P500 Hopes for 2018 model...

SChilla

SChilla

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I am new to the forum. I don't own a pioneer or any sxs yet. I have 2000 recon 250 that I got a year ago, clean and well cared for. I'm a fan of atvs more than sxs however I have a 4 year old autistic son that loves rides on the atv but he is getting big and is a hand full to hold onto. I've been eyeballing the 500 for a while lately. I'm not ready to buy yet so that brings me into what r possibilities for 2018 year improvements/additions? I've been reading on here quite a bit, lots of good info. Thanks
 
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lonewolf

lonewolf

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I came to this forum in a similar situation, where I was/am researching the Honda P500, and found this forum. I was eager to get one since after this past hunting season. Just I was all ready to get one, when a deal came up on a nice used boat, like I've been looking for, that I couldn't pass up, so I bought it. Now I am taking a little time, to put the moneys back together, since I'm not wanting to finance this purchase.

So, I have had the same question, on what possible changes are coming for the 2018 P500? My first impression of the P500, was that I really like the compact size, and the idea of control of the transmission, and shifting gears, when I want. The only deal breaker for me, was the fact that it doesn't have a bed! That is one of my favorite features of SxS's in general, but it has none.

After researching here and on the internet everywhere, seeing what others have done with custom bed ideas, boxes, toolboxes, baskets, etc, I can see where this is no longer an obstacle for me, and I think I have that part covered. About that time, I was debating between the 2016 leftovers, and the 2017, with the new AT/MT transmission options, I was unsure again. At this point, most 2016 models are gone, and I've had a chance to test drive the 2017, with the AT/MT options, and I think I like the ability of having both.

So here is where I stand now. Do I buy one soon, or at this point, at least wait for the announcement of changes to be made on the 2018 models, before I pull the trigger on my P500. I'm thinking this may be my best option, since my timeline is to have one, before next hunting season in fall. I'd like to give myself a little time to have the accessories and modifications done, before hunting season though.

I'm thinking I may wait for the changes in 2018, to be made public, before I buy. I'm guessing that will be in mid summer, maybe someone can give a better prediction though? I'm starting to think it's going to be minimal changes though. Possibly just color changes as mentioned. At this point, I'm not sure if a factory bed is ever going to be in the works, as it seems, people have so many preferences and like the flexibility of what they want to do with the rear rack.

Good luck with yours!
 
sgerksinwi

sgerksinwi

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I can't say a lot of the options for the 18's.
But I would like to say that you are thinking about your son safety..
The P5 with seat belt,roll cage,safety nets would make the P5 a winner!!
Good luck on the purchase whatever you decide.
[HASHTAG]#Keepurkidssafe[/HASHTAG]
 
solrus

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Only one improvement that most desire is front diff lock. Just wait for until Fall 2017. I bought mine in 2015, so far it got me where I wanted to . With track system Im working on now, might get me even further. :)
 
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Waldo

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Front diff lock?? What about the rear? Or does the rear lock also and I didnt know it?
 
SChilla

SChilla

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Thanks guys. I figured the diff lock was a big one. And as that as safety the nets will be nice. He likes to wave his arms around. And having a power geared/slow tip speed will be nice so people don't get crazy( as in my oldest son).
 
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pFive

pFive

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Front diff lock?? What about the rear? Or does the rear lock also and I didnt know it?
The rear is always locked. I just came back from Brimstone and followed about 15 RZR 1000's and a few Can Am 1000's and I only went around two short uphill off camber rut filled trails because I hit a big rock with one front tire and could not get over it. One of the Can Am's flipped over when he hit it. I was considering trading it or selling it before this trip, but to be really honest I asked this thing to do a LOT more than it was ever intended to do, and it impressed everyone that spent 3 times as much. Seriously, this rig with air shocks up front and 30" tall skinny tires will run about 9k +/- and it can park right next to a $30,000 RZR on top of that hill.
 
