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In-Depth Look at the 2020 Honda Rancher, Foreman and Rubicon ATV Lineup

Sep. 18 2019 Product Spotlight By Van Eiseman

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2020 Honda Rancher vs. Foreman vs. Rubicon: Mega-Improvements to Mega-Reliable ATVs 

This summer during Power Lab 2019, Honda’s powersports dealer experiential event held south of Dallas at TexPlex Park, Honda unveiled its 2020 ATV lineup, which includes important updates to the FourTrax Foreman, Foreman Rubicon and Rancher multipurpose models. Additional multipurpose models making a return are the Recon and Rincon, while the TRX250X and TRX90X sport models also return for 2020.

Made in Timmonsville, South Carolina, Honda’s ATV lineup is the industry’s most popular, offering models that are ready for hard work and serious play, and that are so user-friendly that riders won’t want to climb off. For 2020, the Foreman, Rubicon and Rancher all get an improved reverse lever, making the process of changing directions easier than ever. Additionally, the Foreman and Rubicon both get larger engines for increased power. And, all three now come with racks that readily accept Honda’s new Pro-Connect line of modular cargo accessories.

“Honda’s history in the ATV market is unmatched, thanks in part to a consistently strong lineup of capable, versatile models,” said Chris Cox, American Honda’s Manager of Experiential Marketing/Public Relations. “For 2020, we’re excited to offer significant improvements to our three most important models, which now perform better than ever.”

FourTrax Foreman Rubicon

For 2020, Honda’s extremely popular, do-it-all 500-class FourTrax Foreman Rubicon benefits from more of the very qualities that have long made this model such a popular choice with customers. All Rubicon models still come standard with Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) for exceptional traction and comfort, and they now get a 43cc displacement increase to 518cc, adding power where it’s used most, in the low- and middle-rpm ranges. On non-manual models, engaging the reverse gear is now a simple operation accomplished electronically via a single lever that fits a wide range of hand sizes and can be operated easily and quickly, without the need to engage neutral. Four Rubicon models are offered, three of which come with a high-tech Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), and those three now feature manual-shift override capability so that riders can command gear changes at will, even in automatic mode—enabling use of engine braking for situations like corner entry and descents. (Automatic mode takes over again a few seconds after manual inputs.) The Rubicon models’ front and rear cargo racks now have expanded planar surfaces for more carrying options, and they integrate with Honda’s new Pro-Connect line of modular accessories. Off-road-legal in all 50 states, all Rubicon models get a new front grill, as well as an updated 50-watt LED assist headlight and a 1.9-liter front utility box that can be accessed from the rider cockpit when stopped.

2020 Rubicon 520 Changes:

  • New larger displacement 518cc engine (a 43cc displacement increase) with updated mapping provides stronger power and torque where it’s used most—in the low end and midrange—for quicker acceleration, better ascending and improved hauling and towing.
    • An all-new reverse-gear actuation mechanism for DCT equipped Foreman Rubicon models makes shifting to reverse a one-lever, fully electronic operation that is quicker, simpler and easier for all hand sizes. This simplified process is particularly helpful for work such as plowing snow, when constant shifting between forward and reverse is required.
    • For DCT models, all-new manual-override capability allows the driver to manually change gears even when in automatic mode. (The transmission reverts back to fully automatic mode after a few seconds.) This provides a new level of control, making it possible to downshift on corner entry or upshift on descents, for example.
    • A new shift map for DCT equipped Foreman Rubicon models monitors engine rpm in real time during shifting, not just prior to the shift, to deliver smoother transitions from gear to gear.
    • A 1.9-liter utility box with weatherproof cover is added to the front deck. Designed to keep sundries like phone, map and camera within easy access from the riding position (when stopped), this new storage compartment complements the utility box that is placed within easy reach on the left front fender.
    • Newly engineered front and rear cargo racks provide more area and accept new Honda Pro Connect accessories for smooth integration.
    • All-new line of Pro Connect accessories designed for precise fit, simple attachment with quick-connection latch system, and integrated function.
    • New guards extend the full length of the lower suspension arms for full coverage of the driveshaft and outboard CV joints.
    • Newly redesigned front bumper and grill further emphasizes the Foreman Rubicon’s aggressive stance.

