My wife and I are looking at a new pair of utility quads from the 2002 lineups.

She wants a 400 4x4 and I am looking at 500+ 4x4. We have narrowed down to Yamaha (Grizz and Kodiak) or Arctic Cat (500i and 400i). We both love the ride of the independant suspension (front and rear).

I am attracted by the AC pricing, but have heard some rumors about problematic engines. Aren't they made by Suzuki? Also, I would love to get some testimonials from current owners.

We intend to do some fairly serious trail riding here in Idaho and I will be pulling loads. My wife LOVES mud riding and I expect she'll be neck deep in it at every opportunity.

So, given all of that, what do you all think?

Thanks,

 

Both of these are brand new quads. I have a Polaris 500 Sportsman and I love the independant suspension. The other quads you mention look great on paper. But as of this time I don't think anyone can really give the answers you and I both would need to consider a purchase. On the basis of both companies past quads you would probably be alright with either.

Gardner10

 

Suzuki does make the Articat 500 engine..do not know about the 400. The Articats are GREAT trail busters! I would by the Kodiac but would wait for next year's Griz (don't like first year machines) so the little quirks will be gone. The Raptor has had some kinks worked out for the second year of production. Personally I prefer the Articat but you need to RIDE both and decide. The Kodiac was the 4x4 of the year last year. Look at Polaris also. They make sonme really nice (well suspended) riding quads. My 1993 has been going strong for 8 years.

I am buying a 2001Sportsman 500 HO next week.