Hey guys, Christmas is on the way and my little one (8 year-old) has her heart set on a mini. I have been on the mini-forum and researched quite a bit. I have narrowed to these three or two (80's are same). The 80 has a rock solid reputation for reliability, but then again not many complaints about the predator either. It seems the biggest brag for the predator is the suspension, floor boards and looks. Any of you guys have these machines? Any input appreciated. I thought it might be nice to get her the kfx to match dad's V. We went to a couple local dealers and let her sit on both 80's........they fit like a glove. It just seems like the styling of the polaris is much more advanced. The Taiwan stuff bugs me though. Any experiences out there?

 

I was in your shoes about a month ago, beat myself up pretty bad trying to figure out which would be best for my oldest daughter ( age 10). My biggest concern was lighting, we need to have a headlamp/tail light as we ride on the ice alot in winter. I was real close to getting the Yamaha Breeze, but ended up with the '04 Suzuki quadsport 160. My buddy runs a local shop and I got it for $50 over cost plus tax.

Personally, I think you will be happy with any of the bikes you listed. The Pred. 90 was a close second, along with the breeze.

Scott W.

 

I somehow had completely overlooked the 160. That does look interesting with the added benefits of lights and reverse. It has me looking. If only it were fully auto I think I would be sold.

 

The 160man- there's one up for auction on ebay, I've been eye- balling it myself. those little 4-strokes last forever... Yeah-- I'm biased, jaded whatever ya want to call it, but 4 strole it is....[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif[/img]

 

The quality of the Tiawanese quads is not what it was a few years ago. I purchased a Kasea 90 over six months ago, and have yet to have a problem with it. That is with a big kid (125 lbs) riding it hard.

I too, looked at the KFX, cause "we ride Kawies". I was not impressed. It was $500 more than the Kasea, but I couldn't see it by looking at it. I won't pay for a name. Show me where that extra money goes, better engine, suspension, something, anything?

People modify and race these Tiawanese quads (Kasea, Eton, LRX), tons of performance parts are available. The engines are based on the Yamaha Jog (scooter).

I suggest that you keep researching all minis and visit dealerships to see them in person. Good luck with your decision. Whatever you decide, you'll be the best dad ever on Christmas morning! [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

Thanks for the replies guys. I think I will take her to look at the predator tomorrow. Next Saturday I'm going to my dealer in Tenn. for a warranty repair. He says he has the 160 suzuki in stock as well as both 80's. I should be able to decide by then[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

I have the Pred 90, but my son is only 6 and 45 lbs. He rides it hard and we've had no problems. However, if your daughter's big enough I'd go with the 160. Have her stand on the pegs and make sure there's some space between her and the seat. Preferably, at least 2 inches. Good luck!

 

I had a yfm 80 for 10 years and probably put 100,000 km on it no problems. I would look at a quad with a light on it though. The 85 Yfm80 frame was better than today's 80 the rack on mine was the thickness of the frame today now it comes with out a light.... it's way down hill today from what was the old YFM80.

 

None of the new kids quads come with lights. However, the Kasea is prewired for headlight, taillight and brake. Plus it comes with a stator that won't burn out if you do add lights!

Also, it is the only kids quad that has a footbrake. Good for teaching new riders proper riding skills.

 

LT80/KFX80 have foot brakes for the rear, and they work great. But if your kids are approaching 100lbs they will outgrow it in a hurry.