Hey all - back here after a 3-4 year hiatus. I used to own a Kawi Brute 750 and although the power couldnt be beat I wasnt all that happy with the overall quality of the machine. The belt was finicky, the 4WD mechanism was shaky, and that damned KEBC/error blinking light. Anyways, Im back in the market and the KQ 450i is on my short list for possible purchase.

The 450i looks to have everything I want - Lower price than the Big Bores, full size chassis, injection, sealed rear brake, IRS, and other good features. I have to ask though: Hows the belt system on the Zooks? If there is one area that scares me its the CVT systems used in ATVs these days. I just dont know if I trust them after my issues and reading various other peoples problems with them. The problem is that in order to get fuel injection, IRS, and sealed rear brakes it seems you MUST go with a CVT setup.

The Hondas have my attention because of their non-belt systems but Hondas are expensive and Ranchers seem so small when I sit on them compared to the 450i KQ.

Any other 450i issues I should know about? Thanks in advance!

 

Here is a KQ 450 winning a 500 Utility shootout comparison if that means anything to you.500 Class Clash

The only non CVT ATV came in dead last.

The make a new 500 KQ if a little more power without alot more price.