what is the most reliable quad out right now? im looking for another quad for the lady friend and would like to know what quad is the most reliable and will be running strong for a while. any opinons are appreciated. i want something that has a bulletproof engine and a pretty clean record when it comes to drivetrain and suspension. any help is appreciated.

 

Well, any of the major manufacturers will build a reliable quad but then you can get a "lemon" in any brand. I myself prefer Honda because they build a reliable engine. They may lack some features of other makes but Honda makes a great "no frills" machine.
I own a 05 Rancher 4x4 with a manual tranny and my girlfriend has an 04 Yamaha Bruin that has a belt drive tranny. Being automatic, it's easier for her to drive because she has a hard time shifting mine. Not that it's hard to shift...it's the hand, foot thing she has problems with. Her Bruin sits higher than my Rancher, will out accelerate my Rancher(Rancher has higher top speed) and has selectable 4wd and she loves it. It starts easy, runs good but is now starting to seep oil past the valve stems. I had a Kodiak that did the same thing after 2 years.

I don't think you can go wrong with any of the top builders.....just look around this forum and others to see where the problems are with each brand.

 

I dont think anyone can dispute the reliability of a basic honda quad like the Rancher 350 or the forman (older 450 or the new 500). ES - electric shift models may cause trouble, but the manual shift models are very reliable and stout.

 

must add that a rancher will out pull a bruin anyday.. lol. much more low end..

 

You are right Johnny......the Rancher will out pull the Bruin.

The Bruin is a nice machine and like I said, it's easy for her to drive.
I might add that being her Bruin sits higher than my Rancher, it makes the Bruin "tippsy" at speed. I don't dare drive it around corners or sharp curves as fast as I do my Honda.

Main thing is she loves it and is satisfied with it. I'm 53 and she's 48 and she loves running through mud on that thing! You should see her after a days ride!

 

great!

i was intentionally going to buy a Bruin but once i was able to get the rancher at about the same price with the plow ... i got the rancher.. more power means better plowing..

I sat on the Burin and the Rancher at the showroom and noticed the bruin felt a little awkward with the seet high and the handle bars lower.. i really like the comfort of the Rancher.

 

Go with the 2006 450 polaris 4x4 it will have all the power she will ever need and my wif loves it because it is easy for her to steer.It aslo has an unbeliveable comfortable ride she calls it the lincon of quads.

 

eiger 400, best bang for the buck and very few problems period. Lots of power 100kms/hr stock and still 90+ with 26" mudlites.