Hello all,

I am looking at getting a new (04) Honda Rancher ES, However, I am not sure whether I should get the 4x4 or 4x2, I will be using it mostly on light trails and some mud. Maybe some snow, although not much as there aren't many trails open in Northern New England in the winter. I would like to plow my driveway on occasion.

So what do you all think, is the extra $$$ worth it or not?

Thanks

 

HI. If you can come up with the $$ go for the 4x4. I have a 2x4 and a 4x4. My 2003 trail boss 330 2x4 is a good little wheeler.....but regret not getting a 4x4 wheeler instead. you can plow with 2x4....but not near as well as with 4x4. Most of the time out on the trail 2x4 will do........BUT when it becomes really rough going you will be regretting not going with 4x4. With 4x4 you can make your own winter trails and ride year round. don't get me wrong the 2x4 can be a good wheeler......but if I had the choice it would be 4x4 .

 

My first advice would be to seiously consider if you really want the ES! There are two ES failure posts running on the board right now, and a whole bunch more from the past. Get the foot shifter model! Simpler is always more reliable. In the magazine shootouts, there have been 5 ES failures on test bikes so far (that I know of). Honda has a reputation for reliability, but all they have is egg on their face on this one.

I have both the 2X4 and 4X4 Ranchers. The 2wd is an incredibly capable machine. I take it rock crawling along with my friends who have big bore 4X4's with lockers, etc., and I can do everything they can! But, I live in the arid southwest, where mud is nonexistent and snow is only found at high altitude. My particular requirement is high ground clearance, not maximum traction.

However, any time you are dealing with mud or snow (especially plowing), you are going to want the extra traction of the 4wd. Spend the extra grand!