Wondering whether the X-Bull winch is the right one for your vehicle?
In this X-Bull winch review, we’ll look at the pros and cons of this popular unit. We will also dive deeper into the details of the design and power of the product.
At the end of this article, you will be able to make a decision as to whether or not the X-Bull winch is for you.
| X-BULL Electric Winch 4,500 lbs | X-BULL Electric Winch 12,000 lbs | X-BULL Electric Winch 13,000 lbs | X-BULL Electric Winch XPV 14,500 lbs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  | |
12V DC 1.5 HP Permanent Magnet | 12V DC 6.0 HP Series Wound | 12V DC 6.0HP Series Wound | 12V DC 6.4HP Series Wound | |
136:1 | 265:1 | 265:1 | 265:1 | |
4,500 lbs | 12,000 lbs | 13,000 lbs | 14,500 lbs | |
12 kg | 28.7 kg | 28.7 kg | 27 kg | |
40.1 x 11.7 x 11.9 cm | 52.8 x 16.5 x 26.0 cm | 52.8 x 16.5 x 26.4 cm | 54.0 x 16.0 x 25.7 cm | |
1 year | 1 year | 1 year | 1 year |
Pros & Cons
Design
Winches are designed to rescue vehicles from getting stuck. They’re popular pieces of gear amongst off-roaders and those who like to travel off the beaten path.
The X-Bull winch, like all other winches, is designed to be compact and unnoticeable under a bull bar.
The 4500 is just 12kg and is perfect for ATVs and UTVs.
The X-Bull 12000 to 14000 lbs units, used for most 4WD vehicles, are almost identical in weight (about 28kg) and dimensions.
All X-Bull winches can come with either synthetic rope or steel cables.
Most expert off-roaders recommend sticking with synthetic rope. It’s a lot easier to use and is generally safer. The only downside is it requires more maintenance.
The X-Bull winches are all waterproof and can be used in any conditions, rain or shine. Overall, the X-Bull winches look sporty and modern.
Power Specs
The X-Bull 4500 comes with a 1.5 HP permanent magnet motor and a gear ratio of 136:1. It’s ideal for ATVs and UTVs.
The X-Bull 12000 and 13000 have a similar 12V 6.0 HP series wound motor and a gear ratio of 265:1 and are ideal for mid size 4WDs.
The X-Bull 14500, on the other hand, is designed for larger vehicles under 3 tons.
It has a 12V 6.4 HP series wound motor with a gear ratio of 265:1 and is capable of pulling at faster speeds.
These winches are relatively quiet and work pretty well under most situations.
Known Issues & Warranty
Known Issues
Overall, the X-Bull winches are considered reliable products. However, there are a few issues that users pointed out.
One user claimed that his X-Bull 4500 stopped working after using them just once in 3 months of ownership. However, that was the old X-Bull 4500 before they made the product improvements in 2021.
Another user suggested that a pinch plate would help prevent the ropes from unrolling back.
Warranty
X-Bull offers a 12-month warranty for most of their products, including the winches.
In terms of honouring claims, X-Bull provides reasonable technical support and will refund any purchases of faulty products. There haven’t been any reports of them unreasonably denying a warranty claim.
However, for refunds, you might have to wait for 4 weeks to get your money back. This time includes the transit time of the product, the processing, and the bank processing time.
Price
Overall, the X-Bull winches are considered reliable and affordable.
They have a good design, decent motor, durable ropes, and an affordable price that make them worthy of consideration if you’re in the market for a budget winch.
Therefore, we consider this product good value for money.
X-Bull Winch FAQ
How do you use the X-Bull winch?
Winches are used to recover a vehicle from getting stuck in snow, mud, sand, or trenches.
Basically, you take the ropes and hook them to an immovable object like a tree (use a tree protector if you have one!), then you operate the winch to pull your vehicle towards the immovable object.
The X-Bull winch can also be used to recover another vehicle.
How much does it cost to get a winch installed?
Most people that buy a winch install it themselves. However, some people may not have the skills to install their own winches.
In some cases, you can get a free installation from the shop you bought the winch from, but often installation will cost you an additional $100-$200.
Final Thoughts - X-Bull Winch Review
Overall, the X-Bull winch is an affordable alternative to the high-end winches. Despite being considerably cheaper, the X-Bull winches are still considered to be a reliable product.
It’s perfect for someone looking for a winch to use occasionally, but who doesn’t want it to cost an arm and a leg.
If you’re hitting tough terrain often, you will want to look at a better quality, more premium option, but for everyone else, this winch is worthy of your consideration.
Review Summary
Reviewer: Louis
Review Date: 2022-04-15
Reviewed Item: X-Bull Winch
Author Rating: 4/5
Product Name: X-Bull Winch
Price: AUD $169
Product Availability: Available in Stock
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Note that while every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information on this page, there may sometimes be errors. Check all specifications with the manufacturer before purchasing any product.
Too bad they don’t stand behind the quality of the most important part of an electric winch, the motor !
Extremely disappointed. Winch burned out after less than a dozen uses drawing 240kg up a small incline.
Disengage control sheered off would not disengage flimsiest piece of plastic
Motor has stopped working, there’s power to unit,maybe switch set the problem, only used once disappointed now have to employ auto electrian to sort it out!!!!