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The Honda Rancher 420 is a popular model of all-terrain vehicle(ATV) that that is commonly used for yard and farm work. Honda built the Rancher 420 ATV to provide the best riding experience, regardless of the environment, and succeeded in part thanks to its independent 4×4 rear suspension. The wheelbase is a sturdy 49.9″ wide which is adequate for maintaining stability on a crooked landscape. There are six different models of Honda Rancher 420, described below.
The Honda Rancher 420 is available in several colors including a dark green that I think looks fantastic, as well as the traditional Honda red and popular camo. Dependable and durable performance allows you take it for a trip in the woods or to use the ATV for a number of chores on the farmstead. These features, and many others, have given the Honda Rancher 420 a trustworthy reputation and strong following over the years, it remains competitive on the for sale and after-market classifieds.
The Rancher 420 is manufactured with a 420cc horsepower single-cylinder engine. Liquid cooled, electronically fuel injected and ready to ride, it has the ability to race down the trail at a good speed. Honda Rancher riders can easily tear across a few miles of rugged landscape and still be ready to work when it gets there. Honda makes sure that expectations are met or exceeded and I don’t often hear people have something negative to say about this great quad. Numerous improvements, such as frame and chassis upgrades, have resulted in the development of a longer travel suspension. This in turn has had a positive impact on the performance of the Honda Rancher 420’s newer models.
This road beast also comes with a changeable drive system. You get to decide whether you will use a 2 wheel drive or a 4 wheel drive. The Honda Rancher 420 can be adjusted to the different terrains and conditions. To gain traction, Honda Rancher 420s utilize distinct tires, the front tires are 24×8-12, and the rear tires are 24×10-11 in size.
This is one of the primary features that set the Honda Rancher 420 apart during day to day usage.
The transmission determines the kind of extra features your machine will end up having. So far the Honda Rancher has three different types of transmissions. There is the manual or foot-shift transmission, the electric shift (ES) or the Electric shift program (ESP) and finally, there is the Dual clutch transmission (DCT) or the automatic transmission. These different transmissions are found in different Honda Rancher 420 models and is the focal feature that makes them completely different from each other. Below is a deep dive into the different types of transmissions.
This type of transmission is rare, and so it is hard to come by a Honda Rancher 420 that utilizes it. This doesn’t mean that they are extinct. There are some few of these ranchers around, and there are also riders who have mastered their art and can perfectly maneuver the tracks incredibly well without any problems. The transmission is usually semi-automatic, and it doesn’t come with a clutch.
This is why most riders tend to avoid the Honda Rancher 420 with this transmission. One of the most common Honda Rancher 420 model with the manual or foot-shift transmission is the TRX420FM1 model.
This is one of the most popular transmissions that is preferred by a number of riders. Unlike the manual gearbox, it ensures that you have an easy time shifting gears. This is a type of transmission that you will need if you are a rider who loves making sporty style turns to entertain the crowd. It can be used by someone who has a leg problem or someone who has often finds it hard using legs to shift gears.
With ESP, you get to enjoy a very significant component known as an Electronic Control Module or ECM. This module monitors counter-shaft speed, engine rpm, shift spindle angle as well as shift drum angle. When going at speeds more than 2 miles per hour, a neutral lockout function will engage. This makes braking to become easy.
It often comes in handy when descending down the hill.
When the engine is above 3000rpm, you cannot shift the transmission from neutral to first gear or reverse gear thus very easy to handle throughout. In the toolkit, there is a backup shift lever which will enable you to turn your transmission to manual in case the ESP fails. TRX420FE1 is the type of Honda Rancher 420 model that uses ES or ESP for transmission.
This is a very unique type of transmission that is utilized by the 4×4 Honda Rancher 420s. It is more sophisticated than the other forms of transmission and also the latest. It comes with an updated dual shift logic that makes the ATV to adapt to different terrains. It also enables the rider to easily shift gears regardless of the terrain he is riding on. The fact that this transmission is fully automated means that the vehicle knows how to engage the right gear at the right time. DCT is the best transmission designed to increase the response of the Honda Rancher 420, reduce lagging of the engine and also ensure that the rider is always comfortable riding.
DCT also makes use of a great technology that has a two-piece main shaft and two clutches. The first clutch drives the initial main shaft gears. They consist of the first, third and fifth gears. The second main shaft is placed over the initial main shaft and makes use of the second clutch. It is composed of the second, fourth and reverse gears.
