Whats the consensus on these machines. I know there both great machines but what does it come down to when you go to buy? Who has the cheaper replacement parts also?

 

Both are great machines. I believe it was the May or June issue of Dirtwheels they did a shootout beteen these two with the Kodiak winning.
What they liked about the Kodiak over the 450 was liquid cooling, lighter, slightly quicker, 2 or 4 wheel drive. Despite my attempts to persuade him to buy a Kodiak my brother bought a 450ES a couple of weeks ago. I have rode it and can say it is a very nice machine. I don't think you would be disappointed. The one thing I didn't like was the full time 4 wheel drive. Takes alot of upper body strenght to steer.

 

You will love the Auto trans on the Kodiak! I've had four Hondas and five Yamahas in the past, their both good but I like some of the features on the Yamaha better!! Good luck :-)

 

I test drove both of these machines. The Kodiak did have the easier steering. I almost purchased the Kodiak before getting my Rancher. If you are going to use the quad mainly for work the 450 is the better chioce. If on the otherhand you are going to use it mainly for pleasure the Kodiak won't disappoint you. Both are good choices.

Which quad are you getting the best deal on? You should get a very good deal on the 450 since their sales have dropped some with the introduction of the Rancher.

Depending on which magazine you read, the Kodiak was either ATV of the year or runner up.

Good luck on your decision. Do yourself a favor and take both of them for a test drive.