Hello

This is my first message on this forum; you have a really nice community here. I'm Alessandro, 27, currently living in Panama - Rep. of Panama. I've been riding since 1999 a 2 stroke Yamaha WR 250 - great bike! Tomorrow the new owner will come pick it up... [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-sad.gif[/img]

I'm looking for the first time to purchase an ATV vehicle. I've never owned one and my riding experience has been very limited (maybe 3 hours in my entire life!). So I'm definetely looking for some advice...

Primary use will be for all day long Sunday trips in very muddy areas.
Primary concerns for me are: Comfort and Good Off Road (MUD) capabilities. Manuvrability is important but not fundamental, as the paths are usually not very narrow.

Considering that I'm very light weight (135 lbs, 5'8''), what would you suggest between the Kawasaki Brute Force 650i and Yamaha Grizzly 700?

I know the Yamaha has power steering... Is the difference with the Kawasaki very big in terms of driver fatigue after a few hours of riding?

Thanks for your advice and sorry for asking all these questions on my first post! [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

Saludos a todos,
Alessandro

 

My vote is for the 700 Grizzly. It is a more refined bike than the 650i with a more comfortable seat. The Kawi 650i is a good bike but the Grizz would be overall a more pleasurable ride and be more dependable.

 

Yamaha...duh...I like the 450

 

On June 12, 2007 Yamaha will announce the 2008 model line. I would wait and see what is new for 2008 before buying anything. You may be able to get a 2007 model for less $$$. Check the Yamaha website after 9:00PM Pacific time on the 12th for new model details.

Whatever you buy, wear a helmet; ride with common sense, and enjoy your new toy!.

 

Patarix,
I own a 2007 Grizzly 700, and my father owns a 2007 Brute Force 650i, so I have spent a lot of seat time on both ATVs. The Brute Force has quicker throttle response and noticeably more power. The Grizzly has better suspension, a lower center of gravity, is more sure footed and stable feeling, has better handling, and better steering. When I ride the Grizzly I am happy riding it all day long. When I ride the Brute Force, without fail, I want to get back on the Grizzly before I have ridden for 20 to 30 minutes. I definitely prefer the Grizzly overall, but the quicker response of the Brute Force is also a lot of fun. See if you can ride them both, and go with the one you like the best.

DV