2010 Kymco UXV 500i First Ride Photo Gallery

Making a name as a powersports company isn’t easy, but Taiwanese manufacturer, Kymco, is doing it in a big way.

We test Kymco's 2012 UXV 500i fuel injected side-by-side on the trails of Carolina Adventure World. See the full details in the 2012 Kymco UXV 500i First Ride article.

A lockable glove box adds storage along with an underseat pocket and a large bucket-style container under the easy-access hood.

Kymco offers many of the same features found on more expensive UTV competitors.

A large, tilt bed, standard two-inch tow hitch and easy access cab make the UXV a competent working vehicle.

A wide turning radius requires more shifting of the CVT transmisson to negotiate tight terrain.

The front differential lock is a little cheesy feeling with a plastic lever on the right side of the steering wheel. It works fine, though, and the extra traction provided will help get the 500i through whatever terrain passes underneath its 75.2-inch wheelbase and 12.5 inches of ground clearance.

We headed to Carolina Adventure World for two days of riding on the 2012 model ATVs and UTVs to see if these machines are really up to snuff.

The whole package rolls on independent suspension and dual A-arms front and rear.

Kymco emphasizes the importance of value in purchasing a UTV or ATV. The 500i packs a lot of value into its pricetag.

We were able to creep down some of the steeper hills in total control and on the faster section were able to haul down no matter how hard we pushed it.

Kymco gave the 2012 UXV 500i fuel injection to improve the engine performance.

The 25-inch Kenda tires provide enough traction to get the stopping power delivered to the ground.

Riding in the cab is a minimalist experience. Everything is there, but the UXV lacks some of the comfort of other side-by-sides.

Selecting between 2WD and 4WD is a simple push of the left-side button, down near the light switch.

A basic design and rugged components look like they will hold up to pressure washing or being left out in the weather.