I am 50 and getting ready to buy my first ATV. I have looked at the Honda Rancher AT (400cc class), Rubicon Foreman (500cc class), and Rincon (650cc class). I have two issues: air cooled versus liquid cooled and all time 4WD vs 2WD/4WD. For me, my purchase is an investment. I want to keep the machine for a long time. I plan to use it primarily for hunting and leisurely riding on trails. I have no terest in pushing the machine to its limits (unless I was younger). I don't want to be buying less powerfulr models and then progress to more powerful ones. I want to find the right fit within 400cc-650cc. If I ride all day, is having an air cooled vs liquid cooled engine a moot point these days? I realize that sliding in corners with all 4WD, like with the Rubicon Foreman, is difficult as well as not recommended. Like I said, I have no interest in pushing it to the limit. My concern is fatique (especially as I grow older with the machine). I know that 2WD is fine for general trail riding on smooth stretches of terrain and is less wear and tear, overall. But, does it really make that much difference in a day of riding weather you are using a combination of 2WD/4WD or all 4WD? Also, I live in Iowa (to give you an idea of the terrain).

Appreciate your help.

 

Have you ever riden a Quad before? Was it when you were younger? What did you ride? Basically, are you an experienced rider? You are in the right direction by chosing a Honda!
Are you going to be riding alone or 2-up?

Dr_Claw
Younger but, experineced (26yrs old, 16yrs experience)

 

DrClaw,

I have never ridden and ATV before. I plan to ride solo. There might be times where I have to carry a passenger (help someone out), but I wouldn't until I have more experience. I know some people say start out with a lighter and less powerful machine. But, with a fully automatic transmission, such as in the Rincon, I would think that would allow me to get used to the machine and focus on control and other factors aside from shifting.

 

you want two get a liquid cooled 2wd/4wd

 

Rincon 650 2 to 4 wheel drive $7599.
Rubicon 500 Fulltime 4x4 $6999.
Foreman 450 2 to 4 wheel drive $6199.S $6399.ES
Foreman 400 Fulltime 4x4 $5899.
Rancher 400 2 to 4 wheel drive $5999.
Rancher 350 Fulltime 4x4 $5199.S $5399.ES

Remember that a 424 by Warn can be installed on the fulltime 4x4's to make them selectable. I would rather have something that is selectable.

How much do you want to spend? The 2004 350 Ranchers are going to have a different body style and higher prices. The Rincon and Rubicon are going to come with a GPS option along with the Rancher 400. Your price range will give you a good idea which quads to choose from. Maybe the Rancher 400, Foreman 450 and Rubicon would fit your needs between the 400-650 range.

Have you considered the Rancher 400 or have you had a chance to actually look at one. Just wondering because it's not out yet.

Air cooling should not be a problem for you. If someones pushes a quad to it's limits (in a hot desert) then maybe. Some of the machines have an oil reservoir to help with cooling.

You really need to choose one because you know your needs. I would lean towards the 450 with selectable.

 

You don't need a work quad, so huge horsepower probably isn't necessary. So, I would stay on the smaller end of the scale. Honda has been pretty good at keeping their machines on lighter/smaller side, compared to the other manufacturers. (As primarily a sport rider, I find the trend toward huge utilities pretty laughable!! We call them tractors.) You didn't give your height and weight, but unless you are real big, the Rancher 400 would be my pick.

I think all the models you mentioned will have 2WD/4WD next year, so that issue is academic. If you don't like 2WD, just don't ever use it.

 

I would probably get the new rancher it will go the same speed as the 450 foremans. My 350 will go through the exact same mud pits and stuff as my friends foreman 450's so I would assume the new rancher has quite a bit more power than my rancher. Also I think no matter who you are after a while of riding and more experience you'll wish you had the ability to put it into two wheel drive. I mean if I had to choose I'd get the full time four wheel drive but it's best to have both. The rancher 400 is also a pretty darn good deal. If you would go with a differnt manufacturer the suzuki vinson 500 is an awesome quad and has the power of the rincon and costs a lot less. Good luck and God bless.

 

Mudslinger400z,

In the early stages of my research, I had my eye on the Rancher AT which is fully automatic (specs make no mention of ESP, etc). I see on the Honda Web site that it is now available and priced at $5999. I like that fact that it will have the 2WD/4WD. When I went to the dealer, I started looking more at the Rubicon Foremand and Rincon. I appreciate your comments and will take your opinion into account.

BTW... Saw an article in the newspaper this morning. An ATV rider in Iowa was riding along on a three-wheeler and was knocked of his vehicle by a deer. No other details were given other than he was slightly injured and another rider got his vehicle stopped.

 

Reconranger,

Thanks. I am 6'1", 177 pounds. I have a herniated disk in my back (in a non-weight bearing area), but I run a total of about 10 miles per week and do a Navy SEAL calisthenics routine to stay in shape for military and hunting. I have done some firearms training in Burro Canyon Shooting Park. I think that is not too far from where you live.

I think I am good to go on any of the three models I am looking at regarding my size. The Rubicon Foreman is constant 4WD, but I liked the fact that it had the automatic transmission. Thanks for your comments.

 

Weelieboy,

Thanks for your input. Can you expand a bit on what you recommended? Thanks.