i think no matter what the decision is... she will probably be happy with either machine. recon, or EX, they are both verry well made machines. i mean, honda really hasnt changed that motor in years. it works well... why change it right?

i say if she wants to stay relitively "mud free", then have her buy some rain pants.

i use a pair if i want to go somewhere on my quad, but want to stay clean. i bought some from walmart. verry light weight, and works great!