Soon to buy, and I'm arguing between the Rubicon 500 and an AC 500. What I want is a toy/hunt machine for myself, and I have a few requirements - reliable, lightweight, solid, 4x4, and a manual.

The Ruby has Honda's reliability, a pseudo-manual (ESP shifting), and is only 600 lbs.

The AC as the full manual and an independent rear suspension, and from what I've read they're made very well. But do they keep running?

I think I'd rather have the Cat, but not at the sacrifice of having it not be there when I want it. Thoughts?

 

Get the Cat man, it rides way way better, its got alot more ground clearance, it can take 28" tires without the need for a liftkit and the transmission is bullerproof. Now the Ruby is a great bike, I'm sure its well built and solid and will last for many years but the transmission is very complicated and they can't be fixed. The tranny I'm sure will fail in about 5+ years and when it does the quad will be totally useless then. I have the 500i and it is so awesome, way better than the 350ES that my friend rides.

 

POS,

I think the cats miss the boat on the light weight issue. Durable yes. Full manual yes. I like the Rubicon but the electronics and water/mud made me nervous. The idependent and ACT rear suspension really set the cats apart in the ride quality from the other quads with swing arms. I've riden both and it is a noticable difference. Price might be another check mark for getting the cat. lastly look at the dealers, one may be better than the other as far as service and repair quality and speed. No since in having the "Greatest" macvhine if it takes 3 weeks to change the oil, plug, and filter or order parts. We're going riding this weekend in Jackson County down by Edna. Check out my web site below for pics of our 400 and 500 cat. Love to have ya come riding some time since you are so close. e-mail if you want to hear more.

Dakota R/T

 

POS,
Where should I begin? My 250 4x4 has been flawless except for the fact I ripped a rear cv boot. I have swamped it once, and generally ride with buddies that have Sportsman 500HOs. The little cat can goeverwhere they can and sometimes more. Yes, cats are heavy and not designed for high speed bombing. But for really four-wheeling they are to beat. When the time comes to trade up I'm going to get a 500i. Hopefully, my spelling is ok (no spell check to use).[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]