Buford

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Highly doubtful that they will add a front diff lock. The 500 shares the front diff with the 700, and although the 700 has a diff lock, there physically is not room for it on the 500. The diff lock extension would make for a right axle that's about 6-8" long :eek:
 
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gullyjumper

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The rear is always locked. I just came back from Brimstone and followed about 15 RZR 1000's and a few Can Am 1000's and I only went around two short uphill off camber rut filled trails because I hit a big rock with one front tire and could not get over it. One of the Can Am's flipped over when he hit it. I was considering trading it or selling it before this trip, but to be really honest I asked this thing to do a LOT more than it was ever intended to do, and it impressed everyone that spent 3 times as much. Seriously, this rig with air shocks up front and 30" tall skinny tires will run about 9k +/- and it can park right next to a $30,000 RZR on top of that hill.

And yours will out last and have fewer repairs !
 
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solrus

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Thanks guys. I figured the diff lock was a big one. And as that as safety the nets will be nice. He likes to wave his arms around. And having a power geared/slow tip speed will be nice so people don't get crazy( as in my oldest son).


Once you get P500, just change to aftermarket wheels, u can keep same tires, it will add stability and safety .
 
trigger

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I am new to the forum. I don't own a pioneer or any sxs yet. I have 2000 recon 250 that I got a year ago, clean and well cared for. I'm a fan of atvs more than sxs however I have a 4 year old autistic son that loves rides on the atv but he is getting big and is a hand full to hold onto. I've been eyeballing the 500 for a while lately. I'm not ready to buy yet so that brings me into what r possibilities for 2018 year improvements/additions? I've been reading on here quite a bit, lots of good info. Thanks

I have buddies that are sitting on the fence wondering the same thing. I don't think they're going to change much with the 500's, they really don't need to. It's small, simple and bullet proof. A locker addition would be nice. I still think lb. for lb., $ for $, these P5's are the best deal out there.
 
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Waldo

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Okay so I understand the rear is locked for sure in 4x4.
What's the status in 2wd. Is it still locked or limited slip?
 
Mudder

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Consider adding a passenger T bar for him to hold on to, I think someone on this site was making them?? Better floor board protection and a better seat belt harness for younger riders would also be a good thing. Make a helment part of the deal.
 
W

Waldo

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Consider adding a passenger T bar for him to hold on to, I think someone on this site was making them?? Better floor board protection and a better seat belt harness for younger riders would also be a good thing. Make a helment part of the deal.

I have seen the T-bar thing in another post and it looks like a great thing for a passenger.
in the mail today I am expecting Aluminum skid plates and A-arm protectors.
For sure this friday I will be buying Mud Blasters front and rear fender extensions.
I,ve got so much to do and so little time to do them.
My 20 inch light bar is mounted but is not wired in nor have I had the chance to even mount the rocker switches.
I did change the oil and oil filter though. I inspected the air cleaner and its a dirty mess so now I got to clean that air box out and replace the filter. I need to address the gas and differential vent lines...damn I got a lot to do.
 
SChilla

SChilla

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Consider adding a passenger T bar for him to hold on to, I think someone on this site was making them?? Better floor board protection and a better seat belt harness for younger riders would also be a good thing. Make a helment part of the deal.

Well, he is on the serious end of autistic. He won't hold on to anything. He has had brain surgeries and he probably wouldn't like a helmet on his head. He has numerous brain tumors. But a good 5 point harness would probably be best.
 
solrus

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Well, he is on the serious end of autistic. He won't hold on to anything. He has had brain surgeries and he probably wouldn't like a helmet on his head. He has numerous brain tumors. But a good 5 point harness would probably be best.


As long as you go up to 25 mph and smooth driving then no need for extra, but if drive aggressively ,then change bench seat to separate sport seats and 4 point seat belt .
 
RydeAK

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I'm sure the 2018 will go up another $500 to $1000 if they make any significant changes.. Especially diff lock. I think they kinda of already lost their price point. $8500 new was pretty enticing. $9000 now. Get up to $10,000 and you have a lot of options for SXS.

I bought the P500 for a number of reasons, but I nearly pulled the trigger on a Yamaha Wolverine also, new @ $9500.

What I'd really like to do it make some +2 a-arms and driveshafts with some nice shocks and lots more travel. I've made suspension from scratch for the SAE Baja competition back in college but now I don't have the facility/tools.
 
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