I used to own a '99 traxter the thing is a work horse. I have ridin' Sportsmans , Magnums, and Grizzlys. From my experience I would say there is nothing out there that will out do it . The Sportsman has the ride but I take the Magnum over it the ride is pretty close . The Grizzly has the power but if you can't get it to the ground what good is it .The Traxter's diff excels anything out there plus has very light steering for the weight of it .I never noticed the gas tank not being between my legs. I now own a 2000 500 Scrambler because I wanted to go through trails faster and still have 4x4. Sometimes I wish I still had the "TRACTOR" I mean Traxter.The storage was awesome and maintinance was easier than any atv. My one complaint was I had some shifting problems but it was the first year out. The wieght and ground clearance was never a problem. I could go up hills , along the side of hills with ease because it was so stable. I think the Traxter is a very solid machine but the reliabilty has yet to be determined. It never let me down and I worked it very hard. I do like my scrambler better for trails and my riding style.