Hey fellow atvers,
In the next few weeks I will be purchasing a new atv and I'm stuck between the three atvs listed above. I don't want to have a slow atv but I would like to have one with a semi auto(Big Bear) but if it's a snail of an atv I might have to settle for an auto. So what are your opinions about the three atvs listed above(or any others). I want to have an atv to learn on before I go buy a Outlander 1000XT. My riding style is pretty hard on an atv so it needs to hold up pretty well.

EDIT: What about the Fourtrax Foreman 4x4? Can you add a diff- locker?

As you can see I have no idea as to what atv I want but, the only thing that is pulling me to the honda is the larger CC engine and the semi auto (not esp) and those 2 are the highest on my list.

 

If your ride elevation changes quite a bit, then look for fuel injection.

A semi-automatic will perform better with altitude changes because you control the engine speed. An auto like the Kaw must be re-clutched to run better as altitude gets higher.

Kaw clutches, at least on my 2000 Prairie, were made of inferior metal and the faces are prone to wearing. That is what the Kaw shop told me. I've had a Comet brand on for many years and don't notice any wear on the faces.

I am at 1100' and ride 8-12,000 once a year. I don't reclutch but I can tell you my EX250 Honda is equal to the Prairie 400 at altitude because the semi-auto allows you to control shift points.

If riding rocks, ground clearance is your friend. Check for things that hang low like the rear diff and in my case the rear brake as well.

I'm sure they all have selectable 4x4 mode.

Autos may be more prone to slippage of the belts if fording deep water. I haven't had the problem but it is possible.

I heard power steering is great but I don't have it and it probably isn't an option on these anyhow.

 

Your weight is an important consideration. I weigh 165 lbs, drive aggressively and ride mountains in Western PA.
With that said, I currently own 3 4x4 Prairies. What I like about them is that from 2005 through 2012 they are identical. I can buy any parts on ebay for about 20% retail.
I also own an 09 Polaris 500 EFI touring and a 07 Suzuki 500 Vinson, so I can compare the power to these. With these 2 I usually have to buy the parts at the dealer because they aren't as readily available on ebay.

I actually prefer the Prairie, over the 500's I own, because it's so easy to slide around turns, as well as it has never bogged down on steep hills.
It's also been very reliable, not to mention it's basic technology.

I wouldn't buy one new, as I did my 09, rather I'd like for a good used one.
I just bought a 2005 in great condition for $2200, and around here that's pretty much what they go for.

BTW - don't get "caught up" with the salesman talking you into buying something that is too big and expensive. It's his job, but it's your money.