So I have been recently looking at quads. For what ever reason I was pretty much sold on just getting a 07 Big Bear 400. Then I stopped by a Kawi place near home and the guy let me test ride a BF750i! Holy crap this thing has power. Front wheels off the ground in an instant. INstantly wanted to take it home. I sat and talked with the sales manager for a bit. I asked the difference between the 650 and 750. He said not much but the 650 does steer and handle better(great cause my wife will be riding this alot) but he still prefered the 750. I told him I would call him next week and let him know. After getting home I started searching the net. From everything I have seen the 650i looks like the best bet. Only thing the 750 has is a bit more power but most said you wont really notice. I called my "normal" dealer that I go to and he agreed. Now my normal dealer is out of the 06 650i's but has a 05 750i sitting there that I can get for 500 dollars less than the 06 650 at the other shop. NOw after doing alot of searches on the 05 750 it seams like they had alot of problems with tie rod ends, back firing, sucking water and also read a few problems with trashing the belts. My questions are should I pay the extra(maybe talk him down a couple more hundred) and get the 650i? Also is it really as powerfull as the 750? Thanks in advance and great site!

 

I would not get the '05. Between the 650i and the 750i, that's up to you.
Myself, I didn't want to be out riding somewhere and say to myself, I wish I had the 750. I haven't rode a 650i, but most say the power difference is not noticeable.

 

I like the 650 better as it's a little lighter and handles better.

 

I have owned a 2003 650 and now own a 2006 750 Brute. There is a noticeable power difference. Also, the 750 torque converter belt seems to be much stronger. With the 650, you can scorch the belt if not mindful to keep it in LOW when climbing steep hills or pulling a trailer (probably do the same with the 750 or any V-Twin with CVT). The 2003 650 had a solid rear axle. Did it handle better? Yes and no. If you are zooming and sliding around curves, the solid real axle is the usual choice. Nevertheless, from a comfort of ride perspective, the 750 independent rear suspension is the choice. BIG is not always BETTER especially if you do a lot of tight trail riding. Last comment, if you add a power module (CDI) on the 750, the DYNATEK is not the way to go. I hear that they work fine on 650s and 700s. I have a SECOND new one (replacement via vendor) which does not work with my 750...it can be had for $100 (shipping included).

 

The 750 is actually lighter, but it's nothing to even compare. The 750 is also bigger, giving more GC, again not really an issue worth mentioning, but it's the real world truth.

Anyone will tell you they like what they have, because they are afraid to say they made a bad decision. Although from what I read, the 650i and 750 are both monsters.

 

So I should stay away from the 05 750 then?

 

I would.
Trade in value on atvs seems to go more by the year than the miles. When you go to trade it in, it will be 2 years older than one you can purchase at this time. Take that into consideration with the price difference you can get. Also 2005 was the first model year of the brute force. If I had a choice and price wasn't too much different I would get the newer one.

 

I am not so much worried about trade in value as I am with the problems I have heard about the 05's tie rods..etc. But seeing as how there were some recalls the dealer should have done those already correct? The 650i would be plnety for what I am going to use it for but I have never been on a quad like the 750 that would pull the front tires up so fast for being a 4x4. Yes that may be the squid coming out in me but come on...wheelies are fun!!LOL Thanks for all the advice so far guys!

 

Lighter?? Really? Hmm. Actually I don't own either. The 750 is my fathers and cousins and the 650 is another cousin's. I will admit I made a bad descision with my quad. Nt very reliable for the most part.

 

The 03 650 and the new 650 are different animals when it comes to power. The new 650 is much stronger