I have been considering going to a utility quad but I still want to have some fun, the 650 is at the top of my list. I was just wondering how sporty the beast really is and is anybody having any major problems with this beast. Any kind of info or comments are greatly appreciated.

 

It really is not problematic. Some people have had problems, but it does not appear to hit many people. I have not had problems.

The stock tires could be better, and you need to get stiffer front springs if you want to do sportier stuff. But it is way ahead of the other choices you have.

It will cost you less money to unlock even more power if you want it. The 650 has been more detuned than others. Simple mods are making it scream.

 

I went from a 2002 400 EX to a 2002 650 Prairie and I have no regrets at all. It is a sporty bike for a utility, and it is much more practical than a 400 ex. I'm glad I made the switch.

Mitch
02 650 Prairie
26" mud bugs
kawasaki cargo box

 

I ride my 650 with 2 friends (a modified Warrior and a modified 300ex) and have no trouble keeping with them. I have to switch to 2 wheel on the whoops and my style is a little different than them, but in the end they never run away and often chase me. It's really great when we hit mud, hills or hard pack....you can't beat the power of the 650 or the 4 wheel drive! The only guys to watch for are DS650s, Raptors and Cannondales or the occasional Banshee (that is until any of them hit mud or a really long and steep climb)! The tires and shocks will work ok unless you're really nuts!

 

Oh yeah...I forgot....you really smile when they have to find reverse gear when they are stuck on an uphill!

 

MEDSKER, I have considered selling the 400 I have now and going strictly Prairie route. I have ridden both quite a bit and the Prairie is definitely the most fun utility quad ever. It's more like a sport quad with racks and an auto tranny. I'm still a little reluctant to give up my clutch and wheelie poppin 400EX.

I ride the same as myself and I know I could not ride a Prairie on the trails faster than I ride a 400EX. HA!HA!

But, I doubt you would regret it very long, the Prairie is an awesome machine. No problems so far here either.