The Honda Rubicon 500 typically delivers about 28 horsepower in its classic 500cc form; newer Rubicon models moved to a 520cc engine with around 40 horsepower.
The Rubicon line spans multiple generations, with horsepower figures that vary by year, trim, and tuning. This article provides a concise, up-to-date snapshot of what horsepower you can expect from the 500-class Rubicon lineup, including how it evolved over time.
Horsepower by generation and variant
Note: The following figures are typical horsepower estimates for common Rubicon 500-class engines. Actual numbers may vary by model year, trim, and maintenance condition.
- Early 500cc Rubicon (TRX500 family): about 28 horsepower.
- Modern 520-class Rubicon (TRX520/Rubicon 520, introduced in the late 2010s): around 40 horsepower.
The horsepower figures illustrate the evolution from the original 500cc engine to Honda’s larger-displacement 520cc design. The higher displacement generally yields increased peak power and better overall performance, especially in hills and when carrying gear.
What this means for riders
For riders choosing between generations, the 28 hp Rubicon 500 is typically sufficient for utility tasks, trail riding, and lighter work, while the 40 hp Rubicon 520 delivers stronger acceleration, higher top speed, and improved climbing ability, particularly when paired with modern CVT tuning and differential options.
Summary: The Honda Rubicon 500 commonly produces around 28 horsepower in its legacy 500cc variants. In later Rubicon models that moved to a 520cc engine, horsepower is typically around 40 hp, reflecting a meaningful performance upgrade in the same ATV class.