I have been thinking oabout getting the eiger but it just seems too small. But wheni sit on a 500 it seems a tad big. Maybe a 450 will do. How is the kodiak's performance vs the eiger's?

 

I think the kodiak can beat the eiger and take the 400 champ title. It has IRS which is sweet for a 400.Topic is still open for discussion[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif[/img]

 

No question, the kodiak will have more power and speed, Its water cooled motor is 425 cc, vs a air cooled motor on the eiger .
The kodiak also comes standard with a locking front end, and has an edge on ground clearance, and the tow rating is about 400 lbs more.

 

I think the suspension would be the deciding factor along with looks. I prefer a straight axle for sportier riding, but if you want comfort, go with the IRS. I personally do not like the looks of the Eiger. The Eiger has done reallY well in magazine shootouts for what that is worth. I think you would be happy with either. Test ride before you buy any machine!

 

I did not see hondabuster's post before I replied and he makes some really good points. The diff lock is something that you'll be glad you have if you ride rough and muddy terrain.

 

These two machines are not apples to apples anymore.The Kodiak lists for $800.00 more I believe but you get a frt locker,IRS,water cooled engine,disc brakes frt AND rear and something else no one ever mentions and that is Yamaha has the park position rather than just locking the brake.The Eiger for the money is a great buy hands down.As far as performance the Kodiak is actually a 421cc and the Suzuki is 376 I believe.We have an Eiger in our group and I have ridden it.To me they are as quick as a Kodiak.The one think I don't like is the Eiger is MUCH wider at the feet than the Yamaha...it feels like you are riding a horse.For a few hundred dollars you can get many more options with the Kodiak but the Eiger is a good bike just a less sophisticated.
02 650 Camo

 

putting a quad into diff lock is like turining it into a tank. its that simple, go anywhere capabilities. Differntial lock cannot be touched once your in mud or deep snow.

 

can someone explain to me what diff lock is.

 

Ya i have the same question.I think ill go with the kodiak tho. thx

 

The Eiger was one of my choices when I was looking for a quad. I went with the Kodiak 450 for the reasons mentioned above. It just seemed to give me more for my money. The locking dif when engaged makes all four whells turn. In a standard 4X4 only one wheel pulls in front. Some have limites slip which lets the wheels alternate if one slips. With the Kodiack they bith are engaged. I did not really think that was an option that was important to me but I have since used it on a couple of steep hills and now am glad I have it.