I am looking to buy a Honda 4x4 fourwheeler and can't decide betweeen a rancher 4x4 with manual shift or a foreman s. Is there any disadvantage or advantage to all time 4x4 over being able to shift in and out of 4x4. I mostly want it for riding trails, mudding, and in the snow.

 

The main disadvantage would be less of a sporty ride. (Being able to do donuts or kick the back end out.) The stearing is also a little bit easier while in 2 wheel drive. You could always get the Warn 424 that allows you to shift from 4 wheel to 2 wheel drive. (for the Rancher)

 

i have a rancher and that is one complaint. the front end always driving. how complicated is it to install a warn 424?????[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-confused.gif[/img]

 

I chose the Rancher because it is the SMALLEST and LIGHTEST Honda with 4X4. (I just don't like the trend in the industry, toward bigger and heavier ute bikes.) I changed to ITP Holeshot tires on their 12X7" rims, and it is a whole different bike from stock! I don't ride it like a ute as much as I ride it like it is a GO ANYWHERE SPORT BIKE!

The 450 is another step up in both size and weight, so not a plus for my purposes. I would chose the 450 however if I was going to use it for a work quad as well as trail riding. Either one is dead solid reliable.

 

I've never used a 424 so I don't know everything that is involved with the installation. You might want to open a new topic asking the same question and/or do a search about the product. I really don't think it is all that difficult. I think you replace the shaft with the 424 shaft and run the cable to the fender to switch it in and out. There have been one or two threads (that I've seen) about the correct cable adjustment.