  • 2020 Rubicon Color Options:

    • FourTrax Foreman Rubicon DCT EPS Deluxe: Honda Phantom Camo, Matte Green Metallic
    • FourTrax Foreman Rubicon DCT EPS: Red, Olive
    • FourTrax Foreman Rubicon DCT: Red, Olive
    • FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4×4 EPS: Honda Phantom Camo, Red, Matte Molasses Brown

  • 2020 Rubicon Model Prices: Starting at $8,699 plus standard destination and assembly fees

    • FourTrax Foreman Rubicon DCT EPS Deluxe Price / MSRP: $9,899
    • FourTrax Foreman Rubicon DCT EPS Price / MSRP: $9,399
    • FourTrax Foreman Rubicon DCT Price / MSRP: $8,699
    • FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4×4 EPS Price / MSRP: $8,799
    • Matte Molasses Brown / Phantom Camo $9,299

2020 Honda Foreman 520

The real workhorse in Honda’s multipurpose ATV lineup, the FourTrax Foreman 4×4 is ready to tackle any job—now more than ever thanks to a displacement increase to 518cc that delivers stronger acceleration and improved towing performance. All three Foreman models have swingarm rear suspension that keeps weight low and provides a great, unsprung platform for a tow hitch. For 2020, they have the same new assist light, front utility box, and front and rear Pro-Connect-compatible racks as the Rubicon, and the flagship Foreman 4×4 ES EPS gets the new, simpler reverse lever, which is particularly welcome for jobs like plowing that involve frequent transitions between forward and reverse motion.

Honda mixed it up this year with 2020 Foreman 520 model variations and bringing some back from the dead so-to-say that have been previously discontinued as with the 2020 Foreman 4×4 EPS manual-shift model (TRX520FM2).

2020 Foreman 520 Changes:

  • New larger displacement 518cc engine (a 43cc displacement increase) with updated mapping provides stronger power and torque where it’s used most—in the low end and midrange—for quicker acceleration, better ascending and improved hauling and towing.
  • An all-new reverse-gear actuation mechanism for Electric Shift-equipped Foreman models makes shifting to reverse a one-lever, fully electric operation that is quicker, simpler and easier for all hand sizes. This simplified process is particularly helpful for work such as plowing snow, when constant shifting between forward and reverse is required.
    • A new shift map for Electric Shift-equipped Foreman models monitors engine rpm in real time during shifting, not just prior to the shift, to deliver smoother transitions from gear to gear.
    • An updated, 50-watt LED assist light operates independently of the headlights for additional illumination when needed, but with the ability to be switched off, for example to prevent reflection off of front cargo.
    • A 1.9 liter utility box with weatherproof cover is added to the front deck. Designed to keep sundries like phone, map and camera within easy access from the riding position (when stopped), this new storage compartment complements the utility box that is placed within easy reach on the left front fender.
    • Newly engineered front and rear cargo racks provide more area and accept new Honda Pro Connect accessories for smooth integration.
    • All-new line of Pro Connect accessories designed for precise fit, simple attachment with quick-connection latch system, and integrated function.
    • New guards extend the full length of the lower suspension arms for full coverage of the driveshaft and outboard CV joints.
    • A new Reactor Blue color joins Honda Phantom Camo®, Red and Olive.

  • 2020 Foreman Color Options:

    • FourTrax Foreman 4×4 ES EPS: Honda Phantom Camo, Red, Reactor Blue
    • FourTrax Foreman 4X4 EPS: Honda Phantom Camo, Red, Olive
    • FourTrax Foreman 4×4: Honda Phantom Camo, Red, Olive

  • 2020 Foreman Prices: Starting at $7,399 plus standard destination and assembly fees

    • FourTrax Foreman 4×4 ES EPS Price / MSRP: $8,349
    • FourTrax Foreman 4X4 EPS Price / MSRP: $8,099
    • Phantom Camo $8,599
    • FourTrax Foreman 4×4 Price / MSRP: $7,399
    • Phantom Camo $7,899

