I am going to buy a new 2000 Rancher. I was wondering if i should get the fe or the fs. any comments would help.

 

Getting either the electric or foot shift model is a matter of what you are used to. If you are used to a foot shift atv, then the FM model may be a better choice. Some people are used to using their foot to shift, hence the buttons may be difficult to get accustomed to.

I got a FE model Rancher. This is the first ATV that I've owned. I like the electric shift. It works well and is very simple to operate. For me, using a foot shifter would be difficult and I know I wouldn't like it.

Note, the main difference between the FM and FE are Electric Shift and Manual. The Cost difference is $200 (More for the FE). However, the FE also has the digital display, as well as full floorboards vs. 1/2.

The decision is yours, but I think the better deal is the FE. Good luck...

 

Electric shift is bought by two people, those who like the idea, and those who are new to quads. The manual is bought mainly by people that think the electric shift is a load of useless manure, and people who have been riding nothing but manuals for a long time. Its an easy choice really. I would get the manual, but I really liked riding the electric shift the one time that I had the chance. It does in fact shift quicker than you could with your foot. It was wierd though when I tried to go in reverse. Pushed the button, pulled the brake and shifted a big mess of air with my foot. I guess its what you are used to.

 

Foot or finger shifting are easy but with the finger shifter you get nice floor boards to stand on instead of watch you don't slip foot pegs.

 

I hated thumb throttle at first as I was used to dirt bikes. But, it took about 15 minutes to get used to it and the ES is apparently the same thing. If you can chew gum and type on the computer, it should not be a big deal.

 

I'm not new to quading, and I love my ES. I got it becase it was only a $200 difference in price and I liked the simplicity of use. I've only attempted to foor shift 1 time, and that was after I'd been riding a friends Warrior, I attempted to clutch to: need not tell you how stupid I looked.

I honestly believe it's hard to wrong with ES.

 

I bought the ES 4x4 for the ease of shifting. Not that the foot shift is difficult, but this is y2k so lets go for hi-tech. The floor boards are a plus and you would probly go out and buy after market($100.00) floor boards anyway.The only thing I wish Honda would have done is add a dimmer on the dash lights for night riding. The dash is real bright. The clock is a nice touch also. Eather one will be a good rig. HONDA= trouble free

 

A $200 price difference go with the ES. The speedo is worth that alone. Those full floor boards are nice. My wife ride a Recon (1/2 floor boards) gets more mud on her.

Really is preference, but the ES is nice