To ensure smooth transmission, all the gears are pre-shifted before power is supplied. The DCT transmission ensures fast gear shifting while maintaining the consistency of the vehicle’s shaft. The user also has an option to use the push-button gear change mode. The five automatic gear transmission with reverse included makes DCT reliable, durable, and very convenient. The Honda Rancher 420 models that utilize DCT include TRX420FA2, TRX420FA5, and TRX420FA6.
Honda Rancher 420 costs different amounts depending on the models. There are those that are a bit cheaper than others but with less features.
There are others that are very expensive with a number of features such as all rancher 4×4 DCT IRS features as well as electric power steering included. The price range is usually from $5,000 to slightly above $9,000. These prices also tend to vary depending on the dealer you will purchase the vehicle from.
See also
There are several popular places that can help you find and buy your Honda Rancher 420. For new Honda Rancher 420 you can buy them from Honda dealers all over the country. Some of my favorite places to pick up a used ATV, besides the traditional ebay, craigslist, facebook and kijiji for you Canadian riders is motorsportuniverse.com, ATV Trader and Tractor house, among many other places. Keep in mind that different traders have different pricing systems so it’s best to compare.
Read my ATV price guide for more information about ATV values.
The stock Honda Rancher 420 has a top speed of approximately 55mph.
A rev limiter prevents the ATV from going faster. These speeds, however, can change depending on the rider’s weight, the nature of the landscape and the Honda Rancher 420 model you are riding. With a superior model, a lighter rider and a flat terrain you can reach the Rancher 420’s top speed.
The Rancher 420 can hold up to 2 quarts. It’s best to add a little less than this, let it run for a minute, and then check the oil level before adding more. Do not overfill! It’s also a good idea to perform an oil and filter change regularly as well as before you plan to leave for an extended trip. Proper maintenance is key to keeping your Honda Rancher working well for a long time.
Honda Rancher 420s typically have their VIN located between the headlights and right at the center of the front frame. Older models may have it near the left foot area on the frame and others may have it on the frame opposite of where the exhaust is.
Note: if your Rancher 420 has a winch you may need to partially remove it to access the VIN.
For more about VIN information check out my ATV VIN Number guide.
Yes, there is a performance series exhaust that can boost effective horsepower and torque. I don’t recommend trying to add many performance parts besides the exhaust and tires, however, or you will likely reduce the lifespan of the engine and/or transmission. It’s a great quad right out of the crate, stock.
By Chris Yeloushan
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The Honda Rancher 420 4X4 is one of the most consistent and dependable utility ATV’s on the market.
With an MSRP starting at $6,399, I chose to test the Honda 5-speed foot shift model without power steering in olive green to demonstrate how easy it can be to get onto an ATV and have the time of your life social distancing without having to empty your wallet.
The Rancher is powered by Honda’s 420cc longitudinally mounted, liquid cooled SOHC, fuel injected engine producing 26hp at a top speed of 51 mph. It is both light and nimble for riders of any size weighing only 615lbs. The turning radius is an impressive 9.2ft. Measuring in with an overall length of 82.8” and width of 47.4” you can get the Rancher through the tightest trails and into almost any pick-up truck or small utility trailer by yourself.
The front suspension is an independent double wishbone setup resulting in 6.7” of travel. The rear suspension on this foot shift model has the classic swingarm and single shock that’s also 6.7” of travel. The overall ground clearance with the swingarm configuration is 7.2”. If you want another 2” of overall wheel travel and ground clearance, you have to upgrade to the Rancher AT Independent Rear Suspension model.
The tires are Maxxis M973 AT’s 24 x 8-12 on the front and 24 x 10-11 on the rear with the standard factory steel black wheels. The driveline is equipped with Honda’s TraxLok limited slip torque sensing front differential with front and rear solid axle driveshafts. The 4WD system allows you to easily switch from 2WD limited-slip on the fly using the large hand-lever just in front of your left knee. Most competitors use a push-button switch on the handlebars. However, there are no belts to worry about as the longitudinally mounted engine delivers power directly to the ground from the input of the throttle and lifting up and down of your left foot whether you are in 2WD or 4WD.
The front brakes are dual hydraulic disc calipers up front while the rear has a single sealed mechanical drum mounted on the right rear wheel. While this rear brake system has been tried and true since Honda began building ATV’s, I would prefer discs on all four wheels. The parking brake is easily accessed on the left brake lever. The base Rancher comes with the manual foot-shift, 5-speed with reverse. On the foot-shift model, it requires you to use the left handlebar reverse shift actuator in conjunction with the foot-shift to put the Rancher in reverse. While it’s not my favorite, after a few times you get used to it.
