Hello Everyone,

I am looking at purchasing a new atv in a couple of days.

I had looked at a manual shift rancher 350. The only thing I did not like about it was that the on the fly 2 wheel to 4 wheel capabilities was only available on the Rancher 400 AT. ( which to me sounds like a complicated system that is just push and go.... not quite as fun as shifting and driving!)

At any rate the salesman suggested going UP to the foreman 450S, It has the 2 to 4 wheel drive capabilities, and is between the rancher 350 and 400 in cost! Looking at the specs the 450 foreman and 350 rancher were close (within an inch) size wise the only major difference is the weight (60 Lbs heavier on the foreman) The other major difference is the drivetrain. The foreman has Traxlok and a torque sensitive front diff. where the rancher has a limited slip front diff.

What are the advantages, dis advanteges between the 2?

I guess I'm leaning towards the foreman, Whats everyone elses thoughts.

Thanks

 

buying the rancher with the 4x4 fulltime, then get the warn 4x4 shifter, u will then have on the fly 4x4, its also easier to turn then the forman, and more of a fun ride, guy had a rancher, bought a forman, wish he kept the rancher

 

differentials

I think the foot shift (S model) Rancher 350 does not have a speedo. I think the handlebar height is slightly higher on the Rancher 350. (I like things lower for where I ride.) There are little things that are going to be different. Really either machine would be good. It comes down to which one you like and can afford. I wouldn't buy a 400 Rancher for more money when you can get a 450 for less.

I think you should buy the 450 but that's probably because I have one.[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

The Rancher front diff is the same "torque-sensing" one as the rest of the lineup. In fact, Honda originally introduced it on the Rancher, then later changed the 450 over to it also (old 300, Foreman 400 and 450 had an "open" differential). Why Hondas web site calls the Ranchers "limited-slip", I don't know (an oversight I think!). I love the Rancher 350, and adding the Trax-Loc selectable 2wd/4wd, would make it perfect.

The 450 is a bit "old school", and I would bet that it gets discontinued in the near future. Honda has no listing for it for 05, but we will know for sure this week on the 8th, when they announce the new models. It has the old wet sump engine, and they now have a 350, 400, and 500, so I am not sure just where it fits in the lineup these days? Get one now, while you still can, if that is the way you are leaning.

 

Hi any of the wheelers you are thinking of are strong choices. You are looking at thee " can't go wrong quads " . I love my foreman. I know it is a very reliable wheeler that is time proven. That said , I would also be very comfortable with any of the wheelers you mention for the same reason. You should try to test them out and see what suits you the best. personably I would go with the foreman or the 400 AT.

Let us know how you make out.

PINKMOON

 

The torque sensing differential has been in use in Honda ATV's for much longer than the Rancher. It is a limited slip unit that can be found in many 4x4 atv's including the old forman 400, all 450's and even the old 300.

I just took mine out and replaced it with a highlifter spool locker. They just wear out over time and eventually "become" an open defferential. Thank god for the aftermarket that will allow you to have honda reliability and still all the features of other bikes on the market.

 

What do you plan to use it for? Do you plan to use it with attachments? I.E. plow, grader, etc. Or is it strictly for trail riding? One small but nice feature on the foreman is the handlebar light. Very handy for night riding and hunting. The larger motor also provides more pulling power. The rancher is lighter and a little more agile. The foreman has two rear shocks, the rancher has one. Rancher has a more modern style, the Foreman a little more dated styling. Whatever you choose, I'm sure you'll be happy with it. Good luck!

 

Thanks!

I picked up my machine today.... I selected the foreman 450s. I priced out the rancher 350 4x4 with an added warn 4x2 package that would allow the machine to shift from 2 wheel drive to 4 wheel drive. The prices were pretty close so I went up in machine size, and downwards in styling. (IMO) I will be mainly using it for trail riding and fishing trips. I will also use it a little on the farm as well.

Thanks for the input everyone!

 

Congratulations on your new Foreman. I am sure it will serve you well.

Good luck

PINKMOON

 

I had a 2002 f450 ForemanS. Never had a single problem with it. At 7500km I put Kenda Bear Claws on it, I even went an inch higher and wider. The engine had no problem turning them. I finally traded it this spring on an 04 Rincon. It had 8200km on it. Worked great. Miss that machine like mad........