2021 Honda Pioneer 520

Michelle Baird | November 3, 2020

The 2021 Pioneer 520 features a larger engine and a dump bed, but it retains the 50-inch width and 73-inch wheelbase of Honda’s popular Pioneer 500.

2021 Honda Pioneer 520 rear

American Honda has released the 2021 Pioneer 520, a bump up from Honda’s smallest multipurpose Side x Side, the Pioneer 500. Compared to the Pioneer 500, the Pioneer 520 has a 43cc-larger displacement, making it more capable for hauling loads or climbing up hills. Its width and wheelbase are unchanged from the 500 and has a tilt dump bed.

2021 Honda Pioneer 520 on worksite

Here is the complete release from Honda:

In a new-product announcement today, American Honda revealed that a new multipurpose side-by-side—the Pioneer 520—will be offered for the 2021 model year.

2021 Honda Pioneer 520 in camo and olive
The Pioneer 520 in Honda Phantom Camo and Olive green
2021 Honda Pioneer 520 in blue and red
The 520 in Reactor Blue and red.

An evolution of the Pioneer 500, the vehicle boasts updates highlighted by a new dump bed that increases its ability to haul loads, welcome news to everyone from hobby farmers to fishing enthusiasts.

2021 Honda Pioneer 520 blue
The tilt bed has built-in D-ring anchors.

Measuring 25.9 inches x 38.7 inches by 9.8 inches, the tilt bed has D-ring anchors and cutouts to accept buckets, milk crates, wood dividers and even cups. The bed is also compatible with Honda’s extensive line of Pro-Connect accessories, including racks, cargo boxes, chainsaw mounts and more, all of which are simple to install and remove.

Compared to the Pioneer 500, the Pioneer 520 has a 43cc larger displacement, the largest in its class at 518cc, making it more capable for hauling loads or scrambling up steep ascents. Improvements were also made to the suspension, which is plusher and more comfortable.

2021 Honda Pioneer 520 on the trails

“Since its 2015 introduction, Honda’s smallest multipurpose side-by-side has proven that impressive performance is possible even in a compact, nimble package,” said Lee Edmunds, Senior Manager of Powersports Marketing for American Honda. “For 2021, the Pioneer 520 features a larger engine and a dump bed, but it retains the 50-inch width and 73-inch wheelbase that have been so popular. Whether customers are looking for an entry-level side-by-side, stepping up from an ATV, or just seeking a vehicle that can work hard and have fun without taking up a lot of room, the Pioneer 520 should be at the top of their list.”

2021 Honda Pioneer 520 dump bed
2021 Honda Pioneer 520 colorways

The 2021 Honda Pioneer 520 is scheduled for release in January and will be available in Honda Phantom Camo, Red, Olive and Reactor Blue. The MSRP is $9,499 for standard color options, and $10,099 for Honda Phantom Camo.

2021 Honda Pioneer 500
The Pioneer 500  gets a price reduction for 2021 and now has an MSRP of $8,499.

While the Pioneer 520 gets the headlines, Honda will also continue to offer the Pioneer 500 as a high-value option for customers who prioritize a good deal and don’t need the updates of the new side-by-side. Placing added emphasis on value, the Pioneer 500 will be available in Red, at a permanent price reduction of $8,499.

Honda’s website has additional information on the Pioneer 520 and Pioneer 500.

 

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