Suzuki Vinson 500 4×4 Specs and Review 2022

Suzuki Vinson 500: It is highly regarded for its off-pavement capability and reasonable price it was the Suzuki Vinson 500 surprised the whole off-roading community right from the beginning. 

Because of its well-engineered overall design, plush suspension, and soaring low-end grunt, It was often thought of as a true open-class four-wheeler. 

Find out how the quad called “the little 500 that could,” was able to win the hearts and acclaim of enthusiasts and skeptical people alike in this piece.

Suzuki Vinson 500 is a rec/utility ATV that was introduced from 2001 to 2007. With a massive 36-mm Keihin engine, automatic and manual transmissions, 4WD and 2WD modes of operation, and a durable chassis This medium-sized quad was a favorite among enthusiasts and those who had experience.

Find out the Suzuki Vinson 500‘s specifications as well as features and problems. Learn about its remarkable capabilities and find out the impact this four-wheeler from the 500 class had on the current big-bore giants.

Darling of the Crowd

A formidable hybrid that can perform superbly as a professional quad as well as a trail ride the Suzuki Vinson 500 has impressed the general public since its introduction. 

The Vinson was first introduced by Suzuki in Japan in 2001 and then introduced to the North American market in 2002 the Vinson has been incredibly popular in the hands of both aggressive and casual riders. 

The design of the 4×4 was about adaptability – in the field and in the outdoors. It was equipped with a 493 cubic centimeter Keihin power mill with a long-travel suspension, the torquey style, as well as a sporty, rugged style – all for the price of $6,599.

For the seven years, it was in production during its seven-year production run, it was clear that the Vinson 500 series kept busy and launched five (5) trims and 19 models. All models were offered in manual and automatic transmissions.

The special-edition trims were available with Limited Edition and Advantage(TM) camo. Five-speed constant-mesh transmissions weren’t introduced until the second year of production of the car, and LE trims weren’t released until the year 2004.

2003 Suzuki Vinson 500 Specs & Features Engine

Between the beginning and the subsequent year of production for Vinson 500, in the first and subsequent years of production for Vinson 500, its engine and fuel system saw significant improvements. 

The carburetor went from a 34-millimeter Mikuni to 36-mm Keihin from 2003 onwards There was also an incredible increase in the capacity of fuel from 12.5 milliliters, to 19.3 liters. 

The compression ratio also increased between 8.5:1 to 10.2:1 and contributed to the machine a higher fuel efficiency.

2001 Suzuki Vinson LT-A500F/FK	2003 Suzuki Vinson LT-F500F/FK
Engine Brand Name	Mikuni	Keihin
Engine Type	4-stroke OHC
Cylinder Arrangement	Single-cylinder
Carburetion System	Carburetor, MIKUNI BST34SS x 1	Carburetor, KEIHIN CVK36 x 1
Engine Cooling	Liquid cooling
Engine Fuel	Unleaded gasoline of at least PON 87/RON 91 rating, containing < 5% MTBE (Methyl Tertiary Butyl Ether), < 10% ethanol, or < 5% methanol w/ appropriate cosolvents and corrosion inhibitor
Fuel Capacity	12.5L / 3.3 US gal (Reserve – 3.8L / 1 US gal)	19L / 5 US gal (Reserve – 4.2L / 1.1 US gal)
Bore x Stroke Ratio	87.5×82 mm (3.44×3.23 in)
Compression Ratio	8.5:1	10.2:1
Displacement	493 cm³ (30.1 in³)
Valve Clearance Cold Intake	0.002 – 0.004 in
Valve Clearance Cold Exhaust	0.17 – 0.22 mm (0.007 – 0.009 in)
Compression Pressure	Std: 800 kPa (8 kgf/cm², 114 psi)	Std: 1,000 kPa (10 kgf/cm², 142 psi) Limit: 800 kPa (8 kgf/cm², 114 psi)
Horsepower	32.4 hp / 32.8 PS (24.2 kW)
Top Speed	58 – 65 mph (93.3 – 104.6 km/h) – owner’s claim
Starter System	Electric and recoil starter
Air Filtration	Polyurethane foam element
Lubrication	Wet sump
Engine Oil	SAE 10W-40 4-stroke engine oil w/ an API grade of SJ meeting JASO T903 MA, MB standards; Alternatives: SAE 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-50, 15W-40, 15W-50, 20W-50 – depending on ambient temperature
Quantity	W/out filter: 2.3L (2.4 US qt) W/ filter change: 2.5L (2.6 US qt) Overhaul: 3L (3.2 US qt)	W/out filter: 3.4L (3.6 US qt) W/ filter change: 3.6L (3.8 US qt) Overhaul: 4L (4.2 US qt)
Oil Pressure, 60°C (140°F) @ 3,000 RPM	Above: 190 kPa (27 psi) Below: 250 kPa (36 psi)	Above: 120 kPa (17 psi) Below: 160 kPa (23 psi)
Other Lubricants	Differential gear oil: 150 ml (5.1 oz) Final gear oil: 300 ml (9.5 oz) Coolant: 2L (2.1 US qt) – 50:50 or 40:60 water/antifreeze mixture ratio SAE #90 hypoid gear oil (standard) OR SAE #80 (for ambient temp below 0°C or 32°F), GL-5 API grade	Differential gear oil: 370 ml (12.5 oz) Final gear oil: 350 ml (11.8 oz) Coolant: 2L (2.1 US qt) – 50:50 or 40:60 water/antifreeze mixture ratio SAE #90 hypoid gear oil (standard) OR SAE #80 (for ambient temp below 0°C or 32°F), GL-5 API grade

