I know this thread is old too, but here goes. First and foremost, don't go much bigger than what you feel comfortable on. there are many GOOD machines that will do what you want that are under 500 CC's and can be picked up on the used market fairly reasonably. I would stick to major brands though, only because parts are readily available for them. I'd recommend one of the Honda's or Yamaha's in the 450 range. I have had a 500 Rubicon forever, and my wife has a 450 Grizzly. Newer models have EPS (Power steering) and to be honest, my two newest machines Both can-am's, and both are 850 CC's have it and I can't bring myself to take my Honda out any more unless I am pulling something. (The transmission is an automotive type that is bullet proof and has no belts to burn up) As I age, (62) this becomes way more important to me. Yamaha just re-introduced a 450 Kodiak, which is nearly identical to my wife's Grizzly 450. the new machine has EPS, but her older machine does not. She is cheap though and will not get the upgraded machine.