Folks -

I am going to be looking at the two models noted. If anyone could provide some "unbiased" opinions as to the pros and cons of purchasing either, I would greatly appreciate it.

I will be mostly using the unit for snow plowing, towing utility trailers, and basic general chores on a small farm. Trail riding would be very minimal.

Thanks for any constructive input on these two models

 

If you are buying new then the Prairie 400 is no longer available. The Prairie 360 and 700 are available.

The Prairie 360 is only $300. cheaper than the Foreman 450S. The Prairie has 71 less cc's than the 450S but still weighs 22 lb. more than the 450S. The 360 only weighs 9lb more than the 450ES. I do like that the 360 comes with a locking diff. but I haven't really been in a situation where I'd actually need the locking diff. The 450ES would retail for around $500. more than the 360. The Prairie comes with disc brakes so that's a plus but the belt drive auto would be a negative for me. I just wouldn't want to deal with it if water got in there or something.

I think that the Prairie 400 used to retail for $5999. and weighed about 606lb with around 391cc's. Just MAYBE you might be able to find a leftover 400. It would probably have to be used.

So now I just noticed the 00's in front of the quads on the title of the thread. This changes things slightly and I don't feel like changing what I've written so I'm leaving it.

I don't know too much about the Prairie 400. I don't think it had engine braking. The Foreman has been changed a little since 2000. (Things like the shock adjustment and selectable 2 to 4x4.) If you did get the Foreman then you might want to add a 424 kit. Really it would probably depend on which one is in best shape at a better price.

 

my freind has the foreman, it will pound the prarie.

 

I looked at both before getting my 02 Foreman S. I like them both, and had narrowed it down to just those two. I liked the bells and whistles of the Prairie (particularly the front dif lock trigger). But in the end chose the Foreman for the Honda reliability,muscle, torque, and the fact that it's built like a tank! For real chores, I don't think it can be beat. I have NEVER regretted my choice.

I know that this response is not entirely unbiased, but it's difficult to be neutral when I think that it's a great machine! Hope it helps. Good Luck with the tough choice!