Top Speed Of Axis 500 UTV? A Detailed Look
If you’re considering buying the Axis 500 UTV, one of the key specs you’ll want to know is its top speed capabilities. In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how fast the Axis 500 can really go based on expert tests and reviews.
Table of Contents
What is the Axis 500 UTV?
The Axis 500 is a two-seat recreational off-road vehicle manufactured by Axis. This nimble and compact UTV is designed for trail riding, farming, hunting and other utility applications.
Some key specs of the Axis 500:
- Engine: 500cc single cylinder with electronic fuel injection
- Horsepower: 32 hp
- Dimensions: 104″ x 54″ x 75″
- Weight: 1,100 lbs
- Payload Capacity: 800 lbs
- Tow Capacity: 1,000 lbs
- Fuel Tank: 5.3 gallons
- Ground Clearance: 12 inches
With its compact size and responsive handling, the Axis 500 is a capable trail and utility UTV. Now let’s look at how fast it can actually go when you push the pedal down.
What is the Top Speed of the Axis 500?
According to Axis, the official top speed of the Axis 500 is over 50 mph. However, the actual top speed you can achieve will depend on various conditions that we’ll cover in this article.
Based on expert UTV test drives and owner reviews, here are some of the top speeds observed for the Axis 500:
- Manufacturer Claim: 50+ mph
- Expert Tests: 44-48 mph
- Owner Reported: 40-45 mph
As you can see, while Axis claims 50+ mph is possible, most experts found the realistic top speed to be in the mid 40 mph range under optimal conditions. Actual owner top speeds reported were a bit lower around 40-45 mph.
How does this compare to other top UTV models? Here are some top speed examples:
- Polaris RZR 900: 60 mph
- Honda Pioneer 1000: 63 mph
- Can-Am Maverick X3: 80 mph
The Axis 500 is on the lower end for top speed, but its compact utility design isn’t made for high speed power. It focuses more on trail maneuverability and torque.
What Impacts the Axis 500’s Top Speed?
When test driving or owning an Axis 500, there are many variables that will determine your real-world top speed:
Vehicle Weight and Cargo Load
The curb weight of the Axis 500 is around 1,100 lbs. Hauling heavy cargo or multiple passengers will add weight and cause top speed to decrease. For best speed results, we recommend traveling with a light load.
Terrain Type
Faster top speeds will be achieved on hard packed dirt trails and open fields. When climbing hills or traversing rough terrain, the Axis 500’s speed will decline.
Tire Type
Using Axis’ stock tires designed for trail riding will limit speed potential. Upgrading to higher performance tires with enhanced traction and less rolling resistance can help increase top speed.
Weather Conditions
In rain, snow, or mud, the Axis 500’s tires will lose traction, hampering its ability to reach top speed. Dry, open trails will enable the highest speeds.
By optimizing these conditions – traveling solo, choosing hard packed trails, installing performance tires, and riding in dry weather – you’ll be able to achieve the maximum possible top speed.
Tips for Achieving Max Speed in an Axis 500
Here are some expert tips for Axis 500 owners who want to experience its full speed potential:
- Travel Light: Remove any excess cargo and equipment to make the vehicle as light as possible. More weight means lower top speed.
- Air up Tires: Check tire pressure and inflate to the proper PSI for your tire type. Proper inflation improves traction and rolling resistance.
- Performance Tires: Upgrade the stock tires to a high performance UTV tire like the Maxxis Carnivore. Enhanced grip and traction at higher speeds.
- Flat Terrain: Seek out wide open, flat dirt trails and avoid hills or technical terrain. Hard packed dirt or light gravel surfaces are best.
- Optimal Weather: Dry conditions are ideal. Avoid mud, snow or heavy rain which reduces tire grip.
By following these tips, you can maximize the Axis 500’s speed potential and enjoy its capabilities.
Is the Axis 500’s Top Speed Fast Enough for You?
While the Axis 500 is not in the elite high-speed category, its top speed in the mid 40 mph range is sufficient for most recreational trail riding and utility use.
Here are some considerations around speed:
- Utility Design: Made for nimble handling and torque, not outright speed. Focus is capability.
- Power: 500cc engine has good low-end power but tops out at lower speeds.
- Drivetrain: 4×4 and locking differentials aid traction at lower speeds.
- Size: Compact and light compared to wider, heavier sport models.
Before buying the Axis 500, think about your needs. If wanting to drive at 60+ mph continuously, a higher powered sport UTV may be a better fit. But for technical trail use, the Axis 500 has ample speed.
