I'm considering picking up a new wolverine tomorrow. The dealer has both 06 and 07's I think. I can't find any info on changes between the models other than the color. Is it the same bike, or have there been updates? I'm new to yamaha, so what would be a good price for either? How much hp do the bikes actually make?

Now for the fun.

My last ride was an 03 650 prairie with minor mods: clutch spring; air box; and jetted for elevation... nothing major. I used it for hunting from time to time, but mainly rode the **** out of it on fast trails and jumps. I rode mainly with a raptor and a ds, had tons of fun especially when it was time to pull them out of the snow and mud. Flat out my bike would run an indicated 65 -speedo not gps, and I know how atv speedos are- at over 6500 elevation. So while the utility part was nice, I'm more of a trail rider. But the 4wd is nice, so I'm looking at the wolverine and whatever polaris is calling their 4wd sport. I'm not a big polaris fan tho'.

So, what should I expect from the bike itself compared to the kawi? I see that it is about 100lbs lighter, but I'm expecting less power as well. Is the gearing low enough for occassional crawling and to actually tow/drag an 800-1000 lb animal or will I be burning up belts and tranny's?

I'm leaving tomorrow afternoon for a hunting trip to OK with my friend who I sold my prairie to, leaving me rideless. I only have a couple hours in the am to look at the bikes too hard, so i don't want to spend a lot of time on the wrong bike, so some prelim info would be really appreciated.

 

Comparing from Yami's site, the only difference I see is the front suspension travel dropped from 7.1' to 6.3'. I've never ridden either, so I can't help you compare, but it may not be the best quad for crawling, although it is rated at 1K lbs. towing capacity with the hitch. Also, you should be able to get them from low to mid 5K.

 

I paid 5150 for my 06 out the door in Arkansas. I love my 450 it is great but I wish it had a little more rack than it does. I bought the extra rear rack, a-arm guards, radiator guard and a clutch kit. The wolvy at first here in arkansas would run about 52-53 mph, after the clutch kit it only runs 48-49 I think. It accelerates very fast for a 450 but dropping from a 650 you might feel a little underpowered. I dont think that it could quite keep up with a raptor or a ds (especially modified ones) but you can still ride quick and it handles great, plus you have 4x4. I think I will end up putting some more mods on mine when they are available for power. But there is nothing else in this category really other than the polaris and I wouldnt own one of them if I had to walk, personnally. I know a lot of people swear by them but I have not had good luck with one.