I need help. I am buying a new atv. It is either going to be the Vinson or the 450. Both are the same price. I am 6'3 280. The vinson is a little bigger and more powerful than the kodiak. The yellow will hide the scratches better also. On the other hand the Kodiak has that locking diff. I really wan't the bike for the trails and to occasionallu get muddy. Everyone is telling me different things. Any yes I know the Honda and Polaris are good. They are both sold locally at the same dealer and I have been turned off of him because of business practices. I am getting a good deal on the other bikes I just have to pick which one. And fast. I want to get out there.

 

Hey Warrior50,

I can't give an opinion about the Suzuki, but I do own a 2001 Kodiak and it's a great machine. If I could buy a new quad tomorrow it would be the new 450 kodiak, no questions asked. without a doubt you want the option of the locking front differential. You won't need it very often, but when you do, it's there. I'm about 6'-2" and go about 275 and the kodiak is comfortable for me. If you do any riding off the beaten path you'll like the size and steering of the Kodiak. I ride with some friends that have Honda 400's and a 350 Artic Cat and the Kodiak has a lot tighter turning radius over these machines. There's times on tight trails that they have to do the old pull up, back up, pull up routine to make a tight turn and I can make the same turn without having to back up. I'm not cuttin down Honda or Artic Cat, I think there good machines (used to be a Honda or nothing guy) I just liked the size and handling of the Kodiak.

 

Yes the KOD is nimble, handle great, but i find mine a little narrow.

 

As far as I am concerned the 450 is not too narrow. I find that it handles great and I like the smaller size for maneverability. I have used the diff lock a number of times and for me it is a must! I have been in mud, snow, ice and water over my boots, on my 450 Kodiak and I would not trade it! You will not be sorry if you buy it.
Good Luck and let us know what you get.

 

Hello.

I've never driven the 450 but own an 02 Kodiak. I have however driven the Vinson a number of times and will say that it drives very will with no shortage of power. Rincon was right when he said that the Kodiak is more nimble. Manovering through tight trail the Kodiak is better. The vinson has a great seating position, nice and staight. The diff lock would be a definite plus.

Lets face it you're faced with a tough choice. Both atv's are awesome to drive and easy to operate. All that I can suggest would be to drive both and see which feels best to you.

Good Luck
Marc

 

Bought a Kodiak 450 today, I pick it up on Saturaday