With more and more people forming a bond with off roading, the demand for UTVs is now going off the chart. While UTVs were initially used for work-related activities, so many people are now using them for adventure and recreational activities. But with so many UTV models out there, you can easily get lost in your search for the best off road vehicle.
If you’re in the market for a side-by-side utility vehicle, then you’re likely to come across the new 2022 Tracker Off Road 500S. Like any other Tracker model released into the market recently, you may want to ask yourself, is the 500S worth it? And are Tracker UTVs any good?
Well, after testing out the Tracker 500S, we can affirm that it is one of the best and most reliable UTVs out there. The machine comes with a wider feature set and great fuel economy making it more efficient while allowing you to save money and time. So, if you are shopping for a workhorse that can accommodate your day-to-day towing needs, then you’re in the right place.
Tracker 500S Specs (2022 Model)
| Engine specs | Engine type – 4 – stroke single cylinder gas engine Displacement – 443cc Cooling – liquid-cooled Fuel System – Electronic Fuel Injection ( EFI) |
| Chassis specs | Suspension type – Double A-Arm(For both front and rear suspension) Tires – 25×8.00-12 (Front tire) 25×10.00-12 (Rear tire) |
| Transmission | Transmission type – Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) Drive system – 2/4 WD |
| Dimensions | Length – 106.4 in. Width – 56.4 in. Height: 76.7 in. Wheelbase – 72 in. Ground clearance – 10 in. Front travel – 7.5 in. Rear travel – 7.5 in. Cargo box – 500 lbs. |
| Fuel capacity | 8.5 gal. |
| Towing capacity | 1500 lbs. |
| Brake system | 4-Wheel Hydraulic Disc |
This UTV is built with capability and comfort in mind while ensuring that your next adventure is more exciting than ever before. Without further ado, let’s discuss the 500S in detail, including its top features, benefits, probable problems, and more.
Tracker Off Road 500S Review- Top Features
- Top performance engine- The Tracker 500S is not only one of the most affordable UTVs, but it is also equipped with best in class 443cc engine. With this engine, you can count on this vehicle to provide the power you need to get the job done. Furthermore, the engine-cooled engine facilitates great airflow in and out of the cylinder for enhanced engine life.
- Compact body – The Tracker 500S comes in a compact design that makes it easy to maneuver through tight spaces while ensuring a safe ride. Tracker 500S also includes an A-Arm front and rear suspension on the wheel, which allows the wheels to rotate and act independently.
- Powerful cargo box – On top of the compact body, this machine includes one of the best-in-class cargo spaces and several tie-down points where you can store your belongings as you go about your daily work. Its heavy-duty cargo box can accommodate loads weighing up to 500 lbs. to help you get the work done with ease.
- Improved towing capability – The Tracker 500S is not only one of the most reliable UTVs you’ll find, but it also offers enhanced towing capacity. Under favorable conditions, this machine can tow up to 1500 lbs. while delivering unrivaled UTV experience. What’s more, Tracker 500S’s 10 in. ground clearance allows you to maneuver through tough terrains with ease.
- 2/4 WD feature – Much like most UTVs with similar specs, the Tracker 500s comes with a 2/4WD feature that allows you to switch between 2-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive depending on your driving needs. For instance, switching to a 2-wheel drive helps to prevent wear of your front drive system while allowing you to save more fuel. On the other hand, the 4-wheel drive comes in handy when driving under unfavorable conditions since it provides better traction.
- Safety features- Off roading is associated with numerous risks, but this should not deter you from touring around your farm or sightseeing. The Tracker 500S is fitted with multiple safety features to protect the rider in case of an accident. The safety features include a steel tube roll to cushion the rider in the event of a rollover or a turnover. The machine also includes three-point seat belts to hold the rider as well as the other occupant firmly on their seat throughout the ride.
- Convenient hydraulic disc braking system – The design of Tracker 500S includes convenient 4-wheel hydraulic disc brakes, which are not only efficient but also offer superior performance. The brakes are also less prone to wear, thanks to the reduced friction and the omission of a mechanical cable.
Benefits of Tracker 500S in a nutshell;
- Impressive towing capacity
- Easy to maneuver through tight spaces
- Plenty of safety features to ensure comfort while riding
- Relatively affordable when compared to high-end UTVs with similar specs
- Sturdy frame
- Whisper quiet engine
- Heavy-duty storage space for a premium outdoor experience
- A high ground clearance makes it easy to navigate over different obstacles and rough terrains without getting stuck
- Includes a switchable 2WD / 4WD for improved fun on the trail
- Effortless offloading thanks to the availability of lift-assist pistons
- Includes several accessories that you need to get the job done, including taillights and headlights
Tracker 500S problems
Much like any other off road vehicle, you are bound to notice some issues with your Tracker 500S every now and then. Here are some of the common Tracker Off Road 500S problems that you’ll need to keep in mind;
- Engine won start/stalls easily
- Too heavy/stiff handling
- Steering oscillation
- Steering wheel tending to pull to one side
- Impaired steering
- Rapid/uneven tear wear
- Steering noise
- The engine becoming unusually noisy
- Overheating
- Engine lacking power
Most of these Tracker 500S problems are often as a result of incorrect wheel alignment, defective ECM, faulty ignition coil/spark plug, insufficient tire pressure, etc. To troubleshoot these issues, you can begin by adjusting the alignment and see if it will help solve the problem. You may also want to check and adjust the tire pressure on a need basis.
Furthermore, ensure to tighten loose bolts, cap screws, and nuts to avoid causing further damage to your vehicle. In addition, you may want to inspect your UTV for any sign of damage as well as wear and tear. Some of the components that require regular replacements include wheel studs, bearings, shocks, linkage, rims and tires, ECM, fuel injectors, gears, etc.
Tracker 500S top speed
Tracker 500S is built to take on incredibly crazy off road terrains, but this does not mean that it is not designed for speed. While speed is not paramount in such conditions, it is something you may want to factor in when looking to buy an off-road machine.
As a rule of thumb, more power equates to more speed, the good thing is that off-road trails do not impose speed limits. While testing this UTV, we rode it back and forth several times to determine the top speed. Depending on the riding conditions the top speed of 500S is between 40-42mph, but it can go up to 45 mph when riding on smooth trails.
Final Thought
The new Tracker Off Road 500S 2022 model offers outstanding features to help you get the job done. One thing that you’ll appreciate is that 500S matches up well against similar UTVs from competitors. And with a towing capacity of up to 1500 lbs., you can use this machine for any work and fun purposes as well. That’s not all. The 500S is safe to ride and one of the most affordable side-by-side vehicles on the market today.
