I'm still researching for a new ATV. I like the manual transmission on the Rancher, but I would like to have an odometer and speedometer. How much more maintainence is there with the ES model? Is the ES a "belt drive"? Thanks!

 

es is a full manual, just uses a shift motor instead of your foot, in addition to what u mention, you get full floor boards instead of pegs

i have only had a bug once in 4000 miles, due to a rock knocking the reverse idicator wire loose

 

IF i were to get a honda model with the es or footshift version i would deff get the es. I love the es shifting and it is fun. My cousins have two 99 formans with close to 3000 miles of no probs.

 

The manual shift Rancher has full floorboards on the the '05 and '06. I don't know about earlier models.

 

i also got a rancher with es a 2000 4x4 with 1800-2000 miles i dont recall exacty no major problems Its sweet when riding thru mud or water dont gota have foot down to down or upshift if needed.

 

there are a few known issues with the ES system, but proper care and a good cleaning when done riding will help minimize the issues.

The ES and manual shift are the same, except you shift one with your foot (manual shift) and one you shift with a 2 push buttons on the left handlebar (ES)

There is really no additional maintenance either, other than periodically checking the ECM and shift motor and angle sensor connections for corrosion and damage.