Torrance, CA: With the addition of the all-new 2015 Pioneer 500™, Honda adds a heavy dose of fun to its line of side-by-sides. The Pioneer 500 carries two people to off-road adventures, is perfect for chores on the farm or a relaxed trail ride out in the country and it’s packed with Honda’s famous quality and durability at a suggested retail price of $8,499.

“My first drive in the Pioneer 500 was an eye-opener,” said Lee Edmunds, Manager of Motorcycle Marketing Communications. “It’s really fun to drive, and the paddle shifters bring a whole different kind of experience that helps make it a blast. If you’ve been thinking about a side-by-side purchase, the Pioneer 500 will definitely put a grin on your face whether you’re taking care of jobs around your property or taking off on a weekend adventure.”

Only 50 inches wide, the Pioneer 500 fits on trails that impose width restrictions, as well as in the bed of a full-size truck. A modest 73.1-inch wheelbase helps return responsive handling and a tight turning radius of only 13 feet.

Designed by Honda R&D in Ohio, and built at Honda South Carolina (HSC) in Timmonsville using domestically and globally sourced parts, the Pioneer 500 is powered by Honda’s proven 475cc four-stroke engine. This powerplant pumps out plenty of low-end torque along with a smooth, fun-to-use powerband. The five-speed gearbox with reverse uses an electric shift system featuring paddle shifters mounted on the steering column.

Thoughtful touches include a door/net setup that opens together as one unit—an ingenious and simple design. Inside, there’s a roomy and comfortable bench seat for the driver and passenger. The Roll Over Protection Structure (ROPS) meets OSHA requirements, and driver and passenger have three-point Emergency Locking Retractor (ELR) seat belts.

There’s also a full line of more than 40 Honda Genuine and Signature Accessories that allow owners to configure their Pioneer 500 to meet their specific needs right off the showroom floor.

With many people entering the growing side-by-side market, Honda now offers an all-new option to its Pioneer line. From long-time off-road enthusiasts to new side-by-side drivers, the compact, fun and affordable Pioneer 500 will become an instant favorite.

For more information, visit http://powersports.honda.com/2015/pioneer-500.aspx.

About American Honda
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. was established in 1959 and is the sole distributor of Honda motorcycles, scooters, ATVs and side-by-sides in the U.S. The American Honda Motorcycle Division is responsible for the sales, marketing, and operational activities for these products through authorized Honda dealers. For more information on Honda products, go to www.powersports.honda.com.