My friend is looking at buying an ATV utility model. I'm more into the racing models....So I can't offer much FACTUAL information.

He's a very tall man, and trying to decide between the Kodiak 450, and the Honda Rubicon 500.

I'm looking for any factual data as to why one is better than the other. I know that everyone has their OPPINIONS, but please, I need actual facts.

thanks in advance!

*****
87 LT500R "Quadzilla"
Basket case reincarnation
bored to the max, stroker kit with lightened crank
trimmed

"I live with fear every day...and sometimes she let's me drive"

 

Is he looking for SPORT/utility or just UTILITY?

Fact-Kodiak took atv of the year for about 5 years running untill the Rubicon came along. They are both top of the line machines for the size.

Opinion- I think the Kodiak is a slightly sportier ride while the rubicon will just about pull a house down and has a great tranny, not real sporty though.

 

Fact-The rubicon has a real automatic transmission while the kodiak has belt drive.

 

that's true s_jumper, but it shouldn't be in the same category as the other belt drives because, it's belt in in constant engagement. It doesn't use a spring in the primary (i.e. Polaris, and Kawasaki) This means belt life is way longer. I have had mine slip, when I floated my Kodiak in a creek, but pulled the drain plug and away I went. I maintain my buddy's older Grizz, and am very impressed with the durability of the transmission and drive, in Yamaha, as he only uses it to work, and tow. I have a Honda too, but, it's an old shifter.

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Good points, fact he can't go wrong either way. I think these two are equal overall. I've always, always had good luck with hondas and thats also a fact.

 

The only facts I can give you are on the kodiak and one on the rubicon. The rubicon is fulltime 4wd for now and the kodiak is selectable. I ride mostly trails and mud with mine and it does fine, I do push a plow in the winter no problems as I'm sure the rubicon can do very well also. I do know for a fact that the kodiak is sportier because I ride with a rubicon but but the kodiak is smaller too, I'm 6'2" 230 and it fits me fine. Mybe with a selectable 4wd system the rubicon would be closer or as sporty.