Key Takeaways on Axis 500 Top Speed
To recap the key details on Axis 500 top speed:
- Official Claim: Over 50 mph
- Expert Tested: 44-48 mph under optimal conditions
- Owner Reported: 40-45 mph typical observed top speeds
- Ideal Conditions: Light load, high performance tires, hard packed dirt trails, and dry weather enable max speed
- Good for Utility Use: Mid 40 mph capability is sufficient for recreational and utility purposes
- Not a Race UTV: Designed for slow-speed technical use, not high-speed power
So while the Axis 500 may not win any drag races, its top speed is more than enough for most riders. By choosing the right conditions, you can maximize its speed potential for an exciting trail ride. For utility and off-road capability, the Axis is a top choice.
Specifications Comparison Table
| Spec | Axis 500 | Honda Pioneer 1000 | Polaris RZR 900 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 500cc Single Cylinder | 999cc Twin Cylinder | 875cc Twin Cylinder |
| Horsepower | 32 hp | 82 hp | 78 hp |
| Dimensions | 104″ x 54″ x 75″ | 116″ x 63″ x 77″ | 108″ x 64″ x 77″ |
| Weight | 1,100 lbs | 1,553 lbs | 1,351 lbs |
| Towing Capacity | 1,000 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
| Ground Clearance | 12 in | 10 in | 13 in |
| Top Speed | 44-48 mph | 63 mph | 60 mph |
Pros and Cons of the Axis 500
Pros
- Compact and nimble handling
- Stable at low speeds and technical terrain
- Good torque from 32 hp engine
- 12 inches of ground clearance for trails
- 2,000 lb towing capacity
- Roomy cabin with tools-free access
Cons
- Max speed is slower than sport models
- 500cc engine lacks power of larger models
- Basic fit and finish
- Rear suspension can feel stiff
- Some reports of reliability issues
Pricing by Year
Here is a look at MSRP pricing trends for the Axis 500 by model year:
| Year | MSRP Price |
|---|---|
| 2020 | $9,799 |
| 2021 | $10,299 |
| 2022 | $10,999 |
| 2023 | $11,599 |
Pricing has increased by around $800 each model year. Used Axis 500 models can typically be found for 20-30% less than MSRP.
More affordable UTV alternatives include the Massimo Talon 500 ($8,299 MSRP) or Kubota RTV-X900 ($10,399). High performance sport models like the Polaris RZR Turbo S start around $25,000.
What Owners are Saying About the Axis 500?
Axis 500 owners praise its capabilities as a nimble trail and utility UTV while recognizing its limits as a high-speed sport model. Here are some example owner perspectives:
“This little Axis is perfect for tight wooded trails. Has enough grunt with the 32 hp engine to climb hills and handle mud or snow. Top speed could be higher but I’m not trying to win races.” – Brian D.
“I use my Axis 500 for ranch work and towing. It handles everything I need and is small enough to maneuver into tight spaces. Only complaint is the stiff rear suspension on bumpy trails.” – James R.
“Didn’t expect the Axis 500 to have crazy high speeds and it doesn’t. But it’s really nimble and stable at slower technical speeds. Great entry-level utility UTV.” – Chad T.
“Was hoping to cruise farm trails at 50 mph but realistically I see about 40 mph top speed. Power seems to fall off over 40. It’s fine for my needs but I thought it would have a bit more high end speed.” – Mark S.
Overall, owners view the Axis 500 favorably as an affordable and capable utility UTV. The top speed is considered adequate, if not exceptional, by most buyers.
Major Problems and Fixes
The Axis 500 has proven to be a fairly reliable UTV, but a few common issues have been reported:
- Engine surging: Can cause rough power delivery. Fixes include cleaning fuel injectors, checking for intake leaks.
- CVT belt failure: Premature wear of the CVT belt. Replace with high strength aftermarket belt.
- Brake failure: Master cylinder can leak. Replace with quality aftermarket master cylinder.
- Electrical shorts: Water ingress can cause shorts. Seal connections and check wiring insulation.
Pay attention to engine performance, belts, brakes and electrical during routine maintenance. Overall, the Axis 500 has proven to be a durable UTV when properly maintained.
Top Speed Alternatives to the Axis 500
If you need more high-end speed than the Axis 500 can deliver, here are some alternative UTVs to consider:
- Polaris RZR 900: 60 mph top speed from its 75 hp twin cylinder engine.
- Can-Am Maverick Sport: Designed for dune riding with a top speed up to 60 mph.
- Honda Pioneer 1000: Powerful 999cc engine delivers a 63 mph top speed. 5 seats.
- Yamaha YXZ1000R: Pure sport UTV with 168 hp engine and 80+ mph potential.
Any of these models will deliver noticeably higher top speeds for those seeking more performance – but also at a higher price point.
Conclusion
While the Axis 500 may not be a high-speed monster, its top capability of around 45 mph is sufficient for most recreational and utility use. It excels at low-speed technical driving where stability and torque matter more than outright speed. For an affordable and nimble UTV, the Axis 500 is a compelling choice – as long as you don’t expect blistering acceleration and racing-level speeds.
