Deej, nice posts I wish everyone would respond that way. Yes the rancher is set up with the independent front and the rear remains a solid axle - just like the expedition. The new front diff is much easier to turn then a conventional one, it actually turns easier than my sp500 does in 2wd. The difference is that the tire with the most traction gets the power, unlike the usual limited slip which the reverse is true. Ride quality is a little better on the polaris, it's a little softer but on the trails the rancher is a little more nible and sporty. Size isn't an issue as I'm 6-3" and don't feel cramped on the rancher . . . actually the rancher is almost identical size as the Foreman.

 

Rancheres,

Actually you bring up another good point. I would have to guess that the Honda line has increased in physical size since the '87 4-Trax was introduced. I should really stick my butt on a newer unit and try it on for size.

Hav'in a blast with these toys. Spring was here in March so we have been slugging through the mud for a month now and hav'in a ball. The snow began again last Saturday so it looks like we will get a whole new round of mud again soon!!

Brought the machines home last weekend for a bath and servicing. I think both of them are 100 pounds lighter with all that mud and swamp grass washed off. Hope to have them ready for this weekend.

DJ

 

Well looking at some of the posts and learning my Honda dealer was backed up until May I have come to a fairly comfortable decision and gone with the Xpedition 425. I think with the push button 2/4 drive and the "true" four-wheel drive should come a better and perhaps more fun machine. I should be picking up my new Xpedition in the morning. Thanx for all the posts, especially to Deej who wrote that nice book it really helped.
I'll let you know how it rides on Friday.
Like everyone says it only matters that you RIDE!!

 

i just bought a rancher after looking into a polaris Xpedition 425. I had to go with the honda. you really cant go wrong! a friend of mine has a 96 300 4x4 and he cant stop it. i have had mine in deep mud and have been very impressed. i originally wanted a switchable 2wd to 4wd, but i decided against it because you really dont notice the difference in turning and handling. now when it comes to cutting cookies and the likes of that the switchable definately has an advantage. to say the least i am VERY happy with my rancher, and you all are right it doesnt really matter what you ride as long as you ride and have fun. good luck with your polaris.

 

What dealership is selling the ES for 4,990? My dad needs a new quad. As you can see we live in the same area.

 

Thanx for all the posts. I have been posting on these message boards for about 2 months constantly changing my mind. I hope after all the posts my decision was a good one. I own, as of Thursday, a 2000 Xpedition 425 that I got for $5199. I felt comfortable with the price that I got for a 400 class ATV. I put 32 miles on it between Thursday and on Friday even though the weather was a bit chilly. It seems like it has good power and the handling was a bit easier than I expected. My brother is coming over next weekend with his 2000 Grizzly, with winch, to test my 4x4 capabilities. After the 10 hour breakin period that Polaris recomends I plan on puttin the hammer down to really test my choice.


2000 Xpedition 425--FUN IN THE MUD

 

I think you should buy the Polaris. The reason is because you are not thinking clearly which is evident on your question. Your not worthy to ride the Rancher