Drivetrain

In the same way, the powertrain of the vehicle also changed from a two-speed automatic to a five-speed constant mesh (inclusive of a sub-transmission that has a speed of 2). 

Shifting is controlled by a uni-plate, wet centrifugal clutch, as well as an automatic shifter that is gated with an all-up shifting sequence.

1 It’s made more user-friendly with a balancer shaft driven by gears with driveline options that can be switched between 2WD/4WD and a limit-slip front differential controlled by a button control. 

This configuration resulted in a more stable gearbox, less prone to tooth wear and damage. The lower-end range was much more suited to use. In addition, it allowed more quiet operations.

2001 Suzuki Vinson LT-A500F/FK	2003 Suzuki Vinson LT-F500F/FK
Clutch	Wet shoe, automatic, centrifugal type	Wet multi-plate, automatic, centrifugal type
Transfer, Transmission Type	Quadmatic™, variable ratio, 1-reverse, 2-speed transmission	5-speed constant mesh, 1-reverse, 2-transfer (2-speed sub-transmission)
Gearshift Pattern	Forward: Hand lever operated Reverse: Hand lever operated	All up (Foot operated)
Drive System	(Cardan) Shaft drive
Primary Reduction Ratio	Variable change (2.555 – 0.706)	2.032 (63/31)
Secondary Reduction Ratio	1.133 (17/15)	N/A
Final Drive Ratio	F/R – 3.600 (36/10)	4.080 (17/15 × 36/10)
Sub-transmission Reduction Ratio	N/A	High – 1.592 (43/27) Low – 2.419 (22/23 × 43/17)
Transfer Gear Ratio	Low – 6.406 (40/16 x 41/16) High – 3.523 (33/24 x 41/16) Reverse – 5.125 (28/16 x 32/28 x 41/16)	Low – 3.090 (34/11) 2nd – 1.750 (28/16) 3rd – 1.200 (24/20) 4th – 0.875 (21/24) Top – 0.724 (21/29) Reverse – 2.636 (29/11)

Ignition

While an electronic CDI with an additional pull-start system is still able to power the vehicle, it’s the timing of ignition and idle speed are is a little slower for models made after the year 2000. 

Although this increases fuel efficiency and mileage it also hinders acceleration and could make the Vinson difficult to begin in cold temperatures. 

Fortunately, the car’s battery charging mechanism and the YTX16-BS battery (view the item on Amazon) will compensate for this possibility of a negative impact.

