I am about to buy a new machine [first one] and am having a really hard time. I thiught i had it figured out but the more I look the harded it gets. I have the list down to four. AC 300 4x4 [Independant suspension/selectable 2/4wd] Honda 350ES Great reputation but not indepedant susp. Kawi 300 Prarie Top Speed 42MPH may not keep up with buds and no Independant. Yamaha Big Bear 2000 model no independant. These bikes all price out within $300 of each other. Not owning an ATV in the past, it will be hard to predict what type of riding I will be doing. Any thoughts at this point will help.

 

Do yourself a huge favor and find
a way to get the Cat 500 auto.
You will never regret the extra expense.
It is so much more capable than those you have listed.
My only other suggestion for consideration would
be the Polaris Magnum 500 because of the push
button 2wd/4wd selection. It is great feature.