I bought a 2000 Kodiak and have not had any problems out of it. A buddy of mine had a rancher and my kodiak won 3/3 drag races,this is with me wieghing about 50lbs. heavier. I rode the rancher on the trails and it neraly beat me to death. The kodiak has a much better & comfortable ride. My opinion and personal preference, the auto lets you enjoy the ride better, for you are not always thinking of your gears.