I've been on the Big Bear 2wd, liked it for value, and it steered easy. (Never had a 4wd)
BUT, on the property I ride on , (south louisiana) the 2wd got through everything, but maybe not everytime. Friend said I won't like 4wd 'cause the manuvering through woods is harder. Don't race, just go in the woods, mud logging trails.
Any opinions on the Joy of 2wd vs 4wd? Want a new one soon.
Thanks

 

although many people wont agree with me, I would much rather have a 2wd. With an experienced rider, a 2wd can go through a lot. plus, the new big bears have lots of ground clearence. You may also want to check out the prarie 400, and rancher 2wd's. Whatever you choose, you will be able to slide, do donuts, and whellie way better than a 4*4.you also save money and weight, and generally have faster aceleration and top speeds for the same modle.Ex-rancher4*4es-83kph
rancher2*4es-86kph

 

THE 4x4 no contest on the places you can go!U will feel extra secure knowing when you go into the woods you will be coming out.So spend the extra$$$$ and get the 4x4 and a warn winch.So a 4x4 may turn a lil better but the 4wheel drive is tha $hit!!

 

Well, in my opinion, I would choose the 4wd. The new 4x4 quads are alot easier to steer than the older one ( I don't know what your friend is ridding, depends on the machine ). The key thing with 2wd quad is usually the momentum but with 4wd, you can just crawl your way up ( there's also a limit ). Also, it can be stupid but there is a big difference in the traction you get when you are in reverse (4wd/2wd) if you can't go foward anymore... the only down side (for me) would be the money. I hope this help.

 

i ment 2 say 2x4 turns better lol oopsee

 

I'm with wheeliedude. I had a brand new 99 Big Bear, full time 4X4. I had it for 2 months. Sold it and got the 2000 Kodiak. Full time 4X4 is just plain miserable if you enjoy quick trail riding. You can't slide, donuts are out of the question. If you are into farm work, and rock crawling, full time 4X4 is fine.

Why not look at quads that can go in and out of 4 wheel drive? That, is the only way to go.

 

The fact that you even have to ask this question indicates a probable concern for having a 4x4 ATV.I agree with the guys who are telling you to buy a 4x4 ATV instead of a 2wd.The first time you get stuck on a 2wd,you will wish that you spent the extra 1000 for a 4wd ATV,I promise that much.

I also agree with the guys that tell you to buy a switchable 2wd-4wd ATV,they are much more fun and the steering is GREAT!
Good Luck,
Bill

 

Strength is in numbers!!!

 

You say you ride logging trails? Try sliding your 2x4 over a 20 inch diameter log. Front wheels go up and over then you're stuck. Now you have to get off and muscle your machine around so you can keep up with the rest of the riders now 500 feet up the trail. With 4x4 you are up and over - rear wheels push, then front wheels pull.

Go 4x4 if you need utility value -vs- sport riding.

 

The only real advantage of the 2x4 over the 4x4 big bear is the price. 4x4 Yamahas are very easy to steer unless you are riding on pavement.

If you buy the 2x4 you'll always wish you had the 4x4. If you buy the 4x4, it'll cost you a little extra, but you'll enjoy it every time you come to a mudhole or a slippery hill, and in a hundred other situations.