I just bought a bearcat which was sold as a 1998. I got it home and saw that it was a 1997. Even on the papers it said it was a 1997. I talked to the person before all this and they said right to my face it was a 1998. Anyways if you know, the 1997 models had a bunch more problems then the 1998 models. I saw one post that a 1997 bear cat owner transformed their machine into a 1998 model but just upgrading to the new parts for it or somthing. It has 2200 miles on it, is that bad? What most common problems are their with these 1997 models? How do I upgrade to the 1998 parts wise. Any information, suggestions or anything will help!

 

I had a 98 500 that I put 4,000 miles on before I sold it to my friend and I had no problems. I think the only difference in the 97 and 98 was the carburetor. There may be a few more things different but not much. I believe the 400, 454 and 500 were all based on the same bottom end just different bores.

 

lol i like these people who haven't had much experience. for one welcome to the sight and for two you will be just fine i am sure that if it was well maintained you won't have any problems with it. oh and 2200 miles is very low miles for that year. if i have a decent year i will put on 1200 miles on in one year which isn't as many as alot of ppl put on.

 

I personally have never seen a bearcat. But I can imagine the process of conception. Talke about a fight.

 

Who are you referring to?

 

nofear

 

Come on guys, you have any advice?

 

i am not really that familiar with that year of the cats but i do believe that they didn't change much from 97 to 98. how much did you pay? if it looks like it is in good shape i wouldn't stress i always heard the first cats were very good machines. and the cost difference between it being a 97 compared to a 98 would be maybe a couple hundred dollars at most.

 

I agree with the weez, If you want a good all around work horse, than this quad will give you years of service. If you are looking for a high speed trail master or a deep mud king, you may want to up-date to a newer year.

 

Yea but the problem for this atv is I cannot find anywhere online where they sell parts for this atv. Any ideas?