I have owned machines from all the big makers and I would say they are all good, never had to much bad luck with any of them, suzuki believe it or not being the most reliable, Yamaha was up there too till the tranny in my 02 raptor exploded. Out of those you have listed I would take the Vinson first followed very closely by the Kodiak. Polaris makes a nice bike too, but they are kinda heavy compared to the jap makers, and a little slower. But I doubt you would have any problems with any you have listed here if you take care of it.

 

You really can't go wrong buying either a Kawasaki, Yamaha,Suzuki, or Honda. I like the Prairie 650 and 700's because (I own one) and Kawasawki has put it altogether in one well built, proven machine. Example, Prairie 650 and 700 have extremely powerful V twin engine, realiable and easy to maintain belt driven automatic, front and rear disc brakes,(rear brakes bathed in oil),locking diff.,push button 4x4,rev. overide button, digital display, unbelieveable engine braking, and I could go on and on.Did I mention the V TWIN ENGINE with POWER to burn. Until you have ridden this ATV you won't believe its smooth engine and "get up and go" excelleration and power. Do alot of research before you buy one ,and Good Luck!

 

I would get the Kodiak or Vinson. The choice comes down to whether you want an IRS or SRA machine.

I have no idea why you would say you don't trust Suzuki because the Vinson has won every 500cc shootout since its creation. In fact it is one of the most reliable quads you can buy. Once you choose I'm sure you'll find that any of these will do whatever you ask of it. One thing I would add to your mods is a winch. Never leave home with one. Good luck and happy trails.

 

ahhh get the kodiak ... independent rear suspension ... you cant go wrong

 

Alky...IRS is not enough reason to buy a quad...there are several quads with IRS...

 

Just get the grizz.

 

I would look long and hard at the Kawasaki Brute Force 650. I am not saying that just because I have one. It is in the price range of the quads you are looking at and will blow all of them out of the water, mud, sand, and snow. MSRP $6599, but going in many places for $5800 US dollars. Take a look at ATV ACTION MAGAZINE's shootout of the best 4x4 for under $7000. They compare it to the Vinson and the Forman and it walks all over them for the same price.

 

They are selling the 450 kodiak in michigan for 55-5600 OTD no tax. can't go wrong with the kodiak in my opinion. the only thing it lacks is a little power and speed to the 500HO polaris, but it is a lot lighter, more agile, and I think it has a better 4x4 system, and braking system. If you are going to go up to the polaris in that price range you might as well get the griz. I like the lighter quads to go around trails on. The 450 kodiak rides just like a polaris too (man they ride nice).