I've only driven two ATV's (both Polaris') and both were automatics. However, now that I'm in the market for my own ATV I'm not so sure I want an automatic...

Which is better in the long run? I don't want something that will be a thorn in my side after I'm no longer a beginner. I will be using the ATV for light utility, hunting, and trail riding. I'll be taking it on very few dunes but I'd be lying to say that I wouldn't try it out on a few.

Thanks for the info!

 

Ya know what I say, I say keep it simple if you want extream durability and almost no matinence I would go with the semi-auto or manual but with the manual you have to worry about the clutch. (but im sure you knew that) There has been too much speculation on wheter or not the polaris auto drivetrain system really works all that good. And there is a lot more matinance involved in keeping them working.I have a Honda Recon with semi-auto and an old Yamaha Moto 4 with semi auto and I have not done a spec of matinence to either one of the transmissions (except change the oil of course) and the transmission on the Yamaha is 14 years old and is still going strong.
Personnaly I would go with the manual