New to the site, looks like I'm going to be hooked for a while! I'm wanting to purchase my first ATV and a buddy of mine is offering me his 2003 Magnum 330 2x4 for $2500. It looks brand spankin' new and has low hours. I want it for some trail riding and playing in the mud every now and then. A few friends of mine tell me that a Honda is the only way to go. One has a Foreman and the other a Rancher and both say they'll never buy anything else. What do you think? Would this be a good "starter" 4-wheeler? I figured it would be something that I could ride for a couple of years and as long as I keep taking care of it...get my money back out of it. I would appreciate any opinions or comments. THANKS!

Ryan

 

If you know how its been cared for, it's not a bad price. NADA for my area shows a low retail of 2300 and a average retail of 3000. Remember what are Mom's used to always tell us, "If your friends jumped off a bridge, would you do it to?". Hondas aren't bad, but if they were that great, wouldn't they be the only brand selling? You'll like the smoothness of the shaft drive. Don't plan on winning any races, just having fun and you'll be OK.

 

I know a farmer that has 12000 miles on a heavy abused Magnum 4x4 and loves it. He's only issue is replacing the belt every 1000 miles ... but the crap he tows around the farm is WAY heavier than he should!

 

I Just want the thing to get through some mud...and not embarrass me too much through the woods[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif[/img] Also, it's a lot more afordable than a Honda! If someone can vouch that it's a quality machine that will last then I'm going to hand my buddy a check. Thanks for the reply!

 

I have a 04 Magnum 330 4x4 and it was myfirst wheeler. I will say you prolly won't win many races but I was able to bet a Foreman 350 (not by much though) as far as mud I haven't been stuck yet (keep in mind mine is 4x4) but that part of the fun if you do. I would say go for it depending on your size.

 

Basically, you have a shaft drive Trail Boss. Most people that have a Boss will tell you it is a quality machine. I've had no problems with my 4x4. Although I have discovered they do not run well when upside down.

 

I bought my wife one 2 years ago and she loved it. It was very very stable and had decent power. I would highly recommend it. See if they will come down a couple hundred. ITs not too bad of a price. The thing I like about Polaris is the comfort. They have nice big seats and automatic for a reasonable price. All brands are good. Each has their perks.

 

I thought that Polaris ATVs were chain driven, I didn't realize that the Magnum was a shaft drive. I'm going to take a look at the bike this evening. Thanks for your replies. It helps!

 

If its a magnum then it will have a clutch and belt system that provides the power to the transmission, after that it is a shaft drive unit. Very stable, agile, nice ride comfort and depedable. Its a good deal. I have a 2000 model 325 4WD magnum, my two cousins have the 2003 model 330 2WD. He has a little weight on him (about 220) and he takes it where he wants to go with stock tires.

 

Thanks for the reply yunt2ride. Makes me feel a little better. I just want whatever I buy to be reliable. I'm sure everyone takes that chance when purchasing an ATV...even if it is a Honda. For some reason, lots of people express negative opinions towards Polaris's line of ATVs. I have heard some horror stories about older models but never anything with their newer products. I would imagine it's all about how you treat them...isn't it? I would think that if I take care of it, it will take care of me. Just my 2 cents...from a rookie. Keep the replies coming! I appreciate it!

Ryan