ATV RM 500 - what is behind the production of Russian mechanics?

Unpretentious in maintenance, reliable, durable and inexpensive, the RM 500 ATV is the brainchild of a Russian company. This open vehicle has four wheels and all-wheel drive. It moves confidently and steadily on snow-covered roads, easily copes with off-road conditions, and on a flat highway it accelerates to 80 km/h. High and even maximum speed for such equipment. In this review, we will tell you about all the things that you will encounter when operating this ATV. So, is this all-terrain vehicle worth the money?

Vehicle performance characteristics

Unique RM ATVs are generally distinguished by incredible stability when cornering, and also demonstrate decent stability on descents. You can roll over only if the driver really wants to. The presence of a passenger seat equipped with a comfortable backrest allows two people to ride the ATV. The scope of use of this all-terrain vehicle is expanded by a tow bar (an attachment for a trailer), cargo bars, and an electric winch.

Russian mechanics company RM 500 and technical characteristics of the ATV:

• Length – 240 cm.
• Width – 124.5 cm.
• Height – 125.5 cm.
• Ground clearance – 290 mm.
• The power of the single-cylinder engine is 40.8 horsepower.
• The working volume is 503 cm³.
• Brakes are hydraulic.
• The fuel tank holds 25 liters of gasoline.
• Weight – 288 kg.

Specifications

Power point:

1. The type of engine installed is gasoline, four-stroke.
2. Number of cylinders – 1.
3. Working volume – 493 cubic meters.
4. Rated output power is 38 horsepower/27.9 kilowatts (at 5300 rpm).
5. The highest torque is 55 newtons per meter (at 5000 rpm).
6. The nominal crankshaft rotation speed is 6000 rpm.
7. Number of camshafts – 1.
8. The camshaft location is overhead (SOHC).
9. Number of valves per cylinder – 2.
10. Type of cooling system – liquid with forced circulation.
11. Type of lubrication system - oil sump.
12. Type of fuel system – carburetor.
13. The type of carburetor used is Mikuni.
14. Air filter type – absorption.
15. Recommended fuel is not lower than AI-92.
16. Recommended oil is 10w40.
17. Type of ignition system - contactless CDI with an electronic control unit.
18. Starting system type – electric starter or manual.

Chassis:

1. Drive type – full.
2. Transmission system type – mechanical system with variator.
3. Clutch type - centrifugal, multi-disc, automatic.
4. Number of gears – 3 (+ neutral).
5. Frame type – tubular, rigid, made of high-strength steel.
6. Front suspension type: independent, with two A-arms.
7. Rear suspension type: independent, with two A-arms.
8. The front suspension travel is 180 millimeters.
9. Rear suspension travel is 205 millimeters.
10. The type of front shock absorbers is hydraulic.
11. The type of rear shock absorbers is hydraulic.
12. Steering type: traction ball, motorcycle.
13. Front tires - off-road, AT26x8-14.
14. Rear tires – off-road, AT26x10-14.
15. The type of front discs is cast, made of aluminum.
16. The type of rear discs is cast, made of aluminum.
17. Brake system type – hydraulic.
18. Front brake type: disc.
19. Rear brake type: disc.

Dimensions:

1. Construction length – 2320 millimeters.
2. Structural width – 1245 millimeters.
3. Structural height – 1255 millimeters.
4. The wheelbase length is 1490 millimeters.
5. The lowest ground clearance is 290 millimeters.
6. The track distance of the front wheels is 965 millimeters.
7. The rear wheel track distance is 914 millimeters.
8. The smallest turning radius is 4000 millimeters.

Other characteristics:

1. The capacity of the fuel tank is 24 liters.
2. The structural weight of the ATV is 375 kilograms.
3. Maximum speed is 90 kilometers per hour.
4. The capacity of the first glove compartment is 9 liters.
5. The capacity of the second glove compartment is 16 liters.
6. The maximum load capacity of the front luggage platform is 40 kilograms.
7. The maximum load capacity of the rear luggage platform is 80 kilograms.
8. The maximum weight of towed cargo is 250 kilograms.
9. Number of places – 2.

