I have really been studying the Rancher for a possible replacement if my 300 ever goes. I am seeing on the specs. that the Rancher has 9.7" of ground clearance and the Foreman 450 has only 7.7" . That's quite a bit more if that is correct. To me ground clearance is one of the most important things. (Along with tires.)
It just seems to me the Foreman is more of a workhorse ATV and the Rancher more of a trail rider. That's not to say either could not be the other. I just feel they are both designed better for different purposes.
But what do I know? Jay

'90 300 TRX FW

 

I don't think that there is anything at all wrong with modifying ATV's or sleds so long as we remember the basic law of physics "for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction"
Bigfoot kits are a prime example, you aquire awesome traction from large aggressive tires but in turn you place more than usual stress on your drive train components and things start wearing out prematurely. SO if you start changing the design of your ATV your more than likely going to suffer irregular problems, if the mods are worth the risk then go for it but, don't blame the Manufacturer when something odd breaks With most products they are always engineered on the safe side as to ensure durability and
reliability. Class leading performance alot of times is not the first priority, Honda is a good example of this.

 

My friend has a 2000 rancher ES and lucky for me he keeps it in my garage because he has no place to store it, and I find myself riding it more than my Kodiak I love that thing. Get a Rancher. Utility machines are great but if your like me you get the urge to hang it out once and a while and the rancher is more of a sport ride.