I have a two part question. Does anyone run a set of gator tires? How do you rate it?
Also, my 2003 400i is currently in the shop for a fan or light temp indicator.
My question is that I know the pros and cons of owning an auto vs manual but would like to know if the manual has more power and response? My auto has only 28 miles on it and I like it, but it's loud at high speed. I know there is nothing wrong with the atv but it sounds like it needs an over drive to smooth it out. I realize the bike is heavy and geared low and I am not a speed freak but wonder if the manual is a smoother ride?
Also, I have heard of reverse problems with the 03 model (no low gear) and was wondering if anyone has used the reverse over-ride button yet? What is it for?
Is there a big difference after the breakin period or a couple hundred miles for the auto; or should I try and trade for a manual while it's still new?
Thanks for your time!!! [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

I just installed a clutch kit from EPI. It really changed the throttle response. It really pulls better to top speed.

 

want2bemuddy,
#1 I dont have a set of Gators,after alot of researching on about 5 different forums I have decided to go with Mud Bugs.They are supposed to be a better tire due to the rubber compound(their tread pattern is almost identical,I think the Gators were a copy of the Bugs).
#2 My personal opinion on the Manual is that it does ride alot quieter than the auto,I dont know what you mean by smoother.
#3 I dont have the override button on mine it is a 2002.Correct me if I am wrong the button I believe is so you can use reverse in 4 wheel drive and go faster too.Not too sure.
#4 It seems the more miles I put on my 400i the better it is.After 200 to 300 miles the motor does wake up quite a bit.As far as you traqding for the manual you are going to take a big hit if you trade it.They lose their value very quick.
I hope I helped you,sorry I was so long winded.

Vince

 

i have a manual 500and i realy like it. and i also have have gator tires on it and i think they are an awsome tire. mine are 28x10x12 28x12x12. with the 28s i got 14 1/2" of ground clearence
and vhcat400 is rite the mud bugs are almost exactly the same with very little differances except for the price mine with taxes and all they were $700cdn and im very happy with them. and you cant get the bugs in 28" 27s are as big as they get.
but i must say i havent tryed any other tire then the stockers and that was like night and day.
and they are good in all terrains there the best in mud and mountain climbing but they are also very good in the snow.they havent failed me yet.
and as for a smooth ride i set my tires at 3 psi and it rides great.
and for noise my cat is not as loud as the auto because the auto has to keep the revs up to maintain speed where as i just pick a gear and put.
but i like the idea of always being in the rite gear with the auto.
with the manual you are always shifting gears. and sometimes i would just like to sit back and push the gas and go but that wont happen with the manual.
now if the cat had the honda tranny where you could pick auto or manual that would be sweet then you would have the best of both.
ps. check out my page and see some pics of the cat in action.

 

Give it time,I have a 400mrp auto i thought there was something wrong with the clutch but all it needs is miles . Got 435 and the thing runs great hope to do some carb work as soon as i can.As for the temp light mine did the same thing they replaced a sencer that was broken by a power washer that is up front above/behind oil cooler

 

I have manual 2003 400I and it does have to high of a reverse gear. When you get stuck it won't back up or even spin the tires. I have also heard the a clutch kit makes a world of difference. Iam going to put one on mine after i get a few more miles (only 250). The manuals do not come with a reverse override button only the auto's do. If i were you i would stick with the auto just because you will loos $$ if you try to trade it in.