2001 Suzuki Vinson LT-A500F/FK	2003 Suzuki Vinson LT-F500F/FK
Ignition	Electronic ignition (CDI)
Ignition Timing	10° B.T.D.C at 1,500 RPM	10° B.T.D.C at 1,300 RPM
Idle Speed	1,500 ± 100 RPM	1,300 ± 100 RPM
Spark Plug	NGK CR6E or DENSO U20ESR-N (std), NGK CR7E or DENSO U22ESR-N (cold) Gap: 0.028 – 0.031 in Torque specs: 11 Nm (1.1 kgf-m, 8 lb-ft)
Generator	Three-phase A.C. generator
Generator Max Output	13.5 – 15.5V, 325 W @ 5,000 RPM	14.0 – 15.5V, 325 W @ 5,000 RPM
Fuse	30 Amp (main); 20 Amp (power source); 15 Amp (Ignition); 10 Amp (Hi-Lo headlights, auxiliary)	30 Amp (main); 15 Amp (Ignition); 10 Amp (Hi-Lo headlights, auxiliary, power source)
Battery	12V 50.4 kC (14 Ah)/10 HR, FTH16-BS or YTX16-BS/BS-1 formats
Battery Dimensions (L x W x H)	150 x 87 x 161 mm (6.00 x 3.44 x 6.38 in)

Tires & Brakes

The rear brakes were upgraded with hydraulic discs instead of an expanded drum, enhancing the stopping power of the Vinson. 

The rear and front rims were smaller than the production models of the first year, with the sizes of the tires staying identical. 

If the rubber on your current model needs replacement, GBC Grim Reaper Radials (view on Amazon) is an excellent alternative.

2001 Suzuki Vinson LT-A500F/FK	2003 Suzuki Vinson LT-F500F/FK
Front Tire, off-road/road air pressure	12 x 6.5 AT — AT25 × 8-12, tubeless, 30 kPa (0.31 kg/cm2, 4.4 psi)	12 × 6.0 AT — Dunlop® KT121D AT25 × 8-12, tubeless, 30 kPa (0.31 kg/cm2, 4.4 psi)
Rear Tire, off-road/road air pressure	12 x 8.0 AT — AT25 × 10-12, tubeless, 35 kPa (0.35 kg/cm2, 5.1 psi)	12 × 7.5 AT — Dunlop® KT405D AT25 × 10-12, tubeless, 35 kPa (0.35 kg/cm2, 5.1 psi)
Tire Tread Depth (F/R)	Limit: 4 mm (0.16 in)
Front Brake Type	Disc brake	190-mm Twin disc brakes
Rear Brake Type	Internal expanding drum mechanically operated	216-mm Single disc brake

Suspension

In the Suzuki Vinson 500‘s stainless steel frame, is a suspension that is comparable to the KingQuad 700. 

The ample front and rear suspensions are a major benefit of the 4×4 model, as it has the tiniest 5.9 inches. 

The steering angle was expanded, which results in better vehicle control. If you’re looking to improve your quad’s ground clearance you’ll need a Lifter that is High Lifter 2 Suspension Lift Kit (view on Amazon) These kits already have tie rods.

2001 Suzuki Vinson LT-A500F/FK	2003 Suzuki Vinson LT-F500F/FK
Caster, Trail	3.3°, 17 mm (0.67 in)
Toe-in	7 ± 15 mm (0.28 ± 0.59 in)	7 ± 4 mm (0.30 ± 0.16 in)
Camber	0.60°	0.45°
Steering Angle	Inside 38°, Outside 26°	45° (right & left)
Turning Radius	3 m (9.8 ft)
Front Suspension Type, Travel	Independent, double wishbone, oil-damped coil spring, spring preload 5-way adjustable, 150 mm (5.9 in)	Independent, double wishbone, w/ oil-damped coil springs, 180 mm (7.1 in)
Rear Suspension Type, Travel	4-link rigid axle, oil-damped coil spring, spring preload 5-way adjustable, 150 mm (5.9 in)	Swingarm, w/ oil-damped coil springs, 200 mm (7.9 in)

Dimensions

There’s been little or no change in the size for Suzuki Vinson 500. throughout its production time. 

In 2001 however, the units that are sold from Sweden, as well as Australia, are a little larger and heavier than the ones sold to the rest of the world.

The seat’s height remained within the 33-34-inch range, while capacity for payload remained the same at 172 kg (380 pounds).

