This is my first time buying an ATV, so I have been doing some research before I head to the showroom. I have come up with a few that I like: Let me know if I should look at another company or model...

Use:
Mostly for hunting, riding trails, semi –steep inclines, rocks, mud, etc…

Also what company is the most reliable?

And do you think the dealer would take a little off the top if I buy 2?

Height 5"11 Weight 180

450 Kodiak
Foreman S / ES from Honda
360 4x4 from Kawasaki

 

I wouldn't be scared of looking at the bigger atvs such as the 700 Praire, the 500 Vinnie. For hunting I know people like bigger than smaller. The auto trannies are nice for beginners and the low range and 4wd is a must have. Typically the dealer can take a little off but normally it doesn't matter if you buy 1 or 2... but I would say if you are looking at 2 you should look for one bigger first the one smaller latter, I know alot of people that went out and bought 2 350s and sold one 350 within the first 2 months and bought a bigger one and kept only one 350. the reliablity of the Kawi is right on par with the honda I can not talk about the Kodie because I don't know enough about them. I did drive the 450 Kodi and liked it but I feel the Vincent is better for me and the 700 is above the vinnie in my books, doesn't mean everyone's books. I like the smooth power of the twin, the solid rear axle, the auto transmission, the 2x4 4x4 selector, the diffi lock, the rear brake is first class, the ride is great,... Your dealer is very important, I would deal with a dealer that you like. On the Kawi the things I would watch are the belt needs after market back spring to make it last a little longer. The 360 is a rock and the belt should last a lot longer, on my 400 I got 12000km out of a single belt. Without the spring I would say getting 3200km-5000km on a 700 Kawi out of a belt is average... witch is really long time for the average rider. I personnelly find the 360 lacking power, but I guess I'm used to a twin. You really can not be dissappointed with any decision you make here however keep in mind that Polaris is nice however typically higher maintance than other bikes, and don't get caught in this 5 year warrenty bit.

welcome to the forum and the sport of atving! If you have questions on the Praire feel free to ask.

 

The best thing to do is decide how much you want to spend and then stay within those limits. Read everything you can about the quads in your price range. I like all three of the quads you've mentioned. I try to stay away from the belt drives. The 360 is a belt drive. The main thing I don't like about the 360 is the power to weight ratio. I don't like that the speedo is extra on the 360. The 360 does have a locking diff. The Kodiak also has a belt drive and locking diff. The Kodiak was my second choice when I purchased my quad. I bought the Foreman because it was out for a while and thought as being reliable. It's also pretty simple. So far, I really like my Foreman. You'll know which one you want after a little reading and looking. I would look close at the Bomb Outlander 400 and maybe the Suzuki Eiger 400. The Outlander has been getting really good ratings. The Outlander would probably have the top speed of this group. I think Bomb. offers a longer warranty period than other companies.

I haven't bought two quads at one time. So I don't know if they'll give a better price. I would try to get a great deal either way. (If you buy 1 or 2) I think I would price one quad, calling around and visiting different dealers. Get an idea what a good deal is on one and then you'll know if it helps to buy two. You might want a different kind for a second quad. I would find a dealer that seems decent and develope a good relationship through the first purchase. Then go back to buy the second quad and hopefully they'll take care of you. If something negative occurs then it didn't happen with two quads.