I have been looking at both of these machines and cannot decide on wether to shift or go auto. I am 6'1", 275# and want to plow snow, trail ride and hunt. I do not care about speed, I just need something reliable and that will fit me and my needs. Thanks

 

Hey, co, u should get the big bear/ im about your size, and use my quad for everything u want to do// its geared very low, so its good for plowing// i do alot of trail riding and also huntwith the bigbear// Its a little on the slow side, but its an animal in the trail/mud/snow

 

thats a hard descision......

personally, just from past exp id go with the kodiak....had 5200 miles on it and i replaced the belt once, and it wasnt even broken

then again the big bear is just a tank

 

I went through this same dilemna a while back. I finally settled on the Kodiak because of its full floorboards (keeps you amazingly clean in the muck), its more "athletic" feel, and the ability to shift in/out of 4wd. Later model Big Bears may have selectable 4wd; I'm not certain. Also, if you go with the Kodiak 450, you get a differential lock (not available on the 400 or the Big Bear), which will get you out of situations for which the Big Bear will need a winch. Good luck with the purchase.

 

I would get the kodiak the auto tranny is nice plus as 700cc said the full floorboards are really nice so between the auto tranny and floorboards it will make for a nice smooth ride

 

Having owned both a 2000 big bear 400 and a 05 kodiak 450, I would say go with the kodiak, though both are fine machines, I find that the kodiak is quite bit easier on my back with long rides and I am sold on the automatic and diff lock.

 

Excellent input so far, I appreciate it. I am surprised that the sift atv's are not more popular. I am hoping to decide next week, so any more input would be great. Thanks

 

I would test drive both of em. I like the BB and the Kodiak pretty much equally![img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif[/img] Its a tough choice so dont rush into it and then be sorry about your decision. The BB is pretty old technology, but pretty much bullet proof. The kodiak has all the new technology and tough as nails, so it basiclly comes down to your personal prefrence. Good luck and let us know what you choose.[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-cool.gif[/img]

 

CO:


Get the Kodiak. I kick myself everyday for not getting the Kodiak.

This is what i think is better about the kodiak

better ride, IRS, Bigger Motor, Floor Boards, Auto Trans and I think it even looks better

 

Another thing, co, the Kodiak uses rear disc brakes, as opposed to the drums on the BB.