I plan on buying something used and I have ridden motorcycles almost all my life. I am used to riding 1000cc bikes and want something to have fun with my kids. I bought one a 50cc bike and the other a 50cc atv, now time for dad. Anyway I weigh about 190 and am 5'10" and would use the atv for an atv park located down the street from me. They have about 100 acres. I am concerned maybe a 250 would be too small or not enough power. Thoughts or input appreciated.

 

you will probably bored with the 250ex. 400ex is a better choice. powerwise, not many atvs are going to have what you are used to on the road though. you wouldnt want a 450 if you have to go slow ALLOT and watch over the kids. 450s are pretty revvy.

the 400 will be happier going slow and its not a speed demon or nothing (but will do decent when you feel the itch to stretch it out) like that but for this purpose id have to say get either that or maybe a z400; even perhaps a mid ute like the 420 would even be a consideration as it offers a little more verstility away from riding in the park, but it is heavier than a sport bike so you can get overconfident and hurt yourself, IMO, quicker than on a sport machine.

what kind of terrain is in the park?

 

You didn't really say whether you need a sport quad or utility?????

Sounds like you will need to be riding slow with the kids, so forget the 450's! They are all rev, and don't like to go slow. On the other hand, you will get bored on a 250 or 300, and they are a little small for you anyway.

The 400EX is make for your application! It has an engine that will lug down, and doesn't mind being ridden slow. I can put mine in 1st gear, and just idle through the technical stuff. Great high quality ride, and they will run forever is you take care of them.

If you need a utility, then one of the Ranchers. The old 350's (with a Warn 424!) if you are looking for used, or the newer 420 is a real peach!

 

I think I would prefer a sport quad. I could find more use for a utility, but prefer the sport atv.

I need to go check the terrain at the atv park. I have never been there. Maybe I will run the kids down today.

 

Some Utilities are pretty sporty, but all of them will put a smile on your face. On older Rancher 350, or a Foreman 450 will give nice power and decent fun and still work like a horse. I Highly recommend a Warn 424 shifter if the bike does not have selectable 4wd from the factory, its a great unit and in 2wd makes the bike a hell of alot more fun to throw around. I also recommend the manual shift rather then the handle bar mounted electric shift, the manual is just alot more trouble free.

For sport fun with a clutch, go for a 400ex.