Buyers Guide: 2022 Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4

The FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4 Automatic DCT EPS Deluxe in Matte Metallic Blue.

Ups
Powerful 518cc liquid-cooled engine, choice of automatic DCT or manual transmission, TraxLok 2WD/4WD system with locking front differential, legal for sale in California

Downs
Ground clearance below par with 25-inch tires, halogen headlights. Easy fix with even better aftermarket upgrades that we can provide and install for you.

Verdict
Work or play, you can’t go wrong with the versatility and reliability that defines the Honda Foreman Rubicon. Two transmission types, available EPS, and multiple trim and color choices give the consumer the ability to tailor the Foreman Rubicon 4x4 to their own needs.

FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4 Automatic DCT (non-EPS) in red.

Overview

The Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4 can tackle mountain rides, hunting, camping, chores, or just going to get the mail. This versatile machine features independent rear suspension for a softer ride while optimizing traction, and a seat so comfortable you may just never want to get off it. This is one of our favorite Honda 4x4 models with its narrow longitudinally mounted engine, two beltless transmission choices, and Honda’s TraxLok 2WD/4WD system that includes front differential lock.

Updates for 2022
New colorway of Matte Forged Bronze replaces Matte Green Metallic from the 2021 lineup.

The FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4 EPS with five-speed manual transmission in Matte Green Metallic.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

• 2022 Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4 EPS: $8,899–$9,399
• 2022 Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4 Automatic DCT: $8,799
• 2022 Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4 Automatic DCT EPS: $9,499
• 2022 Honda FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4 Automatic DCT EPS Deluxe: $9,999

The FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4 EPS is the only Foreman Rubicon model available with a manual five-speed foot shifting transmission with an automatic clutch and reverse. It also gets EPS and can be had in red color for $8,899, or your choice of Matte Forged Bronze or Honda Phantom Camo for $9,399.

The FourTrax Foreman Rubicon Automatic DCT model is the least expensive trim level, but it’s also the only one that doesn’t include electric power steering (EPS). It does come with Honda’s automatic DCT transmission, which gives you the option of a fully automatic transmission or electronic shift with your thumb. It also comes standard with a high- and low-range subtransmission, handlebar-mounted 50-watt pod light, electronic fuel injection, and independent rear suspension. It’s available in your choice of red or olive color.

The FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4 Automatic DCT EPS is identical to the FourTrax Foreman Rubicon Automatic DCT, except that $700 extra gets you electronic power steering.

The FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4 Automatic DCT EPS Deluxe package adds on your choice of Matte Metallic Blue or Honda Phantom Camo, color-matched suspension, and “contrast-cut” cast-aluminum wheels.

Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 518cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine is longitudinally mounted so there are fewer 90-degree transitions of power throughout the drive system. The dual clutch transmission (DCT) gives you the option of a fully automatic transmission or thumb-selectable electronic shifting with reverse, or you can go with the FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4 EPS model’s five-speed foot-shift transmission with auto-clutch and reverse. Either way, there’s far less power loss with Honda’s direct drive setup than that of the more popular belt-driven CVT transmissions that other competing brands use.

Honda TraxLok lets you select between 2WD, 4WD, and 4WD with the front differential locked. RPM is limited when differential lock is engaged, but can be bypassed with Speed Override mode for extreme conditions like deep mud.

Handling: Steering, Suspension

All Foreman Rubicon models come with independent suspension front and rear suspension. Double A-arms at all four wheels are fitted with preload-adjustable shocks that allow up to 7.3 inches of wheel travel up front and 8.5 inches at the rear. With a full tank of gas, all Foreman models weigh between 700 and 729 pounds, which is light for this class. The weight is also slung low in the chassis, which further enhances corning ability. All but the least expensive Foreman Rubicon model get electric power steering, which goes a long way toward reducing fatigue on all-day excursions.

The FourTrax Foreman Rubicon 4x4 Automatic DCT EPS Deluxe in Honda Phantom Camo.

Brakes

Dual hydraulic 190mm disc brakes up front provide more than enough stopping power for a middleweight ATV. A single 170mm hydraulic rear disc brake is centered and raised high in the chassis to increase ground clearance. Dual hand brake controls give you more control when climbing and descending, and the rear brakes can also be applied via foot lever. A parking brake is incorporated into the left-hand brake lever.

Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility

The seat is a comfortable thick foam under a textured cover to maximize grip. With most of the controls being at the front near the steering it makes for an easy and enjoyable ride. The Foreman Rubicon is also equipped with a 1.9-liter front utility box with plenty of sealed space for personal items.

Payload/Towing

Maximum rack capacity for the front is 99 pounds with the rear rack almost doubling the front at 187 pounds. All trim levels have a maximum towing capacity of 1,322 pounds.

Electronics

A digital meter display includes a Maintenance Minder system that signals when it’s time for service. Other functions include trip odometer, hourmeter, gear-position indicator, fuel gauge, clock, and 2WD/4WD indicator. Headlights could use an upgrade from halogen bulbs to LED.

Ease of Maintenance

Honda always makes maintenance easy by making all fluid filling ports and drain bolts easy to access. The same goes for the intake air filter and radiator inlet. Direct drive transmission maintenance is also much simpler than that of a CVT since there is no belt drive system to have to periodically inspect.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

A one-year factory limited warranty is transferable. Extended warranty terms are available for additional purchase.

Browse our inventory of the Foreman Rubicon!