Directions...
1) Have can of worms...
2) Open it.

Ok, I didn't post this on the Honda site for the obvious reason that I want a fairly un-biased opinion. In my recent exhaustive research into a new 4x4 ATV, I've decided and then changed my mind about a dozen different times. I keep coming back to the basics:

A) I want a 450 to 500 cc Automatic ATV with selectable 2wd/4wd.
B) Front diff lock not that important to me (if the quad I pick has one...ok, if not...ok too).

That being said, I've found that comparing Honda to almost any other brand, there is a premium to be paid. Rincon vs Prairie 650/700...difference about $700. Rubicon vs Vinson...difference about $700.

I've read all the articles and reviews on the Hondamatic tranny and their new "Automotive" tranny ala Rincon, but my question is this. For my use (hunting, snow plowing and maybe a little trail riding), is the Honda worth the extra money over other brands?

If I've stated anything blatently incorrect, by all means correct me. I thought I was wrong once but I was mistaken.

Thanks...JT

 

I bought a Rincon because I thought I was making the smart choice. I figured it would be low geared enough with the torque converter type tranny. I am now selling it or the dealership I bought it from is going to sell it for me if they aren't a bunch of liars. Which I wouldn't doubt that they are.

It would do the job but its quiet scary to to me climbing steep inclines with the high first gear. This is not a down and dirty low-end tuned type of 4X4 machine. Be sure your getting a machine that is gonna meet your conditions and requirments reguardless of the name brand. You mentioned hunting plowing etc.. I would suggest a machine with a low range like the rubicon for this type of riding or working.

One thing I will saY about the rinny I think it would hold up over time better than most other brands.

 

Thanks for responding. Sounds like you've been having some issue with the Honda.

I've heard the Foreman is a good work quad, but to my understanding, the Foreman is a manual trans w/auto clutch. To get the auto trans, you have to go with the Rubicon and the higher price.

I've looked at and rode the Vinson, but I'm not sure if it is the right machine to do the chores.

Any opinions appreciated.

JT

 

Well i feel i have to stick up for this quad (Rincon) now for some who venture into questionable mud depths and extremely sharp inclines, i think there might be a better option than the Rincon, but for someone such as myself, it fit the bill for what i was looking for. Now i will agree it needs mods from the factory for lack of low end, which i will be doing. But i knew that before i bought it. I know the owner who bought my 1987 Trx200sx from me in 1989, it is still running on the original engine, the proper upkeep has kept it running (a senior citizen owns it and runs around his local fields) Anyway, i just figured id leave some good feedback for Honda. I am up to look at other brands, i think if i were to get another Utility quad, i would definitely go look at a King Quad. And as far as a sport quad, i really like those kfx700's.

 

Wolftoe,

So you plow with the Rincon...any issues? I know Honda's reputation for quality and have nothing against them, I was just wondering if the premium paid was worth it over other brands...all other things being equal.

JT

 

Well i paid for the plow on friday, and it should be delivered by tuesday. So i don't technically have a plow yet. I just added it to the signature (same goes for the bumper) Anyway, i definitely will leave some feedback when i finally get to use the plow. (ocean temp has a long ways to drop before we can think about accumlating snow, i live on a peninsula and the only way it accumulates is if the water is below 40 here) As for the Rincon so far, i have only 113 miles on it, changed the oil at 96 (very slow process of pouring the oil in!), didnt ride today, went out looking for stripers (striped bass for those of you in areas of the country where these fish arent local to). Got a 26 incher last sunday, nothing today. Ok, i took that offtopic!.........Anyway, get whatever quad you feel will fit your needs the best and whover gives you the best deal, etc.

 

The new 05 Foreman has an electric shift model that according to some sources also has a programed automatic electric shift option. I am waiting to see the new Foreman ES to find out for sure what this is all about. They are becoming available in dealers now so you could find out soon. Maybe someone on here has seen this and can confirm if true or not.
I'm sure you know about the Rancher AT 400 but you said you want 450 to 500.

 

The rubicon has best in class three speed auto trans. it is perfect for hills, and there are no belts.

 

the rubicon has 5 not 3

 

We ride with a fairly large and diverse group of ATVs. Our 01 Rubicon has been trouble free for 5000 miles except for one $5.95 upper control arm bushing that I replaced close to 4800 miles. The only other trouble free ATVs in our group besides our 02 Rancher ES 4x4 is an 02 Rubicon and one Grizz 660. Our friends are switching to Honda simply because of the reliability.

The Rubicon is a very agressive ATV and its transmission take a backseat to no other ATV trans. Two high range drive "ranges", D1 & D2+ ESP with 5 pre-selected "gears". Low range with one fully automatic range (D2) and ESP mode. The trans make this ATV flat fun to ride. Engine braking that can't be beat.

IMHO, the best 500cc ATV out there. The 05 has everything you want.