So i was looking into getting a utilty atv with 4x4, around 400cc +, for around $3000. I found some deals on craigslist but wasent quite sure. I found some newer 07, and 10 honda rancher 420 but they are only 2x4. I also found some older (03) polaris sportsman's 500 and 700. They seem nice but they are older and i would prefer something newer. I also found an Honda 500 Foreman ES for $3500 which seems very nice. Any other atv's that would fit my requirements and price range? Any atvs i should stay away from?

 

What year was the Foreman? If you are going to be in deep mud, snow, or doing a lot of steep rocky hill climbs I would would hesitant about the Foreman. Front differential does not fully lock. If you need every bit of traction a true 4x4 can give you this could be a problem. Otherwise, Honda's are reliable but somewhat underpowered compared to comparable models of other makers.

It's hard to find a 4x4 that's less than 10 years old, with a 400cc+ engine, for $3000 or less.

Sportsman 500 is pretty bulletproof as long as it has been maintained. Good all around quad.

 

look into yamahas unless you just dont like them. You might luck up and find a decent grizzly 660 but im sure you can find a 450 kodiak or grizzly for that price they all have diff lock.

 

Its a 2006 and no, i dont need true 4x4, i have 2 quads right now without true 4x4 and they handle fine. Im thinking about the sportsman, Their is alot for sale where i live with some good prices.

 

I love yamaha but i couldent seem to find to many where i live. At least in my price range, though i will defintally keep an eye out for the grizz. Has anyone owned a polaris sportsman? If so how'd it do? Do they last a good while?

 

if you can find one i had much rather have a kodiak 450 than a sportsman... thats just my .02

 

I couldent find a single kodiak in my area used. so far im thinking a polaris sportsman or a honda rincon.

 

the honda is fine if you dont need true 4x4 or a good low gear or if you stay out of deep mud and me personally i stay away from polaris atvs unless they are just a couple years old

 

I go by condition not year when buying used. I Seen a lot of ATVs is better shape and less miles that where 5 years older.

I will take that 2003 that plows a drive way and does yard work or goes out on a yearly deer hunting trip over a 2009 that hits the rough bush trail every single weekend without fail.

I walked from a few 2006 Sportsmans 500 before buying a 2001. No regrets so far.
The guy lived in the City and just could not get out riding much.

 

i completely agree on condition and not year for the most part. But when you can get a fuel injected bike over a carburated one because of "year" i will most likely do it. What im saying is all these companies change major things and most of the time the changes are better so if you can get the one that has the changes i would, esp with polaris, but like i said i wouldnt get a polaris in the first place unless its a late model 850