The 2025 Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 520 is the more comfort-focused version of Honda’s 518cc utility ATV. It combines about 32 hp with selectable 2WD and 4WD, an automatic five-speed dual-clutch transmission and independent rear suspension. At 700 lb and $8,999, it is neither light nor inexpensive, and its 848 lb tow rating trails several rivals. The appeal is a measured work ATV with geared automatic operation and a more compliant rear suspension than the standard Foreman. Our guide to reading ATV and UTV specs explains how transmission, towing and dimensions affect that choice.
The Rubicon uses a 518cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine making about 32 hp. That output is modest beside a 44 hp Polaris Sportsman 570, but it is appropriate for controlled property work and ordinary trail travel.
The single-cylinder engine is not intended to turn the Rubicon into a fast recreational quad. Its strength is predictable delivery at practical speeds. Riders regularly climbing long grades with a trailer or seeking stronger acceleration may prefer a higher-output alternative.
Five-speed DCT and selectable 4WD
Honda’s automatic five-speed dual-clutch transmission is a major distinction. It uses fixed gears instead of a belt-driven CVT, giving the Rubicon a different feel from most utility rivals. Operation remains automatic, so the rider does not need to manage a manual clutch.
Selectable 2WD and 4WD allow the rider to engage added traction when the surface requires it. The dataset does not list a front differential lock or EPS for this generic entry, so buyers who require either feature should confirm the exact trim rather than infer equipment from a photograph or model-family name.
Independent rear suspension and ride
Independent rear suspension is the Rubicon’s defining chassis upgrade over the standard Foreman 520. Each rear wheel can respond more independently to uneven ground, which generally supports comfort and traction on rough trails.
The ATV measures 47.9 inches wide with a 50.9-inch wheelbase and 9.4 inches of ground clearance. That clearance is 1.8 inches more than the standard Foreman, but it remains below the 10.4 inches of the Suzuki KingQuad 500AXi and 11.5 inches of the Sportsman 570. At 700 lb, the Rubicon is also 17 lb heavier than the standard Foreman.
Work capability
The Rubicon is rated to tow 848 lb. That covers a moderate trailer, property supplies and common chores, but the figure is not class-leading. Yamaha’s Kodiak 450 EPS and Suzuki’s KingQuad 500AXi are both rated to tow 1,322 lb in the dataset.
The 3.9-gallon fuel tank matches Honda’s other Foreman and Rancher entries. Actual range depends on terrain, load and speed. Trailer balance, tongue weight and braking room matter before the published maximum is reached.
Who it is for
The Foreman Rubicon 520 suits property owners, hunters and trail riders who want Honda’s geared automatic transmission with independent rear suspension. It is especially relevant for buyers who value controlled operation and ride comfort more than high horsepower.
It is less compelling for maximum towing, aggressive recreational pace or buyers working to a strict budget. This is a single-seat ATV, so it is not designed to carry a passenger. Shoppers should also verify the exact trim if power steering is a requirement.
How it compares
The Polaris Sportsman 570 makes 44 hp and costs $7,499. It weighs 705 lb, has 11.5 inches of clearance and tows 1,225 lb. The Polaris offers more power, clearance and towing for $1,500 less, while the Honda counters with its geared DCT rather than a CVT. Compare their specifications.
The Suzuki KingQuad 500AXi costs $8,749 and makes about 34 hp. It weighs 684 lb, includes power steering in the dataset and tows 1,322 lb. The Suzuki is $250 less, 16 lb lighter and stronger on towing, while the Honda offers a five-speed DCT instead of the Suzuki’s CVT. See the direct comparison.
The Yamaha Kodiak 450 EPS makes about 28 hp and costs $7,699. It weighs 686 lb, has 10.6 inches of clearance and tows 1,322 lb. The Yamaha saves $1,300 and adds listed EPS plus more towing, while the Honda provides more power, independent rear suspension and a geared automatic. Compare the Honda and Yamaha.
Where it sits in Honda’s lineup
The FourTrax Foreman 520 shares the Rubicon’s 518cc engine, 32 hp, 848 lb tow rating and 3.9-gallon tank. It costs $7,499, weighs 683 lb and uses a manual five-speed with electric shift. The Rubicon costs $1,500 more for the automatic DCT, independent rear suspension and added clearance. Compare both Foreman models.
The FourTrax Rancher 420 is the smaller utility alternative at $6,199. It makes 27 hp and uses a five-speed DCT in this dataset entry, but has only 6.9 inches of clearance and the same 848 lb tow rating.
Price and value
At $8,999, the Rubicon costs more than several rivals that offer higher towing ratings or more power. Its value rests on the combination of a geared automatic transmission, independent rear suspension and Honda’s straightforward utility focus.
The premium makes sense when those features are priorities. Buyers focused on specification value alone will find stronger numbers elsewhere, and the standard Foreman saves $1,500 if its manual electric-shift transmission and rear suspension are acceptable.
Pros and cons
The good: automatic five-speed DCT, selectable 2WD and 4WD, independent rear suspension, 9.4 inches of clearance and useful 518cc single-cylinder power.
The catch: only 32 hp, an 848 lb tow rating and a relatively high $8,999 price. The generic dataset entry does not confirm EPS or a front differential lock.
The verdict
The 2025 Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 520 is a refined utility ATV for buyers who value a geared automatic and independent rear suspension more than headline power or towing. Its dimensions and engine suit ordinary property work and measured trail use.
The price is the deciding issue. Several rivals tow more or make more power for less, while the standard Foreman performs similar work at a $1,500 saving. If the DCT and rear suspension are worth that premium, the Rubicon is a coherent choice. Add it to the comparison tool, or browse the full database by power, towing and price.