2001 Suzuki Vinson LT-A500F/FK	2003 Suzuki Vinson LT-F500F/FK
Length	2,005 mm (79.0 in) 2,050 mm (80.7 in) – E-17	2,095 mm (82.5 in)
Width	1,170 mm (46.1 in)
Height	1,185 mm (46.7 in) 1,175 mm (46.3 in) – E-17	1,200 mm (47.2 in)
Seat Height (Unloaded)	850 mm (33.5 in)	860 mm (33.9 in)
Ground Clearance	235 mm (9.3 in) 180 mm (7.1 in) – E-17	250 mm (9.8 in)
Wheelbase	1,230 mm (48.4 in)	1,270 mm (50 in)
Track (F/R)	34.6 in; 34.8 in – E-17 / 33.5 in	37 in / 36.6 in
Dry Weight	275 Kg (606 lbs) 281 Kg (619 lbs) – E-24 286 Kg (630 lbs) – E-17	274 Kg (604 lbs)
Rack Capacity (F/R)	mm (66 lbs)	mm (132 lbs)
Vehicle Load Capacity Limit	172 Kg (380 lbs)

Although it’s not listed in the manual for service The trailer hitch capacity of the Vinson as per some websites, is about 450 kg (992 pounds). 

The rear and front racks in all models come with a front-mounted fender 3-liter water-proof utility box as well as a 4.5-liter cargo box (view on Amazon) placed to the rear end of the.

Exterior

Many off-roaders believe it is because the Suzuki Vinson designations signify an alteration between the frames of trims. 

But, this isn’t accurate. The LT A500F belongs to models with Quadmatic(TM) 2-speed quads and the LT-F500F is for manual transmissions with 5 speeds.

All models are housed with tubular steel frames and are available with body panel colors in black, hunter green, and yellow, as well as read along with Advantage(TM) camo.

2001 Suzuki Vinson LT-A500F/FK	2003 Suzuki Vinson LT-F500F/FK
Headlight	12V 30/30 W x 2 12V 35/36.5 W – E-17	12V 30/30 W x 2
AUX Lamp	12V 40 W x 1
Brake Light/Taillight	12V 7/5 W x 1 12V 7/3.4 W x 1 – E-17	12V 21/5 W x 1
Indicator Lights	12V 3.4W (Coolant temperature, neutral, reverse) 12V 1.7 W (high beam)	LED (Coolant temperature gauge, neutral, reverse, high beam, parking indicator)
Speedometer Light	12V 1.7 W	LED

Suzuki Vinson 500 parts include:

• Front and rear fenders with high-raised fenders
• Serrated footpegs
• A radiator guard
• Front bumpers with an easy-to-winch tab
• A polyethylene skid plate that is fully covered
• Hand grips
• Handlebars

It also comes with digital instruments – timer, speedometer hour fuel gauge, meter as well as ample lighting.

Cost of a Suzuki Vinson 500

Auction listings can range from $475 to $3,948, based on the year of the vehicle, its condition, and whether it was altered or maintained in stock condition. 

The quads that are pre-owned at the higher part of the market tend to be retired from fire or police department use, and typically have trailers. 

In contrast, models priced less than $700 usually have a missing dipstick for oil or frames that have rusted due to corrosion from salt, damaged yolk, or driveshaft that’s not. 

In the worst-case scenario, these wheels are in disrepair or not in operating condition. 

The majority of the items listed available on trader and auction sites are camo or yellow trims with a significant amount of mileage and time.

For the prices listed I have put them together into the following table:

Year – Model – Trim	List Price	Retail/Trade-In Values
2002 Suzuki Vinson 500 (LT-A500FK2)	$6,599	$1,020 – $1,345
2003 Suzuki Vinson (LT-A500FK3)	$6,599	$1,020 – $1,345
2003 Suzuki Vinson LT-F500FK3	$6,399	$970 – $1,275
2004 Suzuki Vinson LT-A500FBK4 (Limited Edition)	$6,699	$1,285 – $1,690
2004 Suzuki Vinson LT-A500FK4	$6,599	$1,265 – $1,665
2004 Suzuki Vinson LT-F500FK4	$6,399	$1,195 – $1,570
2005 Suzuki Vinson 500 (LT-A500FK5)	$6,399	$1,355 – $1,785
2005 Suzuki Vinson LT-A500FBK5 (Limited Edition)	$6,699	$1,435 – $1,890
2005 Suzuki Vinson LT-A500FCK5 (Advantage)	$6,699	$1,435 – $1,890
2005 Suzuki Vinson LT-F500FK5	$6,199	$1,325 – $1,745
2005 Suzuki Vinson LT-F500FCK5 (Advantage)	$6,499	$1,400 – $1,840
2006 Suzuki Vinson 500 (LT-A500FK6)	$6,399	$1,690 – $2,225
2006 Suzuki Vinson LT-A500FCK6 (Advantage)	$6,699	$1,780 – $2,340
2006 Suzuki Vinson LT-F500FK6	$6,199	$1,655 – $2,175
2006 Suzuki Vinson LT-F500FCK6 (Advantage)	$6,499	$1,815 – $2,390
2007 Suzuki Vinson 500 (LT-A500FK7)	$6,399	$1,920 – $2,525
2007 Suzuki Vinson LT-A500FCK7 (Advantage)	$6,699	$1,970 – $2,595
2007 Suzuki Vinson LT-F500FK7	$6,199	$1,765 – $2,320
2007 Suzuki Vinson LT-F500FCK7 (Advantage)	$6,499	$1,920 – $2,525

