Hey all,

I'm looking for a new 4x4 Utility. We live in the woods (with many boulders) that we had timbered a few years back. I'd like to get something that is capable of pulling all the tree tops and logs, etc. that was left behind from the timbering. But, at the same time, I want to be able to keep the "fun factor" for when I take it trail riding (Which I'm sure will be most all I'll use it for after the woods are cleared out). My wife has given permission :-) for up to a $5,000 atv (not including tax). From my research it has come down to the Suzuki Eiger Manual or the Yamaha Kodiak 400. I kinda decided against the Big Bear because of the reviews it got in the ATV Action shootout that the Eiger won. The Kodiak is a little smaller and more nimble than the Eiger but I'm also worried that the Kodiak 400 won't handle the work without the low range trans. A friend just got a kodiak 400 and really likes it. But, he is using it just for trail riding.

I was hoping to get opinions and maybe even other options.

Thanks

 

I paid 5178 out the door for my 450S, that's a little over but would fit your needs. I think the eiger would be a good choice too. I was quoted 4700 OTD 6 months ago for that.

 

The Eiger 4x4 is a great choice, mine has been great so far! It is a great quad for the money. Its fast, and pulls hard. The 4x4 system is easy and less complicated, just pull the lever down to 4wd and you got traction for the front, its also cable operated so if you have any electrical problems your 4wd wont quit. The low range works great for pulling anything you wont.
You kant go wrong.

 

Don't always believe what you read. Try them and ride them. I'd bet the writers never rode any of the machines they compose articles and info from what they were given by others. Are they BIAS? Nobody knows the answer to that. I remember a shoot out of small quads in some rag magazine it said one of the quads was an automatic and some other stuff about others. They had the info wrong.
Todays fish wrap says Iraq is going to go along with the UN weapons inspectors. Do you believe this?

 

Hey REDBEAR4X4

How do you use your Big Bear? Will it handle pulling out heavy logs? What about the comfort level on long trail rides and high speed riding? That's what the ATV Action shootout gave it negatives for. They said it rides a litter rougher and the engine vibrates a bit more than the other machines in that class at higher speeds.

Thanks for your input

 

bib bear is a good choice too, ive rode honda 300 4x4 that also is a good quad. as far as working the bb400, no problem mine is a great work horse and a fun toy.the kodiak is basically the same as the bb400 but auto, the bb400 is a 5 speed auto clutch meaning just shift, the eiger sounds god but never even seen one. get the winch too you wont regreat it.[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-tongue.gif[/img][img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif[/img]

 

Hey Mick,
Got '02 Big Bear(stock) and use it for exactly what your trying to do. It has done any job I've asked it do. Hauled 12 - 14 cords of wood so far this Fall. No matter what you get, I'd suggest building a drag to keep the nose of the log from digging in to the ground(This is the only thing that will hold you back.) Paid $4700 out the door, I think Yamaha is running a $69 winch special now.

 

MickMouse,
I've pulled some large logs out of the woods, off the trails as well, pulled stumps out with mine been rack deep in slop and had to climb straight out to dry ground. Mine wheelies, fishtails, and grabs when I want it too. If you want top end speed though, this is not your choice machine. Your going to have to spend a little more money unless you find something used. Mines jetted I have a white bros pipe and a filter, 589's on the rear and dirt devils up front. They are workhorses and probably the best bang for your buck. Thats just my opinion though.

 

Damn at that price I would buy two, I just bought one $5500 (02 Eiger 4x4 auto) after a lot of wheeling and dealing, went out to ride it and met a guy who bought the same thing except 2x4 and paid $5400 these are OTD prices in CA.

This is my first Quad so I can't really give advice on other brands, but I did research for about 6 months and decided to go with the Eiger, more machine for the buck, so far I love it.

 

4700.omg what a deal!!!! id buy 2 myself i paid 5400 otd 4 my bb400 4x4 last year mine is an '01