Buying first ATV
 

I have the option of a Polaris (800) or a Kawasaki bayou 300(450) or a Yamaha 350 (800). (= price)

All depends on shape and age and what they might need (engine work, plastics, tires, electrical) to run the way you want. I'm partial to the Bayou myself, but if it looked bad compared to the others the extra $ might be worth it.

Those are pretty different machines. Polaris 800 is about twice as powerful as the other two if my memory serves me. Depending on the years and conditions it might be a good or bad buy. What years are the machines and what kind of condition are they in at first glance?

I think the guy means the (800) is the price and he does not mention the Polaris or Yamaha model just the 300 Bayou.

The 350 Yamaha could be a Banshee or a Big bear and the Polaris could be a Sportsman 90 or a XP 1000. LOL

The model, year, and condition will make a lot of difference in which one is better for you.

Agree with everyone else here in that age and condition are huge factors in the decision. A test drive of each of them would be helpful to you also in letting you know which one you're most comfortable on. Take into consideration what type of riding you will be doing, too. From simple cruising on hard pack trails to sand to mud etc., etc. You wouldn't buy a used car without test drive, would you? Kick the tires and talk to the previous owner, (if possible) and get a sense of how the vehicle was treated. Good luck in your search.

No Honda option? Id look at something like a Honda recon, can probably find one of those near that price range. I'm assuming the Polaris is probably a trailblazer or older 2 stroke trailboss and the 350 Yamaha is probably an older 2 wheel drive big bear. Test ride each machine. Make sure it starts and idles somewhat decent. Make sure the brakes work. At that price, better make sure it doesn't smoke. Check to see if it shifts smoothly through all the gears if its not an automatic. Make sure the tires at least hold air and aren't completely bald. Plastic isn't that important, it all ends up getting cracked after a few years as long as most of its there, you're ok. Might be a good idea to bring someone with you who has more experience with atvs to help you look at them and decide which one would be the best choice. They might notice things that you wouldn't see or might not even know to look for.