i am wondering if a manual would be good for trails and some mudding or would an automatic be better

 

I like manual more for that type of riding.

 

go with semi auto i think they are more reliable than the automatics and easier to use than the manuals

 

I prefer the automatics for the really tight technical stuff. Much easier to use and control

 

I like to shift personally, but some people don't. Ride some bikes and find which you like better. They both have advantages in certain situations.

Manuals give you more control over the power, but you have to know your quad. Only seat time will get you there. After a while you'll know what gear you are in and what gear you need to be in for certain terrain challenges.

Automatics allow you to be in a "close to perfect" gear all the time. But there are times when you need quicker response and an auto just won't give it to you.

Say you are coming up on a ditch you have to wheelie over and you need more power. With a manual you can either feather the clutch or bang down a gear to get more power in a second. With an auto you have to rely on the tranny to be in that range already. Sometimes it is, sometimes it isn't.

 

Well I trail ride sport quads and I just installed a Rekluse clutch in my 450R. Basically, its a auto/manual now. I can start it up in first and just hit the gas to go. No need for the clutch lever. It is VERY nice and just as dependable as regular manual.

 

is with rekluse clutch, u just shift up with ur foot like ur in a semi-auto right?

 

i find manual has more controle for in titer spots and its easer on the brakes but the atamatic is great in the snow and way funer in the mud

 

Manual more dependable more hp to the wheel less problems, ie. belts, elec., clutchs water own both would never by another auto. i am strickly trail & mud rider

 

manual all the way, sure you have to shift but if you want a nice smooth seamless ride you should'nt be on the trails !