Engine & Drivetrain
Efficient, Durable Engine Design
Powerful liquid-cooled 518 cc engine is longitudinally mounted, allowing direct driveshaft alignment to both the front and rear wheels for maximum drivetrain efficiency. Liquid cooling provides consistent engine operating temperature in extreme conditions for maximum power output and long engine life. Overhead-valve design provides compact engine dimensions for improved ground clearance while maintaining a broad, easy-to-use powerband. Rubber-cushion engine mounting and gear-driven counter-balancer reduce vibration.
Easy and Efficient
Convenient electric starting, with an automatic internal-decompression system, gets you going quickly and easily. Also equipped with a recoil starter as back-up. Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) improves power delivery and throttle response, and increases fuel efficiency for extended range.
Dual-Clutch Transmission
Automatic Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT) provides the compact size and strength of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic transmission (plus no belts to slip, break or burn out). In addition to the fully automatic mode, the DCT transmission also allows riders to employ Honda’s Electric Shift Program (ESP) for easy shifts with the touch of handlebar mounted buttons. Dual-range sub transmission allows you to easily select between high and low range via a conveniently placed lever. The 5-speed Dual Clutch Transmission will operate fully within either range, helping ensure that you can always select the correct ratio for the conditions.
Integrated Electric Reverse Shift Lever
The integrated electric reverse shift lever allows you to select reverse without ever taking your hand off the handlebars. You can even by-pass Neutral; D to R which is ideal for plowing or tight maneuvering areas.
Quiet Operation
A sub-chamber in the air cleaner reduces resonant noise for quieter operation. Stainless-steel exhaust system includes a USDA-qualified spark arrester/muffler designed for quiet operation and long-lasting performance.
Powerful Output
High output 595 watt alternator has extra capacity to help power electrical accessories and to keep personal electronics charged.
Excellent Drivability
Super heavy-duty automatic clutch with low-rpm engagement for excellent drivability and towing capacity.
Tackle any Terrain
2WD/4WD system offers three drive modes: 2WD; 4WD with torque-sensing front differential; and 4WD with locked front differential to optimize traction. The system also features a Speed Override mode that can be engaged when the front differential is locked to allow increased wheel speed under severe conditions, such as deep mud.
Chassis & Suspension
Strong and Lightweight
Durable double-cradle steel frame developed with Computer Aided Engineering is sturdy and lightweight for precise handling and a smoother ride.
Independent Rear Suspension, Excellent Handling
Double A-arm independent front suspension provides 185 mm (7.3 in.) of well-controlled travel, providing a sense of security and control over difficult terrain. Independent Rear Suspension (IRS) design with lower A-arm and upper I-arm features optimized stiffness for improved handling performance, and an ample 215 mm (8.5 in.) of travel. Durable wrap-around guards protect the rear suspension’s lower A-arms when rock crawling. Adjustable spring preload on all shocks allows suspension to be tuned to match varying loads and riding conditions.
Durable Comfort
Aggressively styled Maxxis tires provide excellent comfort and traction. Plastic CV joint boots on the front driveshafts are tough and tear-resistant with sealed steering-knuckle bearings for extended durability.
Strong Stopping Power
Dual front hydraulic disc brakes with large 190 mm rotors provide strong stopping power. The brake calipers feature a built-in scraper system that removes mud and snow from inside the front wheel to help prevent build-up of debris between caliper and rim for consistent braking performance. Inboard rear disc brake is mounted on the rear driveshaft, reducing unsprung weight and keeping the disc out of harm’s way in rugged conditions.
Proven Power Steering
This latest iteration of Honda’s proven Electric Power Steering System (EPS) features even lighter steering effort and reduced kickback for enhanced comfort while maintaining a strong feeling of control.
Additional Features
Bold Bodywork
All-steel full-sized front bumper wraps around the headlights, improving protection and adding to the Rubicon’s aggressive appearance. The bumper also features an integrated mount for an accessory winch. Bold bodywork offers excellent mud and debris protection.
Strong Visibility
Twin-headlight system features 35-watt headlights with focused light distribution for improved visibility after dark. The headlight dimmer switch makes it easy to change between high and low beams to activate the top assist 50-watt light for more illumination when you need it or allowing it to be turned off while carrying a load on the front carrier.
Automotive Technology
The fuel pump derived from Honda automobile technology is mounted in the fuel tank for better heat isolation and increased filter life.
Information at a Glance
Full-function instrumentation gives the dash a modern look while providing information at a glance. The display includes speed, odometer, trip meter, fuel gauge, coolant temperature, clock, gear position indicator, 4WD indicator and even a Maintenance Minder system that notifies when it’s time for service.
All-day Comfort
Substantially larger and thicker than the seats found on more utility focused models, the Rubicon’s seats provide all-day comfort. Textured seat cover is cooler on hot days and provides a more secure feeling, especially against synthetic riding-gear materials. Half-waffle-style hand grips similar to those found on Honda’s off-road motorcycles offer improved comfort while maintaining a secure hold in wet or muddy conditions.
Pro-ConnectTM Rack System. Excellent Load and Towing Capacity
Pro-ConnectTM Rack System for accessories. Mount accessories directly and quickly to the rear or front rack of your Rubicon using easy Pro-ConnectTM Rack System (no tools required). Our purpose-built line of Pro-ConnectTM accessories helps to keep your gear in place and more secure wherever you place your items on the rack while maximizing storage. Front and rear steel-tube carriers feature large steel plates and additional tie-down points for improved load security. Load capacity for the large front and rear carriers is 45 kg (99 lb.) and 85 kg (187 lb.) respectively.
Powerful Towing
Heavy-duty trailer hitch with 600 kg (1,322 lb.) towing capacity.
Multi-Functional
A host of optional accessories allow you to tailor your Rubicon to your needs.
Rugged Design, Convenient Access
Bold bodywork offers excellent mud and debris protection. Clever one-piece tank/side cover design requires no tools for removal, providing quick access for maintenance.