Let’s Talk About Extreme Max 5600.3116 Winch Mount For Honda TRX500 Foreman And TRX500 Rubicon
The Extreme Max 5600.3116 Winch Mount For Honda TRX500 Foreman And TRX500 Rubicon is designed to seamlessly integrate a winch onto specific Honda ATVs. This mount from Extreme Max promises easy installation, durability, and compatibility with a wide range of winches, making it an essential upgrade for riders who frequently encounter challenging terrain. It’s aimed at those who need reliable pulling power for self-recovery or assisting others, offering a robust solution to a common problem.
I’ve spent years navigating trails where getting stuck is not a matter of “if,” but “when.” I was looking for a winch mount that wouldn’t require extensive modification to my ATV, something I could install quickly and trust in demanding situations. The promise of a direct fit and compatibility with standard winches drew me to the Extreme Max mount.
Unboxing the mount, I immediately noticed the heft of the steel and the clean powder-coated finish. It felt substantial and well-made, suggesting it could withstand the rigors of off-road use. The build quality appeared robust, exceeding my initial expectations.
I considered the Warn Winch Mount and the KFI Products Winch Mount, both popular choices. Ultimately, the Extreme Max mount’s competitive price and specific compatibility with my Honda TRX500 swayed my decision. It seemed to offer the best balance of value and functionality.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism. The mount looked great, but I was eager to see how easily it would install and perform in the field. Could it really live up to the promises?
Real-World Testing: Putting Extreme Max 5600.3116 Winch Mount For Honda TRX500 Foreman And TRX500 Rubicon to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Extreme Max 5600.3116 Winch Mount on a particularly muddy section of trails in the local backcountry, known for its deep ruts and hidden water crossings. The conditions were wet and slick, perfect for putting the winch mount and a winch to the ultimate test. The ATV sank into the mud within 100 feet, but the Winch Mount and winch made extraction very easy.
The mount performed flawlessly, providing a secure and stable platform for the winch to operate. I appreciated the easy installation, which saved me a lot of time and frustration in the field. There were no issues or surprises after the first-time use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of frequent use, the Extreme Max winch mount has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of bending, cracking, or significant rust, despite being exposed to mud, water, and harsh weather conditions. The powder-coated finish still looks great.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wash after each ride is all it takes to keep the mount in good condition. It significantly outperforms the universal winch mount I previously used, which started showing signs of wear and tear after just a few outings. I highly recommend this mount to anyone using a winch on a Honda ATV.
Breaking Down the Features of Extreme Max 5600.3116 Winch Mount For Honda TRX500 Foreman And TRX500 Rubicon
Specifications
- Compatibility: Designed specifically for Honda TRX500 Forman FE/FM/FOE/FPM models (2007-2011) and Honda TRX500 Rubicon FA/FGA/FPA/PG models (2009-2014). This ensures a direct fit, eliminating the need for modifications.
- Winch Capacity: Compatible with ATV/UTV winches from 2000 lbs. to 3600 lbs. This broad compatibility allows users to choose a winch that suits their specific needs.
- Mounting Patterns: Supports Standard 4-Hole (4.875″ x 3″) and Standard 2-Hole mounting patterns. This accommodates a wide range of winch brands and models.
- Construction: Features a powder-coated steel construction. The powder coating provides excellent protection against rust and corrosion.
- Warranty: Includes a two-year limited warranty. This warranty provides peace of mind and demonstrates the manufacturer’s confidence in the product.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the winch mount’s reliability, ease of installation, and overall performance. The direct fit design minimizes installation headaches, while the broad winch compatibility provides flexibility in choosing the right winch for the job. The robust construction ensures the mount can withstand the stresses of off-road use.
Performance & Functionality
The Extreme Max 5600.3116 Winch Mount performs its job exceptionally well, providing a solid and reliable platform for the winch. It’s easy to install and use, and the winch operates smoothly and efficiently with the mount in place. The winch mount fully met and exceeded my expectations.
The mount’s strength and stability are its greatest strengths, allowing the winch to exert maximum pulling power without any flexing or wobbling. However, the powder coating is prone to scratching if abused. This is mostly cosmetic, so it is not a big deal.
Design & Ergonomics
The winch mount boasts a simple, yet effective design, with a clean powder-coated finish and a low profile. The all-steel construction feels incredibly sturdy, and the weight is appropriate for the intended use. The design promotes solid stability.
It’s extremely user-friendly, and the installation process is straightforward with the included instructions. There’s virtually no learning curve involved. This means more time on the trail.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the robust steel construction and powder-coated finish, the Extreme Max winch mount is built to last for many years. It’s easy to clean and maintain, requiring only a quick wash after each use to prevent the buildup of mud and grime. Minimal maintenance is a big plus.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Extreme Max 5600.3116 Winch Mount doesn’t come with any additional accessories beyond the mounting hardware. However, it’s compatible with a wide range of winches and fairleads from various brands, allowing for considerable customization. A compatible hawse or roller fairlead is highly recommended.
Pros and Cons of Extreme Max 5600.3116 Winch Mount For Honda TRX500 Foreman And TRX500 Rubicon
Pros
- Specifically designed for a direct fit on compatible Honda TRX500 models, ensuring easy installation.
- Constructed from durable, powder-coated steel for lasting protection against rust and corrosion.
- Compatible with a wide range of 2000 lbs. to 3600 lbs. ATV/UTV winches, providing versatility.
- Offers a two-year limited warranty, demonstrating the manufacturer’s confidence in the product.
- Provides a secure and stable platform for the winch, maximizing its pulling power.
Cons
- The powder-coated finish can be susceptible to scratching with heavy use, though this is primarily cosmetic.
- Doesn’t include a fairlead; one must be purchased separately for optimal winch operation.
Who Should Buy Extreme Max 5600.3116 Winch Mount For Honda TRX500 Foreman And TRX500 Rubicon?
The Extreme Max 5600.3116 Winch Mount is perfect for off-road enthusiasts, ATV riders, and hunters who frequently navigate challenging terrain. It is ideal for anyone who owns a compatible Honda TRX500 model and wants to add a winch for self-recovery or assisting others. This mount is a great addition for people who frequent the woods.
Those who rarely encounter situations where a winch is needed, or who are unwilling to invest in a winch and fairlead, should skip this product. A hawse or roller fairlead is a must-have accessory for proper cable management and winch operation.
Conclusion on Extreme Max 5600.3116 Winch Mount For Honda TRX500 Foreman And TRX500 Rubicon
The Extreme Max 5600.3116 Winch Mount For Honda TRX500 Foreman And TRX500 Rubicon is a well-designed, durable, and easy-to-install solution for adding a winch to compatible Honda ATVs. At a price of $57.19, the value proposition is excellent, considering the build quality and the peace of mind it provides. I found it to be an excellent addition to my ATV.
I would highly recommend this winch mount to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable way to enhance their ATV’s capabilities. Don’t get stuck on the trail – invest in the Extreme Max 5600.3116 Winch Mount and ride with confidence!