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I oosted the same basic question last year ended up with a arctic cat 650 trv 2008 no issue except the pod changed it out and everything runs like a top, moose hunting last year ran it for a week everyday and grouse in the same week . Every make has its issue do your research on the machine my take arctic cat ,honda can am kodiak
Much of it depends on how you intend to use it i.e light riding or rough/steep terrain.
I have a 2005 Polaris Sportsman 400 and use it occasionally for hunting and some snow ploughing. It rides nice and can pull a moose down a trail. It has served me well but I don’t abuse it.
I’ve ridden Yamaha’s and Honda’s and thought they were fine machines too.
If your buying new, consider the warranty-coverage and term. If available, consider purchasing an extension. Not sure if you can shop around for it like a vehicle, but something to think about.
Polaris probably is a better riding machine but Honda will outlast them when it comes to mechanics. Polaris may have a bit more clearance than the Honda but that's little advantage when the snow comes as both can be useless once the snow gets deeper than the axles. Lighter machines can be unstuck easier than larger ones, larger motors increase insurance costs, solid rear axles are rougher riding than independent axles, Hondas will always cost more initially but probably worth it.
Just a few points to consider............
Couldn’t agree more for the op needs. Rancher then Kodiak, both great for durability and resale valueQuote:
Originally Posted by greatwhite
My father has a Honda Rincon and I have a Yamaha Grizzly 700. ITs nice too have the extra power IMO. But too each there own for sure.Quote:
Originally Posted by ysyg
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I do not own one, but had some experience with them.
The main thing i remember from the owners of those i rode-they just about all said: bigger ATV gives more power.Whic may not be needed to pull a moose out on average terrain.
They would tandem 2 ATV to pull each other ,to help on bad terrain.
Their main reasoning was-the size equals weight-the weight equals a whole lot more chances of getting stuck in bad terrain.
400-500 max is what one needs-all of them said.
To each their own though....
Just be careful on buying a used one. I bought a used one from a member here about 6 years ago. I was about 30 min into my first ride on it, and it threw a piston, and caught fire. The whole electrical system fried from the amount of wires jammed in the battery box as well. I bought as is...and unfortunately learned another life lesson......
Agreed. My insurance agent said to keep it under 700cc for better insurance rates. Hunters have been pulling moose out for 40+ years with 3 and 4 wheelers in the 200-300cc range and some with no 4 wheel drive as well. I add the smaller units get considerably better gas mileage to. On a bird hunt last fall we were out for an 8 hour tour, by time we got back to cabin, the 800 was on fumes(didn't think he'd even make it back) the 750 was showing 1 bar and the 450 was just under half full.Quote:
Originally Posted by gbk
All of these posts are right on the money. One thing I've learned in using smaller ATV's to pull out heavy Moose from tight areas is that in this instance,bigger is not always better.;)
I bought a 2018 Kodiak 700 for hunting and have no complaints. Great for riding and having fun too.