We're ATV rookies and have decided on getting at least one Honda Rancher. We have 2 boys (ages 12 and 14) and can't decide between the Rancher ES or S. We'll be riding on trails and around our cabin in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Any thoughts/recommendations would be appreciated - Thanks! [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-confused.gif[/img]

 

Well if your rookies you might want to consider the ES because all you have to do is press a button and your in gear . If you are going to be doing some mudding or any kind of creeks I would also cansider getting it 4x4 . I have a Rancher S 4x4 . I got manual because it was cheapper and I was more experanced with a foot-shift . I also got it 4x4 to because my brother ( 12 yrs old ) got a Recon 2x4 and where we ride there is a lot of mud and stuff so I knew that I should 4x4 just incase someone got stuck . Other than that its a great atv . Its got a lot of stuff you can add to it to make it better . Hope I helped . [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img] Post again if you need anything else .
OutlawRancher

 

ES is the best way to go. I Have two 350 es Ranchers one 4 x 4 and one 2 x 4 . Both units Shift flawlessly. Its great when you are in Deep water or mud and keep your feet dry and can keep on shifting. The Ranchers on Great Atv,s . Highly recommend [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

I have a 2000 rancher es and love it. Its tough, durable, and very reliable. I would get the es

 

ES. The thumb shifting is great and the ES model comes with full floorboards, which are a safety feature.

 

Rancher ES here - a 2003 purchased last New Years Eve. The floorboards are a very much appreciated asset, especially where I ride in the desert. I'd buy another ES in a heartbeat. It was an excellent choice.