Im gonna go to an auction with a few ATV's. There is an 97' polaris 425 magnum 4X4, a 96 Yamaha Big Bear 4X4 and a 95 Honda TRX300 4X4, the polaris seems like the best riding and most powerful but i have heard that it has three drive chains and is a pain to maintain. I want to use my quad for hunting, crossing swamps now and then but it will mostly be used in the winter out on a lake. I need something with enough power to plow or drive through a considerable amount of snow. I have found that the True Polaris four wheel drive on newer models makes a big difference in where they can go, but i need a reliable machine. I am wondering about the 4X4 systems on the other two quads and about their reliability. As well seeing as I have only a couple of hours to decide if I should bid or not, what should i look for on these quads to tell me if they are in good shape or not. I will not be able to talk to the original owner and it is possible I wont be able to hear it run. Thanks in advance for any thoughts. Also at the auction are a few other quads including a 95 polaris 400, a 95 yamaha big bear, 96 yamaha timber wolf and some older 300TRX's Im guessing that the 96 honda is my best bet though?

 

Go with the Honda. Polaris quads are garbage (belt drive) especially the older ones that have an unknown history.

Second choice would be a Yamaha.

Look all the quads over well and make your choice

PS Honda = Bulletproof Reliability

 

The honda trx300 4x4 is a mule. It will take anything you can dish out and ask for more. It doesnt have as much power as some larger machines, but it gets the job done. Good luck.