I am shopping for a 4x4 in the 400 class. I have looked at Kodiak 400 4x4 auto, Prairie 400 4x4, and Polaris 425. I really like most things about the Kawa, but am concerned about no engine compression braking. I don,t do a lot of mountain riding but will ocassionally take the quad to Colorado to hunt. I am also concerned about isusses regarding jet changes and clutch adjustments for riding above 5000 feet. These were mentioned in ATV Connection review. I am large, 6'2 and 250 lbs. and will carry a passenger on some occassions. I would like comments to help me decide which, Prairie 400 or Kodiak.

 

I have a prarie 400 2wd. and i live on top of a mountain here in PA. and the question about compression braking is a good concern but mine is put to the test daily, I am 6'3" and weigh over 300lbs. and every where I ride I am going down hills and it is somewhat rough terrain and in low or high range there isn't much difference there is enough compression with a little braking to do a good job. I have owned and ridden different machines in the past and I couldn't be happier with my KAWASAKI. I think the prarie is the best value and best kept secret compared to the hype some of the other machines get. Go with the Kaw. and you won't be disappointed.Good Luck!!!!

 

Kofo, my 1997 Prairie 400 4x4 holds back well in low range until the engine slows down to a fast idle---thats when the belt dissengages and it freewheels. By touching the throttle and revving the engine a bit, it keeps the belt engaged and holds back well. This works great except when you are crawling down a hill at walking speed. Then you must use your brakes, and the Prairie has very good brakes. Its just a matter of getting used to the machine. See if you can ride the machines---even in the dealers parking lot, and you'll get a good idea of how well they all hold back. If you're not into a lot of very steep downhilling, it won't be an issue. The only complaint I've heard from people that ride that kind of terrain often was that they had more frequent brake lining replacements. The new Prairie has a higher high range and a lower low range than mine, so it will hold back even better than mine (it will also go faster---57mph!). EBS would be a nice brake saver though. As far as doubling goes,I seriously doubt if there is a better machine than the Prairie for carrying a passenger in comfort. If you're serious about the Kodiak, read the threads under Yamaha. There was one about the Kodiak water pump leaking, and it wasn't an isolated incident. You may want to question your dealer about it. They may have the problem solved now. With high altitude riding, most engine carburators need to be jetted to perform well in the thin air, not just the Prairie. Ask the dealer about the clutch adjustments---I'm not familiar with that. I've never ridden anywhere high enough to have a problem. I'll be really surprised if you buy the Prairie and aren't happy. It is a very well made machine. I hope you let us know what you buy.

 

I faced the same delema awhile back i went with the kodiak. The Prairie is a very nice machine but the Kodiak has KILLER EBS and disk brakes front and rear. The Kodiak also weighs 50 or so lbs less and is 2wd 4wd selectable. I own 2 and have had no problems. It is also about 300.00 less then a Prairie. It really is not fair to compare them the Kodiak wins hands down. Not that the Kawi is a bad machine but its hard to compare a 4 year old designe to a brand new one.