how does the tao tao stack up aginst the big boys like yamaha, kawasaki etc

 

They don't, parts are hard to come by, reliability is extremely questionable. Do your self a favor and take your time and look for a nice brand name that you can get parts for. If you prefer working and repairing rather than riding then they might be OK. Do your research before buying anything!!

 

not sure about the bigger units but i find the kids machines extremely reliable. Have had 2 with nothing more than general maint and some normal wearing parts

 

Your luck can vary on these chinese ones.

I buy and sell quads. Find them cheap, fix a few things and sell them.
I try to stay away from the chinese ones. Once one thing breaks, everything goes downhill.
You can pick up a name brand 200-250 quad in the neighborhood of $500-800 used if you look long enough.
To give you an idea, I bought a 1998 Sportsman 500 4x4 two weeks ago for $500.
Deals are out there. Don't settle.