I've recently inherited a camp in the Adirondack Mtns. and I now need an atv. I need a 2-up so I know this limits my choices, and I don't like the idea of carrying a dump box around with me everywhere I go(Polaris X2)!! It will used 50/50 Trail riding (mainly dirt roads & small trails) and Workhorse (plowing & dragging out fallen trees). I would also like to keep it somewhere in the $8000 range. All input is greatly appreciated!!!!

 

can't go wrong with either choice both good machines. if you wanna be able to go through more mud and rocks then the cat is the way you go and from what i read if you would like to go on flatter ground and go faster through the trails then the max is. for pulling power obviously the 650 has more. for the engine size the bombardier's are more expensive.

 

You are sure to get a "do this" response from anyone replying to your question. If you have not ridden quads before allow this suggestion, as it worked for me. Look on e-bay and buy a smaller, cheap machine. You may find it's not "your cup of tea." But if it is, then you can fleet up to a larger machine and will be able to more clearly define exactly what you want for the riding you do.

If you've got some seat time and know "this is for you," then you're on the right track also. Personally, I REALLY like the two-up machines. From your description, you'll be riding about 1/2 and 1/2, light work and pleasure. Given that scenario, the OL 500/650 Max is a great choice. The reasons for any machines are noted throughout various postings for each type, in the OL's case, stability, comfort, EIF, blah, blah. The AC is more "utility" and tends not to be quite as comfortable and EFI has yet not filtered down to their mid-level machines. AC is a real go anywhere work horse, but would not be as comfortable, or stable (high CG = tippy). It does have a lockable front axle if plowing is a major part of the work you are going to do.

Since I own both, IMO the OL is a much better pleasure rider than my AC, but the AC is a much better "worker." In general day-to-day riding I find I always take the OL. If I know I'm going to be fording some water, riding a particularly challenging trail, or dragging logs, I'll take the AC. The OL also has considerably less mechanical noise and is overall quieter, a plus when riding two-up.

Be sure and think about the dealer you'll be working with. One that is close by that gives you great service is worth either brand IMO. These forums are full of folks that have had very disappointing involvement with their dealers when it comes to service. A good dealer is worth extra money at the time of purchase, and for help later, particularly if they are close-by.

Good luck, you are doing the right thing by asking the question, and there are lots of opinions from the folks reading this.

 

If you decide to go with the AC then there are some simple things that you can do to improve on the trail riding abilities.

First you can put 1" spacers on all wheels. This will give you a wider stance and lessen the "Tippy" factor by bringing the veritcal roll closer to the center of the machine instead of to the outside.

Playing with the suspension and air pressures you can get some sport out of the AC. If you have the stock tires (4ply) you can try these settings.
Front tire pressure 8# and the rear 5#. The pressure on the front tires lessens the tire tendency to roll under while in a turn. With 6 ply tires you can bring that down some.
Preload on the front to the softest setting and up 1 or 2 stiffer for the rear. The soft setting on the front allows the front to plant and put some camber in the wheel. While having the rear a little on the stiff side makes it go loose or lightens the rear in a turn.
I played with my settings for about a year or so, and can actually "dirt-track" around some turns - kind of fun especially with a utility machine.

Good luck and enjoy.

 

I would like to second what Jim said about dealers. There is a Polaris dealership a mile from my house. I purchased my first 2 atv's there (Polaris and e-Ton). After buying 2 atv's, they royally screwed me on a service deal. I was extremely disappointed with them and will never go back to them. Before you buy check around and get some references for the dealerships.

toe