Hi All,
I'm looking for help choosing a used SxS with 4x4 grip and the torque to climb steep hills with a load of grapes and brake with all four wheels (btw, does any machine give 4 wheel parking brakes for steep hills?)

Reliability is a huge concern. Speed is not. Dump bed would be nice. Large bed is important.

Any of you folks have a recommendation? Anything to steer clear of?

 

We've got a starting point for you on your search and it can be found on the ATVC homepage by clicking here:

Ask the Editors: Need a Work-Ready SxS - ATVConnection.com

 

Depends on how much money you want to spend. A Yamaha Rhino 660 is a pretty economical choice. I've seen them in good shape used often for under $5000. It has front differential lock and a dumping cargo bed. The older Kawasaki Mules and John Deere Gators are good work machines but those are very slow and underpowered. The Rhino isn't necessarily fast but its got more low end torque than these other machines that you need for work. Its got more ground clearance too, good for the times it gets really muddy. Better ride too with the irs. Maybe not that important but might as well have it. The Rhino could actually be used for recreational riding if you want. And they're all about the same price. I'd pick the Rhino myself.

 

If it didn't have to be a side by side, an Arctic Cat TBX might work. OK, I'm pushing it a bit, Rhino is a great choice.

 

There are others to consider too. The Polaris Ranger 500 is a pretty economical choice as well. The Kawasaki Teryx has been around long enough now that some of the earlier year models are reasonably priced as well like this one locally for example 2008 Kawasaki Teryx 750 4x4 . It has more power than the Rhino or Ranger 500 and a nice sized dumping cargo box.