After checking out both models, it appears to me the only difference is the engine (both weigh the same). So which model has more power? Or are they about the same? I'd like to hear some unbiased feedback... not the usual "my quad eats up banshees" stuff.

 

I have a scrambler 400 and like it becuase it is a 2 stroke. People have said that the 400 takes off faster than the 500. Also you can get more hop ups for the 400. Myself, I think the 400 would win in a race against a 500. Again my opinion. There was a topic very similar to yours a while back agianst 400 and 500's.

 

I'd say. Go to a dealer, ride em both!

then decide. It's a 4 stroke world!

 

Two months ago I bought the 400. I really wanted the 500 because I thought bigger was better. But I was used to the "snapiness" of the 2-stroke engine. Everyone suggested the 400 because of this and the possible mods in the future. When I first bought the 400 I found that it lacked low-end power. I added a clutch kit from EPI and reed valves from Delta. This quad is totally different. It has a lot of low end grunt and a lot more acceleration. I topped it out around 60 mph which is plenty for me.

It all comes down to personal preference. The 4-stroke (stock) has more low end grunt. The 2-stroke is a bit "peppier" but lacks low end. They are dead even in drag races. If you want to eventually put mods....which you probably will... the 2-stroke is the best choice. The 500 is already pretty much up to it's peak from what I hear. It all depends on you.

I know where you are coming from...such a hard decision. Try both at the dealer and choose the one you like to ride the best...after all the ride is 95% of the experience...

 

I would say It depends on whether you like two or 4 strokes. The 2 stroke can be modified more as the others have said. If tight trails were going to be driven on I would go for the 4 stroke. Due to the low end of the 500. As for speed I hear that they are a dead heat or possibly the 500 takes it in stock form. that 400 2 stroke motor is awesome! my friends 400 Xpress will flat out hammer.

 

The 2-stroke is quicker and snappier but will not has as much torque. It is a personnal preference to which you like. I prefer a 2-stroke because there are tons more perfomance parts available and not much for the 4-stroke.

 

Both are good for about anything, but if you do a lot of riding on trails where you aren't going too fast or revving high, the 4-stroke does better power wise and it's plugs last longer. The 2-stroke is better if you want to modify.