how does it handle steer and what is the comfort level.

 

The 4X4 steering will fight you a little (the front end "hunts") in some conditions, but you quickly get used to it and it doesn't bother you to much. Comfort is reasonable for a utility.

I rode in the high desert today. This is fast riding through sandy, whooped out terrain. I took the 4X4 along in case there was some technical terrain to ride. There wasn't any! So, I rode the Rancher around on the trails a little. Boy, the difference between the sport bikes and the utility is night and day!! The 400EX/Z400 (with Works suspension) will bash through huge whoops at 60 mph all day. The Rancher on the other hand, will try to buck you off in anything but the small stuff. Get the picture?? This ain't no sport bike!!