I've read some old reviews that complain that the engine braking on the front wheels would not work when going downhill on a 500 HO.

Is that still true on the 04 model? In other words, what's your experience: Does the engine braking work well on the front wheels?

 

Engine braking only works on the rear wheels ... and works best when in low gear, in high i've had the rear wheels lockup when going down hill.