I just got the idea in my head that I might want to buy an ATV. I want atleast 400cc, 4x4, liquid cooled. I cant decide on automatic or manual. I really like the reliability of the manuals, and thier bottom end power. My dad has a polaris 500, and im not too crazy about it. its too sluggish taking off.

i am looking into Yamaha or Kawasaki that I can use around the ranch for work, and hunting.

suggestions anyone??????????????


phillip

 

Suzuki's 500cc 4x4 Vinson. You will not be disappointed.

 

I've been looking at atv's too ................ I'm leaning towards the bombardier traxter XL

 

I really like the ArticCats. Had one for years and no problems.

 

I have always had good luck with Honda. I have had a TRX3004X4, TRX4004X4, and now have a 1998 TRX450S 4X4. I have never had to work on one other than general maint. and the resale is great (aroud here a used Honda will bring more than any other brand).
Just my $.02

 

if you want speed...check out the 660 Raptor, 1 mean ride!

 

Picked it up today a brand new 2004 Polaris 700 Sportsman Twin,
Went for a ride there is nothing sluguish about this Quad 0 to 70 in no time at all, go check it out.

 

Chalk another vote up for the Polaris Sportsman 700. if you want to go anywhere then this is the one for ya

 

1 more vote for Sportsman 700 This is one awesome machine. I got mine 2 1/2 years ago and not a single problem. Very dependable, honerable ATV. They will go anywhere. I will have to agree with ya on the 500's a little sluggish but jump on a 700 and hang on. I have rode with a lot of other ATV's and there some good ones out there, but if you want the best bang for your buck grab one of these. I guarentee you will not be dissapointed. Also this year they just came out with EFI on them and that is supposed to give ya more HP. Go check them out before you buy anything else.
P.S. They ride great also you can do this while pulling out the others Good luck

 

HONDA!!! I love my 2000 foreman 400 4x4. It has awesome torque, and i know ill make a few people mad with this one, but no belts to slip. If i mash the throttle from a dead stop in 2nd gear, it will pull the front wheels off the ground. My friend got his 95 2500 4x4(4x4 is messed up) cummins stuck yesterday, and i got out my tow strap, and pulled him out with my foreman. I can take off from a dead stop in 3rd gear easy. If I drive it aggressivley enough the front end almost comes off the ground when i hit 3rd gear. Top speed is not that great, but i dont hardley ever ride on the road, so i dont need that. I have about 4400 miles on it now, and have only had to replace 1 wheel bearing once. If i were you i would check out the rubicon too, but if it were me, i would get a foreman 450s 4x4. They are very reliable, and will do/pull anything you want.

Eric

 

Palmetto, drop me a line about ATV's. I'll let you drive mine. You'll love it. I'm partial to Polaris. Owned two and put them through hell and back without any problems at all. Take is easy man. Later.

 

Well, my dad just bought a polaris 500 sportsman H.O., and its pretty nice. It has the rear independent suspension, and option of 2wd or 4wd.....none of that 4wd assist stuff. And it has a smooth ride. I also like the foot plates. Keeps your feet dry. I just dont like its low end sluggishness. The top end is great, but I keep it at an idle most of the time.

But..........I think I wanna try something else. I dunno,,,I just have never been real crazy about automatics. I like manual shifters, but you dont get the nice protective floor plates. I also want a 4 stroke. I am glad that most of the big bikes these days are 4 strokes, so finding one shouldnt be a problem.

I am definately gonna do my homework and take my time. I dont want to make the wrong decision. Thanks for the input...keep it coming.

 

The Honda Foreman 450 is aweeesome. The new ones can be switched from 4 wheel drive back to 2 wheel drive to save some fuel.

We take ours Moose hunting out in the boonies in northorn Alberta, and these things go anywhere. I've seen many other brands have mechanical problems. I actually have the smaller Rancher 350 with the button shift on the handle--don't get these. Had a branch come up and break the wires then you're toast. Plus, if you shift with the foot you can still carry a unit in your left hand (at least I've seen this done ).

We've also taken the quads out on the snow, and we've had the Foremans pulling other ATVs on top of the snow --could still go faster than my smaller Rancher which tended to sink into the snow with the smaller tires. Well, you asked. I could go on, but I must say I've been impressed with the Honda and don't think you could go wrong. I think they are a workhorse, many of the other bikes may be good rides for speed and racing around, but that's not what you want on the farm. good luck, and have fun.

 

If you want foot plates take a look at MOOSE they make aftermarket plates. I have installed them on all of my 4 wheelers and they give good protection for a small price.

 

Whatever you get, be careful on it. The numbers of death and injuries on these things are growing at an alarming rate!

Rolling 50mph on one and hit a tree, say bye-bye. People just do not realize how dangerous they really are. Good luck and have fun!