ATV RM 500 and its advantages

The universal ATV RM 500 demonstrates the following advantages:

• Increased engine thrust.
• Perfect stability and easy control.
• Independent wishbone suspension that can smooth out any road irregularities.
• Informative dashboard.
• Hydraulic brakes.
• Powerful lighting equipment.
• Increased ground clearance.
• Wheels with reliable lugs.

An important advantage is that spare parts for RM ATVs can be purchased at affordable prices. The all-terrain vehicle is designed for two people.

For the Russian Mechanics company, the RM 500 is a landmark model. It combines the best qualities and characteristics of touring vehicles and ATVs designed for daily use. This is the first all-terrain vehicle of this type, developed by specialists from a Russian company. The reliability and high quality of ATVs is confirmed by a long repair-free mileage of over 10,000 km. After such a mileage, they usually just go through the chassis and change the bearings.

Reviews

1. I purchased the Russian Mechanics RM 500-2 4x4 ATV a month ago. On the first day I drove more than 40 kilometers. During this short run, the equipment did not even raise any doubts about the reliability and quality of both assembly and components. The engine accelerates the car very quickly and pulls uphill without any problems. My configuration includes heated steering grips and gas trigger, but in my opinion they simply make the model more expensive, since at a temperature of -4 I didn’t notice much of a difference. My hands still got cold while driving. This is just the beginning, as I have identified many shortcomings. Another problem is the engine cutting off when changing gears, which does not happen very often, but still greatly interferes with a comfortable ride. The battery charge indicator lights up even when fully charged. The ATV is very noisy when operating. The controls are difficult compared to similar products. In principle, the model is not bad if you bring it to mind, but the price tag is clearly too high.
2. I recently bought this ATV and I regret the purchase a little. Everything is spoiled only by the quality of parts and assembly. The hubs have caps made of plastic. So, on the first day I took them off in a puddle of ice. Now I’m thinking about removing the arch extensions myself, since when driving in a rut I can even break them. Plastic elements are very fragile and can crack from the slightest collision. In frosty weather, the entire body is held together when driving, which is sometimes annoying. But if you do not take all this into account, then I really liked the Russian Mechanics RM 500-2 4x4 ATV in terms of technical aspects. The suspension is quite soft and at the same time stable. The maneuverability of the vehicle is quite good, although sometimes it is difficult to steer. The cross-country ability, so to speak, is not very high, but acceptable, at least for some difficult areas. Acceleration is very satisfying, as is traction.
3. I purchased the RM 500-2 4x4 model in Tyumen from an official dealer. After purchase, the ATV was successfully run-in, without identifying even minor damage. The center differential lock does its job perfectly. When this system is turned on, the front gearbox reliably and firmly blocks the wheels, which often helps off-road. By the way, the lock is activated using a separate button conveniently located on the steering wheel. All controls are also located quite conveniently and ergonomically. In my opinion, the Russian Mechanics RM 500-2 4x4 ATV is significantly superior to similar Chinese-made models, and I have been convinced of this many times. The company and I arranged a long drive around the area; among all the cars, there were mainly Chinese models. So, Russian mechanics showed itself very worthy here. The ATV does not bury itself and confidently takes the climbs.

Model features

Positive reviews about this device come from everywhere: from spacious pastures; from mountain settlements; from extreme sports tracks, as well as hiking trails. This list can be supplemented with military training grounds. It seems that Russian manufacturers have achieved what they set out to achieve - they have developed truly universal equipment. It can be used as a sports bike and in some types of agricultural work. Starting from 2010, RM 500 ATVs did not stay in stores for long, as they were successfully sold.

Model improvement

After modernizing the vehicle and some modifications, the Russian market was replenished with two new models. They are: PM 500-2, as well as PM 4x4. Numerous tests and positive reviews from motorcycle enthusiasts confirm that the end result justified the ongoing improvement. The all-terrain vehicles turned out to be reliable, and the modernization was not carried out in vain. Both models are somewhat similar, but differ in some features. The RM 500-2 ATV was equipped with a comfortable passenger seat, convenient controls, body kits made of impact-resistant plastic and reliable protection from dirt. The frame design has been improved, and two luggage racks have been equipped. Thanks to the improvement, the weight of the model has decreased significantly, namely by 13 kilograms.

