[This message has been edited by AC454 (edited 08-13-1999).]

 

I'm unaware of any anti-Arctic Cat 300 conspiracy rampant in the ATV motor sports press, AC454.

The engine (and center of gravity) of the AC 300 (and Suzuki King Quad/Quadrunner 250 4X4) sits further rearward than in other quads, permitting a "transaxle" drivetrain and independent rear suspension.

Because the center of gravity is further to the rear, the front end of this type machine is more inclined to lift earlier on steep hills than quads with their centers of gravity located farther forward. This fact results from geometry and physics, not any press bias.

The center of gravity location is merely a characteristic to consider when riding an AC 300 or Suzuki counterpart (especially when hill-climbing), not a damning, dooming design defect justifying rejecting these fine machines.

I rode with Eric (The King Lives!) Baatz on his King Quad at Cochranton; a course consisting of about 40 miles of hills punctuated with exquisitely slimy mud (videos available). I came away with a profound respect for this independently-suspended quad in the hands of a skillful rider.

Tree Farmer

[This message has been edited by Tree Farmer (edited 08-13-1999).]