Thanks for the input guys I just purchased a 1999 Foreman 450 ES w/ 13 miles on it for $700 less than I could have purchased a new Rancher for, so far (after riding 30 min) I am totally in amazement at this machine. Whoever mentioned tighter handling, you are right it would be nice but I think I can make do with the Foreman 11.5 turn radius
Happy Trails

 

i jsut purchased a new honda and i went with the 450 for the reasons that it is larger more power better ride and not as much plastic up front much better deal for the foreman

 

bmt5, you can improve the Foreman's turning and handling significantly by adjusting the toe out to 1/4". This will also make it much more responsive so if you do this, take it easy for awhile until you get used to it.

You may also want to consider increasing the tire pressure to 6 lbs. I read that tip on the H/L site and have used it for over 1000 miles with no regrets.

Temp

 

I think Honda should make the foremans like the Rancher. They would be fantastic.
I do beleve they are thinking of at least making next model year Formans with the new differantal.
The Ranchers front end is 10x better.
If any one has ever ridin both they know what I
am talking about.
No matter,if you buy Honda you buy the best..

 

10x better may be a bit of an exaggeration. There is no doubt that the Rancher's front end is better but not by a large margin.

That is only my opinion but I own both and have had all kinds of opportunity to compare them.

Temp

 

Ya maybe I went a little overboard.

 

What the heck is a toe out?? I would like to see if I get a better turn radius by adjusting this, by the way is this dangerous? I think I might pump up the tires a little and see if that helps turning.
Later
BNT5

 

I wouldn't change a thing. The machine was engineered with that specific toe out measurement for a reason.

Example: Would you change what your valve clearance adjustment specs just because you'd thought it should have been engineered that way? I didn't think so. Keep'em stock.

 

hiofcer, certainly you are entitled to your opinion. However I am not the first, nor will I be the last person to make this adjustment. I have yet to hear from anyone who has tried it and had any problems.

It is interesting that the toe out on the Rancher can be less than the Foreman, don't you think? Do you suppose that there is something radically different about the Rancher? As well, Honda suggests 3.5 lbs of air for the tires but Highlifter suggests 6 lbs on their tips page.

All this to suggest that Honda's specs are the "safe" ones, not necessarily the best ones.

BTW, the ground clearance is the same on the two bikes. At least on the two that I own.

Temp

 

I adjusted my tie rods and my buddys. Anyways Temp I was wondering which quad you would buy if money wasn't a problem 450 or 350? Thanks for the reply I would take the 450 and slap some new 27inch tires. My buddy is trying to decide between the two. Thanks again.

THE BIG YELLER BEAST!