ATVConnection.com

Dear ATVC:

Norf Georgia

Well the simplest answer to that question would be to go with a 2013. Why? Because not only is it the latest/ most refined version of the machine, it’s also going to come with factory warranty should you purchase it new.

Assuming you’re curious about used models, however, you should take comfort in knowing that the Grizzly has a long and proven history and that no particular model year was known for having problems.

The vehicle’s heritage can be traced back to 1998 (the Grizzly 600) that used an already proven motor from the XT600 motorcycle.

It became the Grizzly 660 in 2002 when Yamaha decided to integrate another time proven engine of theirs (the 5-valve 660 from the Raptor). It also went from a single shock to fully independent rear suspension in transitioning from 600 to 660.

From there you’d be hard pressed to find any changes made all the way up until 2007 when it became the Grizzly 700 and included such perks as fuel injection and EPS (Electric Power Steering). This is the top of the line Grizzly still offered today.

So in short, you really can’t go wrong with whichever year you decide. Base your choice on budget, location and the condition of the individual specimen in question.

Got questions for us? Ask them here!

Spring is almost here and we’re still scouring SprocketList in the hopes of connecting you with a good deal on a previously loved ATV or UTV of your dreams.

To that end, this week’s find takes us to a place called Lititz, PA.

According to the listing this is a 2011 Yamaha Grizzly 700 SE EPS, FI (that’s electronic power steering and fuel injection to you and I), with 404 miles (59-hrs) on the clock.

Perks include hard storage case with lock, Warn 2500lb winch, hand guards, aluminum a-arm guards, 2″ hitch, clear title, aluminum OEM wheels.

The seller is looking for $6,000 and is considering trades.

Dear ATVC:
What was the very first utility ATV made?

This question is a bit difficult to answer simply because people have found a way to use their ATVs for work purposes since the creation of the ATV. However, the first machine generally regarded as having been built at the OEM level for utility purposes first and foremost was the 1982 ATC200E, or as it was more commonly known: “Big Red”.

With an air-cooled 192cc engine and five-speed dual-range gearbox, electric starting (backup recoil), dual racks and a 9.2-liter storage box, it was clear Honda had listened to farmers and field workers who were modifying their ATC185s for work.

Additional features included a sealed rear drum brake designed to keep muck out and a telescopic fork. Honda added a reverse gear in 1984 and the drive chain was replaced by a shaft for less maintenance, increased durability and a smoother ride.

It’s a far cry from today’s technologically laden 4-wheel drive, power steering equipped, liquid cooled, fuel injected utility ATVs but the Big Red serves as the foundation for all utility-oriented ATVs that followed. It should also be noted that Honda has resurrected the “Big Red” moniker in 2009 for its side-by-side models still being produced today.

Got questions for us? Ask them here!

It’s snowing out there, it’s blowing but your ATV Connection editors aren’t going to let a little thing like 9-months of winter slow us when it comes to hunting down good deals on previously-loved ATVs.

In fact, when it comes to ugly conditions, that’s when the deals get really good. Each we browse around SprocketList in the hopes of finding a tight deal on a good used quad and this week’s entry takes us to a place called Joplin, MO.

According to the listing, this is a 2008 Arctic Cat 400 4×4 Automatic with Independent Rear Suspension (IRS).

The seller states this atv is like new, hardly ridden, new battery. He’s looking for $3500.

If forced to identify one good thing about the riding season coming to an end, we would have to say that that’s when the good deals start surfacing on new & used ATVs.

Each week we rummage around Sprocketlist in the hopes of finding some good deal on a pre-owned machine and this week’s entry takes us to a place called Ottawa, IL.

According to the listing, this is a 2012 Kubota RTV 900 XT showing a ridiculously low 15-miles on the clock. “This unit is as close to new as you will find.”

Other features include a diesel engine, 4×4, hydraulic dump box, power steering, a dealer installed snowplow and much more. According to the seller, the plow was $3,900 (installed) alone and the machine was never used for work.

All told the ad‘s lister says he can provide the receipts proving over $22,000 was invested in this beauty but $13,500 can get it done.