I'm interested in these two quads and I'm trying to make up my mind but there are a few questions I'd like to pose to people who may already own one of these two quads. I really like the 450's reputation, but I also like the auto tranny of the Rubicon. Thanks for any help!

1. I was thinking about the 450ES because it's air cooled and I wouldn't have to worry about overheating. Are there any such over heating problems on the Rubicon? Ever have to stop and clean mud out of the radiators?

2. Any problems with that complicated tranny on the rubicon? Would you recommend an extended warranty?

3. Do you foresee a Rubicon having the lasting reliability as the 450ES?


Bruce403
2004 V Force
2002 Prarie 650
2000 Banshee

All Twins-twice the fun

 

Both are good machines. if you got the rubicon, an extended warranty couldnt hurt although I don't know of many people that have had problems with that tranny.

I have a '98 Forman 450s, and have had very very little trouble with it. All repairs have really been gneral maintenance, its never left me stranded.

 

I've heard nothing but good about both machines. So, it's just my opinion, I feel like the 450 is the most bullet proof atv ever made. Bar none. I have the ES model and it has been a workhorse since I bought it in 2000. Not one problem, nada. Just start it and go.

I think either machine will give you years of trouble free service. But, the 450 is my pick.

 

I have ridden both and bought the rubicon myself because of the hydrostatic transmission.Liquid cooling actually cools better than air and the rubicon rides smoother as well..

 

Something else to consider (you probably already know but thought I would mention this) is the Rubicon does not have in and out 4 wheel drive unless you add the Warn 424 select device. Something I considered doing if I bought a Rubicon, but alas I went with the Rincon. I didn't like the idea of adding something like that to the drive train. I'm sure there is no problem running it I just didn't like the idea.

As to cleaning mud out of the radiator, the owners manual on my Rincon says to clean it if you go through mud. I'm sure the same holds true for the Rubicon.

Honda's have a great record for being very reliable, I don't think I would worry about the complicated tranny on the Rubicon. I would concentrate more on what you like the best.

Can't go wrong either way, I think you will be extremely happy with either one. I really love that Rubicon transmission but for the riding I am going to do the Rincon fits me better.

Hope this helps you some....

 

They are both excelent machines but i would go with the bullet proof 450 es but whatever u do ride red
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Thanks for all of your input! I've decided to go with the Rubicon and I'll pick it up this weekend. The auto tranny is what has won me over. I found a good deal on a new 03' model. I have two other quads with auto tranny's and I really like them.

Bruce 403
2004 V Force
2003 Rubicon (very soon)
2002 Prarie 650
2000 Banshee