Looking for some feedback what sounds like a better deal a 2001 arctic cat 400 4x4 brand new for around 4500 or a used 2000 explorer 400 4x4 with 150 miles for around 4200 thanks for your repsonses

Billy

 

well the 400 Xplorer would be faster and have more power, 150 miles is pratically brand new, but the AC has full shafts all the way around were the Xplorer has rear chain drive. I am not a fan of chain drive, shafts are way easier to own. I am a Polaris man but I would say the AC 400. Just becuase of the shaft drive all the way around.

 

I like, and believe in Polaris as well. But I think I would go with the new AC as well. Shaft drive is the only way to go on utility quads. Arctic Cat has had great reviews from the magazines, and, if those 150 miles are anything like the miles I put on my quads.............

 

The warranty on the new machine is worth something also. And, not that the Polaris will need it so don't even start on that

 

Thanks guys it is nice to see that I can get honest opinions on this forum I wasn't sure it was possible !

Have a great day!

Billy

 

Get the cat it will last longer.

 

I am going to be the black sheep here. It depends on what you want to do with the quad. I have 3 chains on my 98' Xplorer without any problems in 2700 miles. The Xplorer is faster and stronger but it really depends on what you like. Ride both just to be sure.

Brian

 

It depends on your use. For utility WORK, I do think that in the long run you will be better off with the Cat. As stated, shaft drive, plus for steady, slow speed pulling, the 4 cycle engine of the Cat will be better suited for that sort of thing. The Cats I have seen are good utility machines, solidly built, but not fast trail machines.
That said, the Xplorer is a great machine, too. If you like to play around, and enjoy spirited trail riding, it is a much better choice. The '99 and newer Xplorers are shaft drive to the front, eliminating 2 of the 3 chains. I have 3600 miles on mine, doing lots of trail riding and light to moderate farm work on the original chain. The front sprocket is showing wear, but should go a while yet. The rest of the machine is going strong. The only real weaknesses I can think of are brakes that wear out faster than most, and the plastic steering bushing that uses a rubber thrust washer. I replaced the rubber thrust washer with a metal one, and will someday need to replace the bushing. A 'lifetime' metal one is only $35, but you still have to go to the workd to do it. For '01 they come from the factory with the metal bushing. Ride them both and see which you like better.

 

good advice guys thank you !!!

billy