For the last couple of months i've been using a friends old 2wd Honda Rancher to pull a harrow around my property. Never realized that it would be so much fun. Went to Cycle World and Petes Cycle in Maryland and the best deal i saw was a 2006 Honda 350 4x4 (new) for about 4,300. seems like a good unit but i noticed honda changed the model to a selective 4x4 after that year. I assume it had problems?? I also saw a 2008 4x4 Honda 420 from Southern Motors for 4,800. Dont feel comfortable dealing with someone far away. Don't do a lot of wild riding and would only use it in my back yard (7acres with hills and wetlands, slow speed with a 9 year old on the back) and everyone is strongly suggesting 4x4. I want to stay with Honda if at all possible. Any advice

 

For years, Honda went with full-time 4X4, for simplicity I imagine. As the market matured, they changed to selectable 2wd/4wd. If that bothers you on the Rancher 350, you can install a Warn 424 to make it selectable.

If all you want to do is put around the yard, I would go with the older 350. The 420 engine is a bit "over square" so it likes to rev. I find it better for fast trail riding, than I do for slow work type stuff. The 350 on the other hand, will lug around the yard all day long.

"I assume it had problems??"............I have a 350 that I bought 10 long years ago! I have never had to do one single thing to it, except for routine maintenance!!! Also have a 420 that is going on three years old now...and it is proving to be just as solid as the 350!

I do however, suggest you avoid the ES shifting option and get the foot shift model