Advantages and disadvantages of the device

Reviews from owners of the RM 500 2 ATV are contradictory, but the reason for this is different places of purchase. Users who took the equipment second-hand or did not buy it from a dealer complain about problems with the engine, the quality of the wiring and other minor defects. But even when buying a car from a certified center, you need to be prepared for:

• High noise level of the device. When driving, the car looks more like a small tractor.
• Lack of heated handles. If the equipment will be used in winter, you will have to equip the quad with heating.
• Minor problems with wiring. For some owners, the battery charge indicator often comes on, even if the battery is full.

The advantages of cars are many times greater:

• Excellent maneuverability and controllability.
• Good dynamics and high speed.
• Convenient location of controls.
• Soft and stable suspension.
• Availability of differential lock.

It is worth noting that the package is quite good; the manufacturer has added everything necessary for driving both off-road and for traveling on public roads.

Modernized model design

It cannot be said that the appearance of the RM 500-2 is significantly different from similar vehicles. It has some similarities with other models. Despite this, this ATV has its own recognizable style. It has noticeable sporting features and even a certain aggressiveness. The model goes on sale in five color options: black and red, as well as white and yellow. We haven't forgotten about the color green. The arches above the wheels are made of black material.

This model is equipped with a four-stroke engine with a displacement of 493 cm³. The improved engine pleases motorcycle enthusiasts with incredible power, which amounts to 38 horsepower. However, compared to the RM 500 ATV, the improved RM 500-2 model accelerates to 85 km/h. Increased cross-country ability and extremely low speed allow this vehicle to move even through marshy areas.

The two-level seat is also worthy of attention. It is convenient not only for the biker, but also for the passenger. This is confirmed by numerous unanimous reviews from happy owners of such equipment. In addition, two ergonomic handrails are provided for the passenger.

Video

It is necessary to separately consider all the advantages of the Russian Mechanics RM 500-2 4×4 model:

1. Changing the geometry of the structure. Thanks to the use of new geometry, it was possible to significantly reduce the force on the steering mechanism, which had a positive effect on comfort when maneuvering.
2. Electric winch. This element is already available as standard and provides increased maneuverability of the model, since if the equipment gets stuck, it can easily be pushed out using a winch. Even if the ATV is loaded, as there is more than enough power.
3. Two-level seating. The new seat can comfortably accommodate two people. In addition, there are special handles and a backrest for the passenger.
4. Improved foot supports. Such elements are often used specifically on two-seater ATVs. They help minimize the slipping of feet from the footrests of both driver and passenger. The supports are especially convenient when driving on severe off-road conditions, when the equipment is almost completely covered in mud. Their presence also provides additional convenience when moving through water obstacles and wetlands.
5. Sealed compartments under luggage racks. One of the compartments has a capacity of 9 liters, while the second has a volume of 16 liters. Their presence allows you to transport more cargo or use them to store any things and items needed during the trip.
6. Injection molded plastic body components. This plastic is manufactured using modern technologies, which results in increased impact resistance and scratch resistance. In addition, such plastic, combined with changes in the frame structure, made it possible to lighten the model by 13 kilograms compared to its predecessor.
7. Necessary lighting fixtures. As standard, the ATV is equipped with front and rear headlights with built-in turn indicators. This lighting equipment provides not only excellent visibility at night and in poor visibility conditions, but also safety when moving.

Wheels and chassis

Even looking briefly at this all-terrain vehicle, one cannot help but notice the impressive wheels with pronounced treads and alloy rims. Both suspensions are equipped with hydraulic shock absorbers. The PM 500-2 model is completed with hydraulic brakes. The coordinated work of all components, without exception, provides the equipment with excellent maneuverability, as well as excellent cross-country ability. The chassis was tested on rough terrain.

Among other things, this vehicle is equipped with a high-power electric winch and a towbar. The winch will come in handy when the ATV starts to slip in the mud, and you can attach a trailer to the towbar. The main thing is that these additional elements did not affect the cost of the model at all. It is sold at an affordable price. However, this cannot continue for long, so you should hurry up with the purchase of this model.