02' manual Rancher bought used for $3200 total. Pics and stuff at the link below. Don't have any problem with the shifter though. Biggest thing is the choke cable, sticks after a long sit (indoors or out). I've got the upgraded cable from Ebay but haven't put it on yet. The bike looked to be road hard and put up wet. I completely went through it after I got it. Cleaned out the brakes, needed to replace a CV boot, and cleaned it up everywhere. Also added the front racks and my MM winch system. It'll get an easy life from now on just putting around our weekend place and the deerlease that's next door.

Compare my Rancher to my King Quad???

 

My grandma has a 4x4 03 rancher. it's a little rough on the trails but not terrible.They have had no problems with it. She bought it for $5499 brand new in 03. oh yeah and my aunt has one too but its a 2wd. So its would be a good machine for your girlfriend.

 

2004 329cc manuel shift 4x4 Rancher, $5100 out the door (Gotta love Hawaii prices! Boooo!) Good bike, reliable, fairly light, underpowered, stiff ride (shocks suck!), seat too short, full time 4x4 means less parts but less fun, shifts kinda hard, good mud protection, two full axle tubes (good) no disc brakes (not sure if good or bad yet, haven't had to replace them so far), floorboard plastic wimpy (mine have already snapped in several places), footpegs raised (good, better control), good sized racks, skid protection not the greatest, bike has nice looks. My2cents

 

honda ranchers are the best starts everytime, very easy to turn, and a joy to ride. you won't regret getting her a rancher