The 5 Best 500cc ATVs (Top Performers in the Class) | Powersports Owner HQ (2024)

500cc ATVs provide a good balance between power and control, as they’re big enough to tackle demanding terrain and heavy workloads yet still manageable for most riders.

Because of this, 500cc models are some of the most popular four-wheelers on the market, for both beginners and advanced riders.

If you’re shopping for a new 500 ATV though, it’s easy to get swamped with options.

So to help narrow down your search we’ve highlighted the best 500cc ATVs on the market from least to most expensive.

By offering an in-depth overview of each model, including its key specs, main strengths, and stand-out features.

Top 500cc ATV Models (Least to Most Expensive)

1. CFMoto CForce 500S EPS

Quick Specs

• Average Cost: $6,000
• Displacement: 495cc
• Engine: Fuel-Injected Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke
• Horsepower: 38 HP @ 6800 RPM
• Torque: 32 Lb-Ft @ 6000 RPM
• Weight: 783 Pounds
• Fuel Capacity: 4.4 Gallons
• Why It’s the Best: Hits a sweet spot for affordability, power, and functionality in the mid-size ATV segment.

The CFMoto CForce 500S EPS is one of the best all-around values in the mid-size ATV segment.

In fact, it’s one of the cheapest 500cc ATVs you can buy, with an average cost of only $6,000.

With a modern, fuel-injected 495cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine, the CForce 500 delivers good power, torque, and efficiency.

It produces 38 horsepower and 32 lb-ft of torque, for a stout power-to-weight ratio.

In terms of pricing, the CForce 500S EPS offers one of the best values and bang for your buck, especially when compared to some of the more popular models like the Polaris Sportsman 570 EPS and the Honda Fourtrax Foreman Rubicon 4X4 EPS.

All told, the affordability, power, equipped features and overall utility capabilities of the CFMoto CForce 500S EPS make it one of the clear standouts in the class.

For more information on the CFMoto CForce 500S EPS, check out CFMoto’s website by clicking here.

2. Hisun Motors Tactic 550 EPS 2-Up

Quick Specs

• Average Cost: $6,600
• Displacement: 546cc
• Engine: Fuel-Injected Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke
• Horsepower: 30 HP @ 6000 RPM
• Torque: 29.5 Lb-Ft @ 5000 RPM
• Weight: 860 Pounds
• Fuel Capacity: 4.5 Gallons
• Why It’s the Best: Affordable comfort, capability, and utility packaged in a mid-sized recreational/utility ATV.

Offering excellent value in the mid-size ATV category, the Hisun Tactic 550 EPS 2-Up carries a price tag of around $6,600, which is thousands less than better-known brands.

The fuel-injected 546cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine generates a respectable 30 horsepower and 29.5 lb-ft of torque, which provides enough grunt for trail riding and utility use.

With a curb weight of 860 pounds, the power-to-weight ratio makes the 550 feel responsive and nimble without being overwhelming.

Ride comfort is better than average on the Tactic 550, thanks to its front and rear dual A-arms, and hydraulic with nitrogen assist shocks.

Allowing the four-wheeler to soak up rough terrain.

Utility functionality is also pretty good for the price point, thanks to its 2,500-pound winch, front and rear cargo racks, and 4.5-gallon fuel capacity.

Add in niceties like electric power steering (EPS), 2WD/4WD drive system, front diff locking for enhanced traction, and large hydraulic disk brakes, and the Hisun Tactix 550 EPS 2-Up punches way above its low price tag.

For more information on the Hisun Motors Tactic 550 EPS 2-Up, check out Hisun’s website here.

3. Polaris Sportsman 570 EPS

Quick Specs

• Average Cost: $6,700
• Displacement: 567cc
• Engine: Fuel-Injected Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke
• Horsepower: 44 HP
• Torque: 38 Lb-Ft
• Weight: 760 Pounds
• Fuel Capacity: 4.5 Gallons
• Why It’s the Best: Handles tough jobs and tricky trails at an affordable price, giving it wide appeal as a budget-friendly do-it-all midsize quad.

One of the most popular 500cc ATVs on the market today is the Polaris Sportsman 570 EPS, thanks to its affordable price and excellent blend of recreational riding capability and utility functionality.

Power on the Sportsman 570 comes from a 567cc single-cylinder 4-stroke engine featuring electronic fuel injection to generate a class-leading 44 horsepower and 38 lb-ft of torque.

To see how much horsepower the average ATV has, check out our blog post “How Much Horsepower Does an ATV Have? (18 Models Compared)“.

This gives the quad enough power to confidently handle just about any technical trails or work tasks, including towing, as this 500cc Polaris can to up to 1,350 pounds.

