I haved owned a 450es for 2 years now and i/m thinking of trading in for a rubicon. Is their a real difference between the two except for the automatic tranmission. What's the power/ride difference? Thanks for helping me with my decision.

 

The ride is better, but not that much better. The power is far superior to that of the 450. The difference in ground clearance and suspension is greater as well.

In every aspect I can think of the Rubicon is a far superior machine.

 

Three halogen lights, heated carb, aluminum wheels no noise in ESP shifts, great compression braking, dry sump oiling, 4 valve 4 stroke, underhead cam engine, bigger seat, liquid cooling and the fan draws air over the radiator and oil cooler that's attached, SureTrac differential, 330 watt AC generator. But, everyone likes different features. SO, best to ride them both and see what YOU think and want to spend.

 

Rubicon, the latest in technology with more bells & whistles.

450 good solid quad.

The Rubicon has the best tranny in the businees, it is quiet & smooth

Drive the Rubicon & you will see the difference.

 

The Rubicon has more power, it can take the 450 in a drag by like a good 4 quad lengths. There is no clunk in the esp mode, even if you don't let up. The seat is softer, and the machine is bigger size wise. The engine compression breaking is awesome, you can idle down steep hills at 2mph if you want, try that with a Polaris. I think if it proves to be Honda reliable it is one of the best new utility atvs made.
As for trading up that depends if you think the little increase in speed performance is going to be worth the price you will have to pay. You don't see me on a Raptor, and that is the main reason. That and I not sick of my 400, and the thing only loses a part here and there besides the scheduled maintenance.