I'll second the Rancher vote, but if you can get a Recon for half-price.........

 

Again, no offense to the Recon, but I've ridden an EX250, and the Recon is essentially a utility version of the same machine. Though it would probably be the cheap and reliable way between point A and point B, I'd be afraid it would get pretty boring for an adult.

In my mind, paying twice as much for something that I really enjoyed riding would be a better value to me, but then everyone's situation and goals are different...

Good luck, Capt. Bob, with whatever you decide.

 

Capt. Bob,

I was thinking more about your situation. From what you've told us you have a Foreman, a farm to ride it on, and a wife who enjoys riding, and you are looking to get a machine for her.

Thinking of the ladies I have known, I'm sure she would appreciate it if you brought a Recon or some other machine home that you picked for her, even if it isn't an equal to your machine.

I bet you would score big points, though, if you told her that you noticed she enjoyed riding the ATV and you were thinking it would be nice if she had her own because you would enjoy riding together, with her.

Then take her down to the dealership and let her pick whatever she wants.

From what you've shared about your situation, it sounds like you have a life a lot of people would envy, and it would be worth it.

Sorry if that got too off topic...

 

The Recon/250EX are a kick to ride! If you are coming off a high performance sport quad, sure they are going to seem extremely tame, but if you are coming off a large heavy utility, they would be a breath of fresh air (especially if she is petite!)....you are losing 100-150 pounds and gaining a lot more maneuverability and a lighter feel!

But, I would think the bottom line has to be whether your second machine needs to be 4wd or not.......

 

if you are going to use her atv to haul feed or tools around then get the recon with the racks,
if its just for her to play on get the 250ex, the new ones have the sport clutch (aids in performance when she is ready)
and the trx250ex looks 10 times better with the new sporty plastics

both are honda (I do understand your loyalty to honda, I have 3 quads and 2 dirtbikes all honda)

 

the recon has good power. My friend had a foreman and i could beat him in a drag. of course the foreman is made for torque not speed.

 

I bought the 07 420 Rancher and I love it...unfortunately so does my girlfriend!! For the money it's a great all around bike for her on the dunes and trails....