Hi, I created a topic earlier becuase I was looking for an ATV for someone my size (5'4' 90 lbs.) and alot of people said the Honda 250EX, but I have a question, what about the Honda Recon? I did alot of research and I learned that they are almost the same. I would much rather have a utility and my Dad and I both think the racks would be vital for hunting and camping. What do you think?

OneWolf

 

I prefer utilities to sports for all around use. Especially if you do some hunting or hauling. I would go with the Recon if you're even considering the benefits of racks. Also, check the prices for a Rancher 350. It sounds like the Recon is a good size for you but if you can find a 350 for a little more it will allow you "room to grow". Good luck

 

If you need racks or fenders for protection from mud, then the Recon is a better choice. Keep in mind that those racks weigh a hefty extra 50 pounds (especially to a kid that only weights 90 pounds!), so that is a big factor to consider. Plus the Recon is a little more narrow, and therefore a little less stable. Personally, I just don't trust the ES shifting system. I prefer to keep it simple and shift manually........just less to go wrong.

 

Reconranger has some good points and it looks like more experience with quads than myself. As far as the ES on the models, I've dealt with two Ranchers with the ES system and never had an issue. It has worked very well. Along the lines with what reconranger said though, more "electronic gizmos" can certainly lead to more problems.

 

Onewolf, I have owned both and currently have a 2005 recon and like it more than the sport 250 ex.Almost as nimble as the sport with racks which is definitly a bonus.Its definitly not a "sport" quad but if your using it for hunting,it is a great quad...good luck.

 

It defanatly can lead to more problems, but what I just found out is that the 2006 Recon ES comes with an auxilary shift lever in the onboard toolbox, incase you ever have any issues.

OneWolf

 

Actually, that emergency shift lever isn't made to be left on (it has no bolt to hold it in place). It is just intended to get you into some rideable gear (probably second), so you can limp home.

 

If you get a recon make sure u just get the recon dont just the es's shifting many problems with my neighbors.

 

i learned (the hard way) that the electronic shift only works with a healthy battery. hopefully the battery and a trickle charger will take care of it...but the jury's still out. if i were doing it over again, i'd prolly stay away from the es unless you're gonna get the extended warranty (which btw is easily transferrable to subsequent owner).

 

i have been seeing that the recon is a great quad.. was going to get that to the addition of my rancher. but once the sportclutch came out adn the 450r styling of the new 250ex.. i am totally in for it.. i already have a nice utility quad so i think i am going to get a 250ex next.. just so i have a sport and a utility.. the utelity for the harsh trails and the sport for playgni around

go and get the recon.. the es hasnt given me much problems yet... hope you luck..

by the way how old are you?.. your only 90 pounds.. jw..