I am looking to purchase my first atv. I am 6'2" and 250#, used for hunting and trails mostly and occasional work, as in pull tree out of trail, around the yard and maybe small plowing. Looking for reliability and want to be able to do maintanence and simple repairs on machine myself. Big Bear is $900 cheaper and seems to cover all areas, any input and supporting facts on these two machines will be helpfull.

 

i think you can look at it like this the big bear is like a 1/2 ton truck and the cat is like a 3/4 ton,both will do what you want to do and you wont go wrong with either.the cat is more heavy duty and has a better ride,but $900 is a big difference.look at both and test ride both and see which you are comfortable with.btw i own a 99 AC 500 manual and i'm very happy with it.

 

$900 is a big differance and a 400 is buy no means condidered a small bike.

 

Co:
Frankd was pretty close with his input. Take a look at the AC forum if you get a chance, I've got a few posts up there over the last couple months about working and such, other things I've done with my 'Cat. I've got a rather in-depth write-up on the topic of "Does anybody use AC500 Auto for work?" or something like that, written by Hokey. Granted, it is the Auto, and I'm not sure if you're looking for an auto or a manual, but either machine will definately get the job done. BTW-I'm only 5'10", 230 lbs., and felt "cramped" on anything smaller than the big 'Cat. I've broken my back, as well as nearly every other bone in my body, and the size and smooth ride of the 'Cat really help me out a lot. I tried the 450ES, and there was no way in hell that would have worked for me. It's a nice bike for sure, but the way I felt on it was very uncomfortable. My boss just bought 2 '01 kodiaks, and they're almost a little small for me as well. Just something to think about.

I'd suggest going out and test riding each one, see which fits you best. Compare which features are most important to you, such as wheel travel, disc breaks, suspension, gas tank size, auto vs. manual, selectable 4wd, etc., you get the point. I'd definately recommend getting a winch though for sure. Whatever you decide, both are great machines.

Good luck!

Mike

 

Hey CO,
I hope you don't mind me asking, because I'm a little confused.

A Yamaha 400 or an AC 500? If a 400 is all you think you'll be needing, then why not consider the AC 400.
Yamaha makes a good atv but Arctic Cat makes it just a little bit better in my opinion. I grew up on Yamaha dirt bikes, so don't think I'm being brand loyal.
The Arctic Cat has many more features than the Yamaha; liquid cooling, larger fuel tank and semi-independent rear suspension just to name a few.

Hope this helps your choice.

Ron