I'm in the market for a p650. I plan on keeping it a long time assuming it runs well and is as reliable as it sounds. Local dealers still have '02 p650's in stock as well as '03's. I know there were a few technical changes, but am new to atv'ing and don't really know the significance of them. What do people think would be the better way to go, assuming I can save a few $$ on the '02?

If the '03 is technically better, how much savings difference would it take to sway you to buy the '02?

 

The only differance is the 03s have a darker red{if your looking at a red one} and a differant air filter design. Id get the 02 if it is cheaper, and it probley is since its technicly lastyears model.

Andy G

 

Ok I found this text from a 650 review article on sportquad.com. It looks like they added the trailer hitch as standard equipment, and changed the skid plates to aluminum from steel. Is this new airbox that much better etc? Are the new aluminum skid plates weaker or are the stock plates worthless alltogether?



"The differences between the 2002 model and the new 2003 are:

Trailer hitch is now standard
Skid plate material changed from steel to aluminum

Air filter assembly changed from flat surface to oval surface, providing 30% more surface area

Air box assembly changed to accommodate new air filter

Check belt light added to display

Firecracker Red with silver accents changed to Aztec Red with bronze
accents

Front belly pan also changed to aluminum (rear-most swingarm guard
remains steel)

Various "software" changes making it easier for dealers to diagnose
engine/drivetrain areas at pre-defined service intervals or whenever
service is needed

New engine brake actuator design to make it easier to reset actuator
arm whenever the CVT cover is removed for servicing or belt replacement"

 

Dang I forgot about the hitch being standard now.

I didnt know about the plates and the software but I doubt that would make any real differance.

The airbox is differant but I dont believe it flows anymore air. Its just designed to allow for the taller filter.

Yes I had rather have the new filter but I bet you can get the 02 for 500 bucks less than the 03 and for that amount of money Id stick with the 02.

Just my 2 cents [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

Andy G

 

Since I plan on keeping the thing a long time, I dont know how much it matters to me what year it is. I do want a hitch though.

I don't have the means to make the tool to do the black spring. Think the dealer would install one and set the belt deflection, or a local florida forum member over a 6-pack? =] (not a 6pack with the dealer , hehe)

 

You can get a hitch for the 02,its just not standard.

The only thing you really need to make Nyrocs spring compressor is a hacksaw to cut a notch out of the plastic end cap. Actually you need a drill too with about a 1/2 inch bit. A couple holes in the cap make cutting the top part easier but you could get by without it.
Your Kawi dealer could put the spring in but they're going to charge at least an hours labor to do it.

Andy G

 

One more thing...
From what Ive read on this and other forums,most dealers dont have a clue about adjusting the belt.

Andy G

 

ha, or maybe the next time I roll thru southaven MS I'll be able to persuade you to gtg for a install and ride ;-) Sounds good thanks for the info. If the dealer offers me the '02 with a hitch installed at a significant savings, or say throws the trailer in with the '02 for the same price as the '03, that might be the way I go. Thanks andy.

 

Once i get the prairie, i'll do my best to figure out how to do all of the maintenance myself. You don't have to make the tool to do belt adjustments do you? Is there a service manual that explains it all or do you think I'd do better just catching a forum member in person or on the phone and walking thru it one time?

 

LOL swing on by and I'll do the install for you.

The only tool you have to make{or buy} is the spring compressor. Once the spring is off, all you need is a flathead screwdriver to get the clutch apart and the shims out.

Just about everything you will ever need to know is on Nyrocs website at http://atv.dnsalias.com/ in the tech tips section.

You can by a Kawi service manuel but you can probley find out most everyting you need to know right here.

Andy G