I sold my wifes 1986 Honda 200SX just because of parts being hard to get. I want to replace it with something similar but newer. I know that the 250 Recon kind of replaced the 200SX but I think it's a little too big for her and our small yard. So, here's her requirements. Auto clutch or full auto trans, under 350 lbs, electric start, and reverse.

 

I think your 'under 350 lbs' requirement is going to be tough to meet for utility quads. The 250 class utes from Kawasaki and Honda are both over 400 pounds.

Yamaha has a Grizzly 125 that is listed at 325 pounds. But, total rack capacity is less than 35 pounds! You can't even put a bag of fertilizer on the rack and stay within capacity limits! It doesn't list a towing capacity...

If you are looking at something for utility work, I don't know that I would worry to much about weight. If the yard is small, I would look at turning radius and reverse. If the issues of weight is to do with steering effort (and if money is no object!!) look at sometihng with available power steering.

For yardwork, I think any of the 250 class machines would be great choices. They have similar price ranges and features. I don't think you can go wrong with the name brand manufacturers.

Good luck!

 

Well, maybe the weight can be more. I was just worried about ripping up the turf. Does anyone make a single wheel drive so it doesn't rip the yard up when you turn? Other than that, I'm thinking about a Recon.

 

They sell turf tires for any atv you chose. They really help alot when riding on manicured lawns.

 

The Recon is a good small machine but it does have a solid rear axle. I think if you put turf tires on and don't drop the throttle when your turning you should be fine. the nice thing about the Recon is it's bullet proof and is Auto-clutch. Don't worry about it being to big for her. My brother has one we let his step-daughter ride and she is about 100lbs soaking wet with boots on.

 

I agree with other posters that mention tires. They can make a lot of difference in what happens to the turf. The turf tires are made specifically not to tear up yards.

However, I have a Kawi BF 750 that weighs over 900 pounds with me on it and no rear differential. I rarely have trouble with tearing up the yard. The only time I tear up the yard is when I get stupid and turn too hard going too fast. Otherwise, it doesn't even dent the yard.

 

I was actually pretty impressed with the Grizzly 125.....but maybe go used, just slightly newer.

My 1994 Honda TRX 200 Fourtrax Type II would be a great yard work machine.

Its auto clutch, electric start, reverse and has a VERY tight turning radius. I can turn around inside of a trail with ease in most cases. It also has a "trunk" in the back that could hold ALOT of tools....very handy.



These little machines go for under $1000 in my area - mine cost me $700 and it pretty clean.

 

Those things have a great turning radius.