Hey everyone, I posted this in the "how to buy" section, and got some good feedback, but figured I'd post this here as well to get the most info as possible before making a bad move...

In looking at getting back into ATVs, mostly to use to plow snow at my 6 acre farmstead in snowy NoDaK. However, I do need something that can pull trailers, ride trails, handle mud and abuse, haul deer, etc. while still starting in -40 weather. I have a modest budget, around $2500 (the cheaper, the better). I'd like to find something really soon (like today, LOL), as the market tends to shift closer to hunting season and winter around here. I have my eyes on a few options right now, none of which have plows, etc. So I'll still need to get urge selected option set up.

- 2001 Rubicon 500 w/7k miles for $1900
- 2002 Sportsman 700 with 1300 miles for $2500
- 1997 Explorer 500 $1750
- 1995 Foreman 400 w/winch for $1850

My uncle has a similar Rubicon, so I know the machine is reliable, but those miles scare me, and it sounds like it may need rubber, but is recently serviced and the price allows me wiggle room.What is the lifespan expected on these machines?

I have a buddy with a 2003 Sportsman 700 and he says that it's great, but it doesn't like to run slow. I've also heard the twins start hard and have axle issues. This quad is in Roseau, where they make Polaris, so likely owned by an employee, or friend, etc...

I'm not sure about the other two. We had a Foreman years ago and it was a good little mahine, but understandably less powerful and outdated. I also had older Polaris quads and while they were quick, they lacked reliability...

All brand loyalty aside, what are your thoughts on my options? Suggestions? Things to look out for? Unfortunately these are all basically in areas 200 miles from me, in opposite directions so checking them all out wouldn't be doable...Thanks in advance!

 

Did this on my phone, dang Autocorrect, urge = the

 

I would get the Sportsman 700.
+ It's the newest.
+ It has LOW miles.
+ It has a lot more power than the others.
There may be a down side but I don't see it.

 

Thanks. It looks like the Sportsman 700 must have sold. How many miles would a Rubicon be expected to go?

 

Well, the seller of the Rubicon hasn't returned my voicemail. But I did find a 2002 Grizzly 660 w/5k on the odo for $2500, is this a good machine? Good deal? I have zero experience with Yamaha quads. All my buddy who into these can say is "it's more fun due to the lower weight, but my 700 Sportsman took one..."

 

The Grizzly 660 is a good machine but I'm not sure how good of a deal that is. You can look it up at nada.com and kbb.com.

 

Thank you. I am supposed to look at a 2001 Grizzly 600 with 3200 miles, newer tires, winch, etc. for $2k tonight. The guy with the 2001 Rubicon just left me a message. I guess it's between the two options now. The Grizzly is local, the Rubicon would require a 350 mile round trip...

 

The grizzly 600 isn't as good as a 660 and not just because of the extra 60 ccs.

 

Okay, other than the smaller motor, solid rear axle, and the lack of 4x4 lock, any other reasons?