I want to buy a quad for mountain trails. Might ride 2 on it sometimes. It happens. I'm just looking to go out, have fun, and be able to get up in the mountains, busted knee keeps me too much at sea level! In my area Polaris is common, but I was thinking Honda might be a better machine. Help!!! Can anyone give me some sound advice between the two? Really truly which is the better machine? Also I was thinking about the 500. I'm pretty small. But since I was thinking of taking a friend ...... and camping gear .....? I'm all eyes. I need good advice on this one. Right now I take my Jeep and I'm ready for something smaller! Thanks, Ami

 

Boy, thems the kinda questions that can start a war!!!...Which is better??..I think the Polaris will outperform Honda, but I think Honda is a more reliable machine. That's my opinion.

 

Regarding reliability Honda is #1 while Polaris is dead last.
Other points: Polaris has better ground clearence, gets better traction due to independent
suspension, has a better ride. the Polaris has an integrated brake system ( front & rear on 1 lever). The honda has a superior transmission, independent braking.
Either of these will do a good job for you, Depending on dealerships in your area you might
also consider the new Suzuki Vinson (also a 500cc machine)
I hope this helps, good luck

 

Thanks for the reply! I knows it can start one big war!!! Problem is I want Polaris be the machine Honda makes! I want reliability but I want that independent suspension, higher wheel space, and engine braking system of Polaris on the Honda. That's my dilema!!! [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

I see whatcha mean. I want the Polaris but I want it to be reliable like the Honda. Never considered Suzuki Vinson. I'll look around. These are tough decisions! I use to live in Indiana! Thanks, Amy

 

It sounds like from your reply that you should look at the Arctic Cat. IRS, Same braking sys as Polaris with good reliability. 500 / 400 or 375cc 2wd / 4wd options 500 & 400 are water cooled
375 is air cooled. Nice ride great traction.

 

Keep in mind Artic Cats are still fairly new to the ATV market and are not to popular. So I do not know how there reliability could be rated so great. Every one is going to have some problems (Honda does seam pretty bulit proof). Do the proper Maintainance and your problems will be at a Minumum. Polaris makes good machines, and don't be affraid of them due to what others say. Even if there uncle's cousin's step brother's son in law's best friend had a lot of problems..... you get the picture.

Most people that you talk too, that own them, LOVE THEM.
Do the proper Maintainance and your problems will be at a Minumum NO MATTER WHAT BRAND IT MAY BE.

Also ARTIC CATS and POLARIS are made in the USA

 

Well Ami, you answered your own question.

Honda reliability but with IRS and engine braking.
The Honda 650 Rincon will be out late this summer and has those features and more. Honda hasn't given an official price yet. It's a wait and see.

The Rincon will have a transmission like a car. It's not like the one used on the Rubicon 500.

 

Thanks,
Wish they'd hurry with it! [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

The 500 honda is still a fairly new machine and it's automatic transmission is not perfect...YET...i'm waiting another couple of years then i'm buying the 500...