Hi, I have two questions. First I am looking for feedback on the Honda 400ex vs. the Honda Rancher 420ES. Just some pros and cons of both and experience you might have had. Second I was wondering if anyone knows the name of the accessory of where to get it that you can put on the 400ex so that you don't have to use the clutch to shift and eliminate the stalling for beginners. I'm going to get a quad mostly for me but want my wife to be able to use it as well. If I can get something for the 400ex so she wont' worry about stalling that would be great. thanks for the help in advance.

Josh

 

The Rekluse clutch is what you want to look into. It is a little pricey. Seriously, I have taught kids to shift a manual in half an hour, so try some lessons first before you go ditching a manual clutch.....

I own both of these machines. Never ride any utility anywhere you can ride a sport quad!!! If the terrain you are riding does not require 4wd and high ground clearanc, then go with the EX....it will be way more fun then any utility on the planet!!!

The EX is a superb machine! Down on power by todays standards (but has hop-up potential), but it makes up for it with great handling. That engine will last forever, with just some simple maintenance. Get the newer model that has reverse, for the little lady. If I could only own one quad that had to do everthing, it woud be the EX!

The 420 is a superb machine as well, but it is a ute. It is heavier and has a higher center of gravity than the EX, yet it is way more stable compared to the huge heavy long travel IRS utes that get all the attention. The engine is snappy and fast! Handling is sharp and precise. You could get ES pushbutton shifting, which would probably make the little lady happy, but that system has been plagued with problems, so it's buyer beware on that one. With the 420, you get more for your $$$ than any other quad on the planet.

So, if your terrain requires a 4wd, then go with the Rancher. If not, then the EX.

Is getting 2 quads out of the question??? The 250EX has a clutch just like the Rekluse!!! And a 400EX for you....and you are set to go. That way you can ride together.......

 

I just picked up my 1st quad since I owned a blaster when I was 14. I have the 400ex. I am VERY happy with it. I highly recommend it! I've ridden sports and utility quads a lot over the years and you can have fun with both buttttttttttt the sports quad is a lot more fun IMO. I'm looking to pick up a 2nd 400ex for the GF. She had ZERO problems with the clutch, she stalls it here and there but its cuz she's still learning.

After the 1st day out you'll want to get another one for you and the Wife. Maybe you should get something for the wife 1st so you can mess around on it then go get yourself something afterwards. http://www.craigslist.org/about/sites.html I bought used [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

I think the recluse is an expensive fix, to a non existant problem. Even my teenage daughters can use a clutch. It just takes a little practice, and if it stalls, no biggie, the motor will start right back up with the little button. Nothing gets damaged, and it might be a bit embarassing, but it doesnt take long, and she will get the hang of it.
Either quad is a good choice, and there probably isnt a more reliable or bulletproof quad than the 400ex. You just need to decide how you are going to use them,...if its just for enjoyment, go 400ex. If you need one that will tow trailers, or go ice fishing, or plow the driveway, then the rancher is much more suited.

 

I'm in agreement here. If possible just buy two quads. That way you can ride together. Great family fun!!!!

I would also recommend a sport.