I'm looking around at some new and used Hawkeyes (really liking the mid-size frame).

It looks like 2006 was the first model year. Like with anything else I'm a little hesitant to buy the first model year. Have there been significant upgrades/fixes between '06-'07-'08?

Edit: How does the dual clutch system compare to a machine with hi/lo? I'll be doing some amount of grunt work with it (plowing, pulling loaded trailers...) and am wondering if I need a machine with low range.

Thanks!!

 

i have a 06 hawkeye 4x4 and have nothing bad to say about it... like you the mid-size frame is what attracted me to the machine... the hawkeye is more than capable of keeping up with the larger machines on the trails but the straight-aways you will see the limits of the 300cc's.... some recalls have been put out for the 06 (front wheel bearing carrier assembly, steering post) ask the owner if he has had any of the work done.. i would go take it for a test ride and see for your self, it has impressed me... just remember that it is an entry level machine so dont expect 800cc performance from a 300cc quad... oh yeah you have no need for low range with the clutch set up.... this thing will pull damn near anything its crazy....

 

I have to agree with Gunsmoke totally. My 06 has performed flawlessly with no complaints. You can see on the avatar that it is on Tracks and that puts a load on it full time. PVT (Polaris Variable Transmission) is as good as the H/L selector, as it decides what drive range (like gear) that is best for your throttle setting (RPM) and forward speed. If you find one you like, buy it with confidence!

 

With Polaris' RIDE FREE Event or whatever it's called, you can get into a 2008 with nothing down and no payments until 2009. I think the 2008 Sportsman 400 (Hawkeye with 450 engine in it) would suit you well. It is basically a Hawkeye with Sportsman 450 engine in it. Stendori just got one and seems to be impressed with it so far.

I had a 2006 Hawkeye and had no problems with it other than some dry rear upper A arm bushings that would squeak something fierce. Keep them greased and they will stay quiet. Good luck!

 

I appreciate all the comments so far. Anybody else want to compare the Hawkeye clutch system to a hi/lo gear setup? How about a link to an explanation of how this system works?

 

my best advice would be to do a web search on the CVT.. you will be suprized how many manufacturers use this set-up on cars.. it would be alot of typing to explain how it works.... but it's like a chain saw no matter how fast the motor is running it is always in the correct "grear" im not all that technical but just did a search and the page i looked at had about 5 pages explaining it... not the most interesting reading (or you could like it) but it will answer your questions... but as sheepdog said the new sportsman 400 is friggin awesome and will most likely end up best in class....