Suzuki Vinson 500 Problems

Although it is highly praised, however, although it has been praised for its performance, the Suzuki Vinson 500 4×4 is not perfect. 

In this article we will discuss two (2) of the most well-known issues that owners and veterans confronted with the four-wheeler along with suggestions on how to resolve these issues:

Shifter Problems

Particularly with the earlier Vinson 500 models, the lever assembly (a.k.a. shifter) has been reported to pop out of the blue and not allow the vehicle to shift into the neutral position or shift from a parking position. 

This is due to the pin that keeps the shifter in place occasionally being displaced or getting stuck in the groove that is created by long periods of usage in the Quad. 

This does not mean that the mechanism for the Vinson is not sturdy. But, this is normal for an ATV that is nearly 20 years old.

A brand new gearbox or lever assembly costs about $350 (even greater). A less expensive alternative to expensive aftermarket parts is to bring the gearbox you have to an area welding shop. After the grooves on the shifter have been cleaned your 4×4 will look great.

Starting Difficulties

If you are experiencing issues with starting If you are experiencing problems starting your car, one of these locations is likely to be the culprit The starter motor, the ignition/spark, and circuitry. 

Therefore, assuming that the CVT is at fault should be your final option when examining your vehicle.

An ignition mechanism is typically the first thing to investigate. Make sure you have a spark, it’s not weak. Also, ensure the use of the plugin has the proper temperature range. 

Then, look over and inspect the starter’s motor to find problems. Then, examine relays and connections, and make sure that they are not shorted or corroded.

Also, check that the belt drive is not damaged. If these are checked are not present, it’s the only time to check the fuel system as well as the belt drive. The likely cause is typically the engine or drivetrain components.

About Suzuki

Suzuki Motor Corporation is a market leader in off-road and automotive vehicles and is the creator of the Suzuki Vinson 500. 

With more than 133 distributors spread across more than 192 countries, nobody could have imagined the Japanese company’s humble beginnings back to weaving on a loom. 

Today, Suzuki’s vast assortment of offerings such as motorcycles, cars 4WD as well outboard marine engines wheelchairs as well as internal combustion engines demonstrates its constant innovation and is a testimony to the company’s growing status as one of the top automobile manufacturers by producing around the globe.

Conclusion – Suzuki Vinson 500 4×4 Review

With its durable chassis, drive modes that can be selected storage capabilities, as well as hybrid features, we can all be sure with the fact that Suzuki Vinson 500 was not only a fleeting quad. 

It was one of the first mid-size vehicle models to offer high-performance at both ends – for both recreation and work – as well as being among the most beautiful and secure rides within its category. 

Because of its versatility in its design and general layout, there’s no terrain that is too rough or a job is too difficult to conquer. Do you want a reliable quad with dual-purpose capabilities? It’s the Suzuki Vinson 500 is the wheeler you need.

Are Suzuki Vinson good?

Awarded a high rating for its off-pavement capability and low price, The Suzuki Vinson 500 surprised all off-roading enthusiasts from the beginning. Because of its well-engineered overall design, luxurious suspension, and impressive low-end rumble, It was frequently called a true open-class four-wheeler.

What size is a Suzuki Vinson?

Suzuki 500 Vinson Suzuki 500 Vinson has an overall length of 82.5 inches with an overall length of 46.1 inches, and the height is 48.6 inches, with the chair height at 33.9 inches. The wheelbase measures 50 inches and has a general clearance of 9.9 inches. The dry weight of the machine is 604 pounds.