In addition, the Polaris Sportsman 570 also offers an automatic one-touch AWD/2WD drive system paired with electronic power steering and available Ride Command Plus, which provide on-demand effortless traction and steering even in the most challenging environments.

To learn more about the Polaris Sportsman 570 EPS, check out Polaris’s website by clicking here.

4. Suzuki KingQuad 500 AXI SE

Quick Specs

• Average Cost: $6,800
• Displacement: 493cc
• Engine: Fuel-Injected Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke
• Horsepower: 38.2 HP
• Torque: 34 Lb-Ft @ 5500 RPM
• Weight: 714 Pounds
• Fuel Capacity: 4.6 Gallons
• Why It’s the Best: Combines robust performance with agile packaging to dominate the midsize ATV category at an affordable price.

The Suzuki KingQuad 500 AXI is a very capable 500cc utility sport ATV that provides performance at a budget-friendly price.

Available in several different trim levels, one of the most popular is the KingQuad 500 Axi SE, as it offers additional upgrades including power steering and allow rims, while still keeping the price on the affordable side.

Powered by a 493cc fuel-injected single-cylinder 4-stroke engine, the KingQuad AXI SE puts out a robust 38 horsepower and 34 pound-feet of torque.

Making it more than capable of even the most challenging terrains or jobs, including towing, as this capable 500cc four-wheeler can tow up to 1,322 pounds.

To see how much a standard ATV can tow, check out our blog post “Average ATV Towing Capacity (21 Popular Models Compared)“.

Despite packing some of the biggest power in its class, however, the 500 AXI SE still maintains agile handling, thanks to its independent suspension, coil springs, and gas-charged/oil-damped 5-way preload adjustable shock absorbers.

And when it comes to stopping, this KingQuad AXI has you covered, thanks to twin rotor disc brakes at the front and sealed oil-bathed multi-discs at the rear.

To learn more about the Suzuki KingQuad 500 AXI SE, check out Suzuki’s website by clicking here.

5. Honda Fourtrax Foreman Rubicon 4X4 EPS

Quick Specs

• Average Cost: $8,700
• Displacement: 518cc
• Engine: Fuel-Injected Liquid-Cooled Single 4-stroke
• Horsepower: 28.7 HP
• Torque: 28 Lb-Ft
• Weight: 697 Pounds
• Fuel Capacity: 3.9 Gallons
• Why It’s the Best: The gold standard for 500cc midsize ATVs, thanks to its bulletproof engine, ample low-end torque, and legendary reputation for reliability.

One of the most popular if not the most popular 500cc ATV model is the Honda Fourtrax Foreman, as it’s been a class leader for decades, tracing its roots back to the original Fourtrax in 1986.

Designed specifically for work and those who need to get the most out of their machine, the Fourtrax Foreman Rubicon 4×4 EPS is the culmination of years of four-wheeler innovation and engineering.

While not the most powerful 500 ATV, producing only 28 horsepower and 28 pound-feet of torque, what it lacks in numbers it more than makes up for in durability and reliability.

As the Fourtrax Foreman Rubicon 518cc engine offers strong low-end torque and ample pulling power (1,322 pounds) designed to perform reliably in any condition or environment.

The Honda Foreman Rubicon 4×4 EPS also boasts a robust four-wheel-drive system, making it virtually unstoppable in mud, snow, or sand.

Plus, its superior ground clearance and independent rear suspension give it a smooth ride, even when the ATV is loaded with equipment or hauling heavy payloads.

Whether it’s for heavy-duty farm work, trail riding, or a mix of both, this ATV proves that the true measure of power isn’t just found in horsepower but in unstoppable, all-terrain capability and the sheer will to keep going.

For more information on the Honda Fourtrax Foreman Rubicon 4X4 EPS, visit Honda’s website here.

How We Chose the Best 500cc ATVs

To select the top models in the 500cc ATV class, we evaluated the machines across several key factors including:

Performance

• Horsepower, torque, throttle response
• Speed capabilities – top speed, acceleration
• Towing and hauling capacities
• Power delivery and power band

Ride Quality & Handling

• Suspension travel and adjustability
• Ground clearance for rough terrain
• Stability and maneuverability

Convenience & Utility Functions

• Onboard storage capacity
• Available accessories and attachments
• Additional utility features

Safety & Durability

• Braking performance and safety certifications
• Build construction and durability reputation
• Warranty protection

Cost Value Comparison

• Retail and market pricing
• Feature set and capabilities for the price point

We compared the specifications, capabilities, features, and values of the various 500cc ATV models on the market.

