I am considering a used Foreman 450. Are there any good or bad years? Anything specific to look for?
Feedback from owners welcome. Thanks.

 

I have on '03 Foreman ES, bought it Nov '02. Lots of time on it and have had no problems. Rides like a dump truck and will climb a tree.

Good Luck

 

Honda improved the 450 in 2002. They changed the 450 from a fulltime 4 wheel drive to a switchable 2 to 4x4. Honda also changed the shocks a little the same year. The main problem that I've heard about with them is that eventually it might need the bearings replaced. The stock bearings aren't sealed but sealed aftermarket bearings can be bought.

I guess it depends on how you'll be using it. My Foreman has done everything I've expected from it so far.

 

I would recommend checking all the bearings, bushings, ball links and pretty much anything else that moves for excessive wear. If you do happen to see any problems be sure to point them out to the seller and be sure to make a big deal out of the smallest problem. This tecnique will break down the sellers confidence in his machine. Take advantage of this and offer him a lower price.

 

Thanks for the feedback. Not sure if I can afford a 2002 or not, but I do want the 2/4 option.

 

make sure you check how many miles and hours are on the engine

 

Really liked my '98 450S. Watch for front wheel bearing problems. Mine had a loud rattle in the exhaust, my shop said this was common. I've seen riders struggle with ES failures, so I prefer to shift with my foot. Warn company makes a product called the 424, which is an unlockable front drive shaft, available for the 450 and several others. That means you can make any Foreman shiftable from 2 to 4 wheel drive. I think this part is a must-have. Mine would pull a house, didn't think twice about hauling a 400 lb elk. Good luck.

 

If you are buying a used Foreman 450, prepare to replace all the brakes wheel bearings and seals. They are guaranteed to be in poor condition unless the previous owner had them all apart recently and replaced. Other than that they are all pretty solid bikes. If the brakes and bearings are NFG, go to Hilifter.com and order up the sealed wheel bearings and Disc brake conversion kit. You will never have another brake problem after that and it is the only weak point in any Honda design.