I've talked to a few dealers shopping prices on two new 650's. They are indicating that there are no engine - transmission changes on the 05 that arctic cat is not doing to the 04's at no cost to the owners. The only changes that they are admitting to from 04 to 05 is body style. Some of the threads seem to indicate that artic cat is making changes to the engine transmission to the 05 besides the limp mode problem. Is this just dealers trying to sell off their 04's or is it just a forum wish that arctic cat would offer a manual trans or another choice besides the kiwi trans? The best price I've been quoted so far is $6450. and $69. for a 2500# winch and a 2 year warranty for an 04 which is sure a substantial savings over the 05 prices. No one has a 2005 in stock that they are admitting to but expect them in September.

 

I've looked at the 05 500's and I think the 650 will look much the same,The body style looks good ,they've extended the flares over the wheels to help keep ya clean but it's all hard body molding which I'm pretty sure I'd bust on a tree in tight wooded area's,At least the 04's flares will bend pretty easy without damage.The new ones may be tuffer than they look though. Good luck with your choice

 

They've done something different in the air intake, especially under the nose. I have no idea what they did or why, but they claim it is quieter.