I getting ready to buy a 400 manual to go along with my yamaha ( no brand loyality here) The dealer only has the IRS in stock so I havent had a chance to drive the live axle version. Is the extra money for the IRS worth it??

 

the irs is sooo nice and comfy to ride, and clears big rocks or stumps without them hitting underneath from the added ground clearance. So in my opinion its worth it

 

Yes, get the Independent, if I want to sport it around I just tighten up my rear springs! Handles like a dream!

 

For ground clearence and less body roll yes it is worth it. for better articulation of the suspension the ACT is still the best. So, if you're riding slower over rough terrain then get the ACT if your just trail riding and want to sport around the IRS will have less body roll. The ride is great on either machine. I actually think the ACT has a softer ride, but it is a very subtle difference.

 

I got my cat in 2000 because where I ride I needed more ground clearance than what the other brands offered back then. Now the irs offers even more. Cool!! When my 2000 is ready to be put out to pasture (which could be some time) I'll definitely get the independent rear suspension.

 

I too would go with the IRS, my dad has the 2000 Cat 500 with ACT, and that is a great suspension too. IRS is just a lot better. I think it is only a few hundred dollars more, and in 5 years you will be glad you went with it.

 

I would get the IRS. The 400i is probably the best all around value you can get in a 4x4. Has all the things the 500 has, just a bit less power. And of course, it has plenty of power compared to its class. I don't think there is a better bike in the 350-450 class.

 

Except for the Suzuki Eiger, that is...

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ACT is the same ride with less ground clearence. The ACT spinns the tires more.

 

Why would the ACT spin tires more? You would actually think the FIS would spin more (Im not an expert, I dont know..just thinking it through in my head). I also like the idea of being over 3 inches narrower with the ACT than with the FIS.