FourTrax Rancher

No ATV is offered in more variations than Honda’s FourTrax Rancher, and no ATV has been sold in greater numbers. With no fewer than eight different models offering myriad combinations of transmission (automatic DCT, Electric Shift ProgramTM and manual), rear suspension (swingarm and independent dual arm) and steering types—plus two- and four-wheel drive—the 420cc Rancher family packs maneuverability and muscle into a tough ATV that is ready for any activity. All Ranchers receive the new Pro-Connect-compatible racks and front utility box, and the two automatic transmission types (DCT and ESP®) get the improved reverse lever and manual-override capability.

2020 Rancher 420 Changes:

  • An all-new reverse-gear actuation mechanism for Electric Shift-equipped Rancher models makes shifting to reverse a one-lever, fully electronic operation that is quicker, simpler and easier for all hand sizes. This simplified process is particularly helpful for work such as plowing snow, when constant shifting between forward and reverse is required.
  • For DCT models, all-new manual-override capability allows the driver to manually change gears even when in automatic mode. (The transmission reverts back to fully automatic mode after a few seconds.) This provides a new level of control, making it possible to downshift on corner entry or upshift on descents, for example.
  • A new shift map for DCT- and Electric Shifting-equipped Ranchers monitors engine rpm in real time during shifting, not just prior to the shift, to deliver smoother transitions from gear to gear.
    • A 1.9-liter utility box with weatherproof cover is added to the front deck. Designed to keep sundries like phone, map and camera within easy access from the riding position (when stopped), this new storage compartment complements the utility box that is placed within easy reach on the left front fender.
    • Newly engineered front and rear cargo racks provide more area and accept new Honda Pro Connect accessories for smooth integration.
    • All-new line of Pro Connect accessories designed for precise fit, simple attachment with quick-connection latch system, and integrated function.
    • New guards extend the full length of the lower suspension arms for full coverage of the driveshaft and outboard CV joints.

  • 2020 Rancher Color Options:

    • FourTrax Rancher 4×4 AT IRS EPS: Honda Phantom Camo, Red, Moose Brown
    • FourTrax Rancher 4×4 AT IRS: Red, Olive
    • FourTrax Rancher 4×4 AT EPS: Honda Phantom Camo, Red, Active Yellow
    • FourTrax Rancher 4×4 EPS: Honda Phantom Camo, Red, Olive
    • FourTrax Rancher 4×4 ES: Honda Phantom Camo, Red, Olive
    • FourTrax Rancher 4×4: Honda Phantom Camo, Red, Olive
    • FourTrax Rancher ES: Red, Olive
    • FourTrax Rancher: Red, Olive

  • 2020 Rancher Prices: Starting at $5,499 plus standard destination and assembly fees

    • FourTrax Rancher 4×4 AT IRS EPS Price / MSRP: $8,199
    • Phantom Camo $8,699
    • FourTrax Rancher 4×4 AT IRS Price / MSRP: $7,499
    • FourTrax Rancher 4×4 AT EPS Price / MSRP: $7,699
    • Phantom Camo $8,199
    • FourTrax Rancher 4×4 EPS Price / MSRP: $7,199
    • Phantom Camo $7,699
    • FourTrax Rancher 4×4 ES Price / MSRP: $6,799
    • Phantom Camo $7,299
    • FourTrax Rancher 4×4 Price / MSRP: $6,499
    • Phantom Camo $6,899
    • FourTrax Rancher ES Price / MSRP: $5,799
    • FourTrax Rancher: $5,499
  • The Rincon, Recon, TRX250X and TRX90X models all remain the same for 2020 as the previous model year.
    Whether you’re looking for a full or mid-size ATV for work or play, the 2020 Honda Rancher, Foreman and Foreman Rubicon ATV models host an impressive amount of upgraded features sure to fit most every rider need.

Schedule an appointment today at Beaverton Motorcycles to check out the new Honda ATVs! We proudly serve customers throughout the greater Portland, OR area at our Tigard dealershiop.