Based on an in-depth evaluation of the criteria above, we selected the top 5 machines that deliver the best performance, utility, ride comfort, safety, and value.

Choosing the ATVs that stand out from the crowd on what matters most to ATV owners in this popular mid-size engine class.

Why Our ATV Recommendations Can Be Trusted

At Powersports Owner HQ, our goal is to provide ATV shoppers with thoroughly researched, objective buying recommendations they can trust.

We have over 20 years of experience across a variety of ATV engine classes and take pride in doing our homework so you get clear, honest perspectives.

Our recommendations factor in comparative specs, expert assessments, and actual owner experiences so you get a complete, unbiased picture of each four-wheeler.

By combining research, test data, specs, and owner input, we spotlight the top all-around options – not just the newest or flashiest models.

Our picks balance power, comfort, features, reliability, and value because we understand how ATV owners use their machines in the real world.

What is a 500cc ATV?

ATVs with 500cc (500 cubic centimeters) engines fall into the popular midsize category, situated between entry-level 300 to 400cc quads and larger 700 to 1000cc models.

500cc ATVs offer an ideal balance of power and capability without being too bulky or unwieldy.

The engine displacement refers to the total volume of the engine’s cylinders measured in cubic centimeters (cc). More displacement generally equals more torque and horsepower potential.

Most 500cc models utilize a single-cylinder, 4-stroke engine that produces between 30 to 45 horsepower and similar torque figures.

Transmissions are usually automatic CVTS (continuously variable transmission systems) with high/low gearing, plus reverse.

With ample muscle for towing 1,000+ pounds, carrying gear, or tackling ascents, a quality 500cc engine supplies brawn without overwhelming novice riders.

The powerplants provide strong low-end pull and reliable performance even under heavy loads.

Benefits of 500cc ATVs

There are many advantages to choosing an ATV in the 500cc class, as you can see below, which is why they’re some of the most popular recreational and utility models available.

• Power & Performance – With up to 45 HP on tap in some 500cc engines, there is ample muscle for towing equipment, ascending tough grades, and handling demanding jobs or trail obstacles.
• Versatility – A robust 500cc workhorse engine with CV transmission, 4WD, accessories, and towing capacity equips 500 models for farm work, property maintenance, hauling game after hunting, exploring backcountry trails, and more.
• Comfort – Plush, long-travel suspension, double A-arm independent suspension on IRS models, wide ergonomic two-person seats, and smooth automatic shifting increase ride comfort for all-day riding over rough terrain.
• Control & Handling – 500 class ATVs strike a balance between heavyweight 700cc utility models and smaller 300cc quads for predictable steering and overall nimbleness for better handling, that instills rider confidence.
• Affordability – Midsize 500cc quads deliver stout performance with key recreational and utilitarian strengths often for several thousand dollars less than larger 700cc+ options, keeping overall cost and maintenance lower.

Factors to Consider When Buying a 500cc ATV

With many models available in the popular 500cc class, it’s important to assess your needs and match those to the four-wheeler’s capabilities by considering the below factors:

• Usage – Determine your primary usage – recreational trail riding, utility work, casual hobby farming, commercial applications, etc. This will dictate priorities like cargo storage, towing capacity, and accessories to equip it.
• Engine Power & Performance – Assess power specs like torque rating, max load capacity, and overall acceleration. Low-end grunt matters for towing or hill climbing.
• Comfort, Controls & Handling – Look for ATVs matching your skill level with intuitive handling. Evaluate ride smoothness via suspension travel, tires, and seating comfort. Ensure controls like steering and brakes suit your riding style.
• Reliability & Durability Reputation – Research models’ reputations for longevity in rigorous real-world conditions. Examine warranty protection, too.
• Terrain – Where will you ride primarily? Ensure adequate ground clearance and traction systems like locker differentials and riding modes (2WD, limited-slip 4WD, locking 4WD) match the environment.
• Cost, Resale Value & Ownership Costs – 500cc ATV sticker prices range from around $6,000 to $10,000. Consider long-term value retention and calculate the total cost of ownership (fuel, maintenance, etc.) when choosing.

Final Thoughts on 500cc Four-Wheelers

In the world of ATVs, the versatile mid-range 500cc class strikes an ideal balance between power, comfort, and affordability.

With powerful single-cylinder engines pumping out upwards of 40 horsepower, robust frames, and suspension for smoothing out rough terrain, today’s top 500cc quads deliver strong performance in midsize packaging.

Whether you’re looking for a recreational trail explorer, a hunting/fishing partner, or an unrelenting assistant reporting for daily ranch duty, 500-class ATVs supply the torque, towing capacities, and accessories needed for the job.

Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers…

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