Generally speaking, if you go up more than one tire size you probably should re-clutch an automatic. I noticed a little slower launch with going from 25" tires to 26" Mudlite XTRs. That was with a 500 though. Probably not as noticeable as the bigger machines. I did get a set of HD springs from Polaris for the front end of my quad and it picked it up a little bit. I wouldn't go to crazy with lifts personally. The higher angle on the CV joints will lead to premature wear.

 

You listed your price range and that is a good thing to stick with. Believe me I have more ideas than cash. E-bay / craigs list / greensheet are all good ways to locate good used models.
Here is a good example I found on e-bay today. Just rip off those stupid stickers and run zuke yellow comes with a warn winch and rear seat/pack as well as a windshield starting at 4k with only 99 miles.
(currently in ohio) -- no I dont know the owner and I dont live in ohio.
It is obvious the owner rolled it and got scared if you look at the pix.
Happy hunting and be patient you will find what you want with the economy the way it is....
Just be careful and use common sense if you go used.
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2009 Suzuki King Quad 750 4x4 Rockstar ATV




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ya, i've been cruizing the classifieds for about a 2 months, deffinetly alot more good deals in my area now that winter is over! as for tire size, i was thinking of 26" because im not really into lifting whatever ride i end up getting. just wondering if the extra tire combined with offset wheels will start puking out ball joints and such.

 

there is a 06 BF 650 with 65 hours all stock with warn winch for 4200 and a BF 750 with 240 hours, plow, winch, back seat/storage, offroad trailer and heated grips for 5900 in my area. having trouble finding grizzlies though, which probably says alot of good things about them! why get rid of a good thing?

also been checking this site out:

http://burnaby.repo.com/browse/ATVs

 

larger wheels take more energy to turn and turn slower.
A clutch kit can help with any lag and add some zip if you go big. In fact the kits are sold by tire size.
I am not sure but much like a jeep or large pick up I would figure ball joints would wear quicker (due to weight and stress) also the axle shaft (weight again) but it isnt like a jeep with a lift kit
Besides your dealer can help you with wheel tire combos and provide advise.

 

Hey I-

A lot of you want is on here. Spend some time and use the search features in the threads. Tires and clutch mods are a major source of conversation. Wheel and tire changes, even what you might consider minor size upgrades can have costly (and sometimes dangerous) side effects without other mods, so be careful.

 

"careful"...did you just makethat word up? i've never heard it before