We're in our 50's and we'd like to know the best make(s) to start with. Thank you

 

Unfortunately, that is a very loaded question and will typically result in responses with "what I have is the best".

So, does best to you mean best hp, best handling or best reliability?

Best hp is going to be Can Am and Polaris. But best hp does not typically equate to best reliability. I'm familiar with a person who recently bought a new Can Am 1000 and has spent close to the same amount of money in maintaining the ATV as was in his initial purchase... and that was a 2019 ATV. Plenty of stories about Polaris high hp ATVs having serious heat issues, premature bearing/bushing/belt failures as well. Take a look at Polaris' history on recalls in the last 5 years.

Best handling is going to be very subjective. Yamaha, Polaris, Can Am usually come out on top, but again, depends on what your preferences are and if you are looking for rider control or a dumbed down build that is meant for the general populous and offers less rider control.

Best reliability is typically known as Honda but that could be challenged because of the problems Honda has had especially with their Electronic shift which many consider garbage. Yamaha can easily be ranked as top reliability with Honda.

 

Welcome to the forums.

So what are you looking to do with the atv? Trails, track, work? New or used?

Major brands have loyal followings, and all of them are good. Also, all of them have problems too. Sometimes it's related to the maker, sometimes the rider.

Good maintenance is the key to keeping any of them going.

 

Welcome to the forum ddogminus. I'm in my 50s as well, but have been doing this for a long time. Tell us what you want to do with your ATV, and what you expect from it, and we can recommend what we think it going to work out best a little easier that way. I've owned all of the brands at this point, some are better at one thing, and others are better at something else.