Anyone care to comment on the advantages disadvantages of fulltime 4wd vs. 2wd/4wd selectable. Below is my take. I would like to here other peoples opinions.

Fulltime 4wd advantages.

1.) Less mechanical complexity.

2.) Engine braking always applies to front wheels.

3.) Safety. Less likey not to be able to make a steep hill by being in the wrong mode. More uniform braking to all wheels.

4.) Cost. Should be less expensive.

5.) Less things to worry about for the inexperinced rider.


2wd/4wd selectable.

1.) Easier steering in 2wd.

2.) Better MPG in 2wd.

3.) Sporter feel in 2wd.

 

2wd/4wd selectable.

1.) Easier steering in 2wd.

2.) Better MPG in 2wd.

3.) Sporter feel in 2wd.

And I would add:

4.) Fun factor.

I run over 90% of the time in 2wd. Even though my bike steers very easily in 4wd it's just more fun in 2wd. There is just nothin' like breaking that back end loose on a turn! That, plus I enjoy the challenge of riding through tougher trails in 2wd just to see if I (and the bike) can do it. The 4wd is always there to bail me out if I need it. I've had two bikes with selectable 2wd/4wd (King Quad and Eiger) and have never had a problem out of either system. One possible drawback could be the electric switchable systems; My brother got stuck on his Prairie 650 once by driving through a muckier-than-expected mudhole in 2wd. In that system, you need the front wheels to roll about 3' or so to engage 4wd. (I think the Griz has a similar system) He wound up having to winch out. The mechanical linkage systems don't have this problem.

Jaybee

 

I'm not sure about the Grizz, but on mine, as soon as you push the button for 4X4, the front pulls right away. It doesn't have to roll at all to engage. Works great for me. I ride similar to Jaybeecon55 with about 80-90% of my riding in 2 wheel drive...it is a sportier feeling than in 4X4. I'd stay with the selectable switch, unless the riding conditions were switched to 80-90% riding in mud, muck, snow, etc. Just my take on it.

 

I think you covered all the pros and cons, the fun factor is the one I think makes most decisions.

I have ridden atv's with switchable 4wd, I have a Rubicon. I have heard that the 2003 Ranchers coming out in June will be switchable, I am going to buy a 2002 for my daughters because of the pros you mentioned.

Tough decision. Being in 4wd all the time was one reason I did not want a Rubicon. Another reason was I thought it looked to boxy, not sporty like a Sportsman (first choice). The transmission is what sold me on the Rubicon. I also come back at the end of the day with a lot less mud on me than my friends do. For me I definatly made the right choice. Not being able to put my Rubicon in 2wd is the very last thing I ever think of.

Again, I think the fun factor is probably the big decision maker.

Specta
01 Red Rubicon[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

Specta, you can now buy kit to make your Rubi 2 or 4 wheel drive.