Why would they drop the 350?? The August ATV Action (pg 54) says "Honda tells us the Rancher 350 is THE top-selling ATV, period". I read this as saying it sells more than ANY other ATV, not just any other Honda (???). 70,000 units in 2002! What company would be foolish enough to drop their best selling product??? And don't tell me they are going to replace it with the 400AT, when the 400 costs $600 more. They also said there will be a 2X4 AT.

I looked at the AT this morning. I was not impressed by the USELESS SOFT PLASTIC skid plate. If you buy one of these, you will need an aftermarket skid plate before you can even leave your garage!! Actually, the styling wasn't as foo foo in person, as it is in the photos.

 

I want the Rancher 400 in the ES transmission but with the independent rear suspension of the Rincon (and it's soft tush pad).

 

I have owned three hondas a 300 4x4, 400 and 450s all with foot shifts and i would have to say they are simple and built good. (I know this is kinda on the subject). but i have notices that a lot of the new models are starting to come out in automatic like the Rincon, Rubacon SP, but i hope that honda does not start to switch over to automatics b/c that is one of the reasons i like honda the good old man. 5-speed

 

It's kinda the new trend. It also attracts customers that can't shift and want an auto. Look how many automatic cars are out there now.

 

My view on the automatic and electric shifter on quads...the electric stuff sucks!!! We ride in major boggs and mudholes in Louisiana and my brother has a Rancher w/the electric shift and every time we ride he has major problems with it,,,and the manual shifter they give you in case of emergencies sucks too....basically, my opinion is (if you are off roading in mud or water) stick to the old manual shifter......my 2 cents worth

 

The december 02 4-wheel atv action says(pg22): Hondas rancher 350 will be holding down the budget four-by fort for honda in 2003, but we now have a glimpse of a much more sophisticated machine that will probably replace it in 2004.

So, im not sure if it will, but i actually hope it doesent replace the rancher. I cant see why all the manufacturers are switching over to autos instead of sticking with 5 speeds.