2020 Honda Rancher 420 4×4
Getting onto the Rancher, you quickly notice the low seat height of only 33.7 inches with an overall height of 46.2 inches. Honda’s large full floorboards and slotted steel foot pegs gives you plenty of stability during long trail rides or having to maneuver your body through any type of terrain. For 2020, the front and rear racks have stronger steel construction with a larger flat area that can now integrate with their new Pro-connect storage system to easily attach and detach Honda accessories. The front payload capacity is 66lbs while the rear holds 133lbs. The Rancher also includes a new water-resistant front storage box just behind the large front bumper that has 1.9L of storage for your mobile device or other small items that need to be protected from the elements.
When you are ready to tow a trailer, the Rancher tows 848lbs with the factory installed hitch. One advantage of the swingarm configuration is that it places the load of a trailer or heavy gear on the back rack directly to the solid axle rather than the shocks when you use it for work rather than play. All you need to add is your trailer ball using the factory mount.
Honda relocated the Rancher’s fuel tank filler from the center to the right fairing making filling up the 3. 9gallon fuel take simple without unnecessary spilling on the seat as past Honda models. The reserve tank is a generous 1.3 gallons.
The large digital LCD display provides a clear overview of the vehicle status including the odometer, trip-meter, hour-meter, clock, engine coolant temperature, gear indicator, 4WD indicator, and fuel gauge giving you everything you need to manage your riding experience.
Overall, the Rancher delivers any rider whether novice or experienced plenty of comfort, power and reliability to enjoy years of work or play at a very competitive price point.
Pros:
Cons:
When you’re ready to find the 2020 Honda Rancher 420 4×4, be sure to check us out at Gorollick.com. You can:
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Take a look at The Complete Guide to the Best ATVs of 2019 for more helpful information!
More on Chris
Chris is a Vice President of Strategic Accounts at Rollick. Born and raised in his family’s outdoor recreational dealerships, he has been involved in everything outdoors since he could walk. His first dirt bike was a 1980 Honda Z50. Since then, he has ridden and owned everything including dirt bikes, ATV’s, SXS, and PWC’s. You will probably spot him on any given Sunday tearing up the trails of the Ocala National Forest. His passion over the last twenty years has been focused on helping dealers increase sales and build customer loyalty through America’s top consumer brands. Some of the top brands include Sam’s Club, AAA, Allstate, USAA, GEICO, Progressive, and Walmart. Members of these organizations are loyal and looking for a more efficient and straightforward buying and ownership experience. Chris has been dedicated to connecting members of these organizations with the nation’s top dealerships.
Check out more reviews and test rides from Chris:
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In the beginning there was a word. And at the beginning of the emergence of ATVs - a bicycle. Back in 1853 in New York, the first copy of a four-wheeled bicycle was presented at an exhibition, combining the convenience of a bicycle with excellent stability. It appeared as an answer to some bicycle problems - it was possible to install a passenger seat on it, in addition, speed and directional stability increased.
In principle, the first cars with steam engines can be called ATVs, and the first of them with an internal combustion engine was the Ford Quadricycle, which even had this word in its name. Of course, cars noticeably pushed the old designs out of the market, but in areas where tourism or even agriculture was developed, they were still in demand.
The peak of popularity of ATVs is associated with the oil crisis of the 70s of the last century. Then at once two competing companies, Honda and Suzuki, began a massive seizure of the entertainment market. True, at first the cars for beach “racing” were three-wheeled, and, accordingly, it was possible to roll over on them at a time. Nevertheless, tricycles have gained particular popularity on the beaches of California, as they have proved to be surprisingly convenient for moving on the sand. From practical, ATVs quickly turned into beach entertainment, their production grew, and their technical characteristics improved. Three wheels, low horsepower, four-speed gearbox, low-pressure tires - that's what the first model from Honda looked like. But the fourth wheel was “screwed” to Suzuki, but still thanks to Honda. It's all about the patent for the tricycle, which forced competitors to come up with a new structure and arrangement of parts. Suzuki decided, "We're going the other way," and added another wheel.
Now the "quad" belongs to the category of vehicles that are in special demand among lovers of trips to nature - hunting, fishing or just for a walk. ATV, or All Terrain Vehicle, is a vehicle with maximum cross-country ability.
They are used not only for trips to nature, but also for purely utilitarian purposes. Manufacturers equip them with additional equipment that allows the use of an ATV in a summer cottage, in particular, for the transport of goods. It really combines the best features of a jeep, motorcycle and tractor.
