I'm new to this forum so bare with me please...Currently I've got a Kawasaki Mojave...don't know much about it, except that it's basically the only four wheeler I've ever driven. Went out trail riding this weekend, got to playin in the mud and found out that it's extremely fun and addicting. Only thing is, I want a bigger bike....something that lets me play in some deeper mud.

That said, I've got plenty of general riding experience and I'm not some loon while I ride. I just need some suggestions from a variety of people on what would be a good entry into the 4x4 world of atv's.

With that said, I'm not worried about price....that doesn't mean the sky's the limit, just means I don't want a number to limit suggestions. So...let the fun begin.

 

I would recommend either Kawasaki 360 4x4 (single) or 650/700 (twin). They all have same basic features. Selectable 4x4 mode, electronic engine brake, rear wet brake, shaft drive, cvt, etc. If I were you, I would pick 650 for little more money but lots more bang.
Stay with Mean Green!

 

I would take a look at suzuki, I have the eiger and love it. If I could I would get a King quad the engine is a beast and a nice ride.

 

Or get an AC, they have the same as the Kawi, but more ground clearance for deeper mud!

 

I'm not big on utilities. The whole industry has gone way to large and heavy with these things (death traps in a rollover!). I am selling off my utilities and replacing them with dirt bikes for technical trail riding............

But, for a utility, the Rancher is a descent machine. Also, take a good look at the new Wolverine. Most folks are just looking for a fun trail machine not a farm work tractor, so the Wolverine is a step in the right direction in terms of design.

 

When I started looking for a 4x4 atv I looked and had ridden about all brands makes and models. Polaris, yamaha , honda, suzuki and Arctic cat. The arctic cat was the best I had found for the price it has great ground clearence and alot of features. I would check them out.

 

I would reccommend as an entry level 4x4 with the necessities...The Yamaha Kodiak 450. It is small, nimble, lightweight, has 4x4 with a diff lock, IRS, liquid cooled, and plenty of power to get the job done. There are better 4x4's but for an entry level, the kodiak 450 is my top pick!

-Arctic Cat and polaris are too big for entry level and a begginner!
-Suzuki doesn't offer anything with a diff lock except the KQ700 and that's not an entry level!
-I'm not sure if the Kawasaki 360 has a diff lock or not, but the 650, 700, and 750 does, and again they're not entry level!
-Honda doesn't offer a diff lock on anything!
- Bombardier Outlander 400 is also a good choice, but more money than the kodiak!

My first choice would be the Kodiak 450 4x4, and if you want an entry level 4x4 with diff lock and efi, then the polaris sp500efi would meet the requirement. Otherwise, check out the koidak......

 

Check out the Suzuki Eiger 400. Good solid easy to ride machine. One of the best in the 400 class, according to several atv magazines shootouts. With a stout motor, hi/lo sub trans, pre-wire for winch, dc outlet, etc. it can hold its own against most others. Diff lock is the only thing it is missing. But unless you are doing some serious mudding, it shouldn't be a problem. Hasn't for me, gone thru some pretty nasty stuff. South Mississippi swap fun. Best thing, pick out 4-5 and give them a ride and see what you are most happy with.