What kind of oil does a Suzuki Vinson 500 take?

ATV Power SAE 5W-40 Synthetic 4T Engine Oil, by Motul USA(r). This product is composed of top-quality components that can meet or exceed the strict requirements for quality.

Where is the VIN number on a Suzuki Quadrunner?

The frame/VIN code is stamped across the top side of the ATV frame, as illustrated in the photo. The serial number of the engine is located on the right-hand side of the housing for the machine.

What kind of oil do you put in an ATV?

A synthetic engine is usually the most suitable option for your ATV. If you regularly ride and use synthetic oil, it will allow your ATV to run at its best. Synthetic oil is more resistant to higher temperatures and is more extended and cleaner. It will let you not have to replace your oils every so often when you ride several times each week.

What kind of oil does a Suzuki King Quad take?

Fill the engine up with 2.6 quarters of Suzuki Ecstar 10W-40 oil or any other 10W-40 oils additives to a wet clutch system.

Where is the VIN number on a Suzuki 500?

On cars manufactured between 1997 and later, the VIN is 17 numbers. For Sportsman 400, 450, 500, 800, 570, and ETX models, as well as 2013 Hawkeye models and Sportsman 6×6 models of 2011-14, The VIN can be located at the left rear frame (1). back edge left (1).

What year is my Suzuki Quadrunner?

The year of the Suzuki ATV is determined by using the 10th digit of VIN and then comparing it to the appropriate year on the VIN Year chart.

What years did they make the Suzuki Quadmaster 500?

The Suzuki Quadrunner 500 4×4 is an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) that is also referred to as a quad and was produced between 2000 and 2006 through Suzuki Motor Corporation. Suzuki Motor Corporation is a Japanese manufacturer of ATVs as well as motorcycles. “500” in the name refers to its displacement “500” in the vehicle’s title refers to the engine’s displacement, approximately 493 cubic centimeters.

Should I run premium gas in my ATV?

Therefore, it’s advisable to choose premium fuel for two strokes since they run at a higher compressive rate. That means you shouldn’t buy anything less than 91-octane fuel.

How often should I change my ATV oil?

In general, it is recommended to conduct the ATV’s oil replacement approximately every 100 hours or at the very least once a year..

Can you use car oil in a ATV?

It is possible to use automotive oil on An ATV or UTV in the event of need. However, it’s not always advised. It is best to use synthetic car oil with a weight of 10w-40 if you need to. However, the oils designed specifically for motorcycles, ATVs and UTVs are the most reliable option as they’re designed to safeguard the smaller engines.

How do I tell what year my Suzuki King Quad is?

Check the 10th letter of the number of identification for vehicles. It is likely to be a number or letter. Utilize the 10th character to identify the year of manufacture of the four-wheeler.

How do you read a VIN number on a Suzuki motorcycle?

If you’re looking at a Suzuki model, you’ll see J, which means Japan, followed by the letters S to indicate Suzuki and 1 to represent motorcycle. The following five digits are recognized as the VDS, or Vehicle Descriptor Section which provides information on the car’s specifications. Find the fourth digit of the VDS. This is the model version number.

Can I use TruFuel in my ATV?

I run the TruFuel 4-Cycle in my Tao Tao 110cc Boulder. This will cost more to run the ATV, but for a kid’s ATV made in China, I’m sure that TruFuel can keep the ATV going for years without having to worry about fuel-related issues.

Should I use non ethanol gas in my ATV?

Super Moderator. Both can be combined without issue. Your vehicle doesn’t care and will run the same even with ethanol or with no. The two will not cause any damage to the engine.

When should I change my break-in my ATV oil?

Change the Oil and Filter

After about an hour of riding your ATV, before cooling it off, ensure you alter the oil. If you are putting on a brand new engine, the first hour will get rid of any burrs accumulated on the motor components, and they will be mixed into the oil and then absorbed by the filter.

Can I put motorcycle oil in my ATV?

The majority of people asking this question have an initial inquiry to ask whether I can apply one motor oil on my motocross bike, motorcycle and ATV/SSV? Of course, you can use the same type of oil to cover all your equipment (assuming you’re using the correct viscosity in each).

Suzuki Vinson 500 FAQ