But these all-terrain vehicles are especially in demand among fans of extreme sports. In our country, this type of transport should generally be out of competition - it was not for nothing that the favorite phrase “tanks are not afraid of dirt” appeared. It is precisely by their "all-weather" and versatility that ATVs compare favorably with other motor vehicles, the operation of which has a pronounced seasonal nature.
Hunters and fishermen get on it to areas with fearless animals and fish. It is driven by “youngsters” who have grown out of pedal cars, but who are still forbidden by their mothers and grandmothers to ride a motorcycle. The owner of a cottage outside the city, if necessary, can independently clean the road to the house, remove garbage, and bring building materials. If there was money for additional equipment...
ATVs are versatile, but have individual features. Therefore, their entire range can be divided into several types.
Junior class . They are extremely easy to operate, they have not only a mechanical, but also an automatic transmission. Small in appearance and not particularly powerful (10-20 hp), they are able to climb steep slopes and carry loads. True, the speed is only 60 km / h. But they are economical. And a dosed release of adrenaline is guaranteed.
Sports . These are distinguished by more power, strong suspension and a higher price. With 60 passport "horses" "sport" can accelerate to 150 km / h. It is better not to sit down on this without thorough preparation. Reset.
Utility ATV . These "quadrics" are initially focused on use in the economy, and not only in agriculture. The presence of trunks in front and behind allows you to carry a lot of all kinds of cargo. A high-torque volumetric engine and four-wheel drive make it possible to use it not only as a truck, but also as a tractor. Moreover, more than enough of any attachments are produced for them.
Of course, any classification is conditional. With regard to "quadrics" this is also true, since the same ATV, assigned to a particular class, combines the features inherent in a model of a completely different purpose.
So what to choose?
Let's start with the engine. The more powerful it is, the better. True, cooling is a little more complicated. All cooling systems are used in ATVs: air (sometimes forced), water and air-oil. The most convenient and reliable motor is water-cooled: "boiling" is practically eliminated, the temperature regime is constant. But unlike structurally simpler air systems, such systems (well, the entire ATV) are much more expensive.
The same proportions are kept in the transmission. On the simplest and most inexpensive models, they install what is cheaper - transmissions with automatic centrifugal clutch. Those that are more expensive and more powerful are equipped with a variator that is more convenient, more reliable, “more patient” with loads, but also more expensive to manufacture, which narrows the range of machines on which it is used. And a manual (5- or 6-speed) gearbox can be considered a compromise option, since it is installed with equal success on cheap "all-terrain vehicles" and on expensive "sports" with forced engines. In both cases, the use of a manual transmission is justified. When “sticking” a low gear, a utilitarian “quad” is able to pull itself out of a quagmire or crawl onto a steep slope. On sports models, this is generally the only way to move in the desired mode.
Suspension. The cheaper the ATV, the easier it is. Until recently, there was no suspension at all on ATVs, and high-profile tires filled this role. Now these are no longer to be found - almost everyone has a dependent or independent suspension (sometimes both). The front is usually independent. With it, the design passes the potholes softer, clings to the ground more firmly and makes it easier to control. There is no such clarity regarding the rear suspension. If the rear suspension is independent, there is no doubt that you have a very expensive “sport tourist” in front of you. And if you saw only the interweaving of welded iron rods - this is the cheapest "business executive". But it is this suspension that is famous for its reliability and “indestructibility”. Therefore, it is sometimes put on "real" professional ATVs and all-terrain vehicles.
The last thing to focus on is the drive. Rear-wheel drive is often used, but mostly in children's and sports models. For the former, all-wheel drive is an excess, and for the latter, it is exotic. For the rest, all-wheel drive is the norm. It is worth noting one more thing: that ATVs may not have a rear cross-axle differential and there may be a front lock. Both are done to increase cross-country ability.
Riding an ATV is not easy, it's very easy. But the ride itself has its own subtleties: you can’t fill it up in a turn, like a motorcycle, so it’s easier to roll over on it than to hold on. Experienced "ATV-shniks" recommend not to sit in the saddle at speed, but to stand on the footboards! This makes it easier to maneuver, allows you to keep the car in a horizontal position, and on rough terrain it protects the “fifth point” from sensitive slaps. And in order to protect everything else that is attached to it, under no circumstances should you drive without protection! Although utility ATVs rarely travel faster than 60 km/h, there is still a risk of damaging vital organs in the event of an accident.
