I originally asked you about the Wolverine but decided as much as I like it, it is less suitable for my needs (more utility and mud bogging/hunting) due to limited low end torque and inadequate mud flaps.

I am considering the Kodiak based on my reading so far. However, most of the comments are regarding the 2000 and 2001 models which seem to include improvements over previous models. Since i am only interested in a 1996-1999 model (budget driven), I would like to know what features it has and how it compares to the newer models. A friend has a 2001 Big Bear 4x4 and it seems nice but many of you seem to favor the Kodiak.

Thanks for your comments.

 

I just bought a one-owner 95 kodiak. It has 1700 orig miles and is in seemingly great shape. The bikes all there and it is a solid quad. It looks good as well with aqua green and gold rims, warn winch. I got this one at a good price. This quad was probably top of the line in it's day for a 400. What year did the Kodiak come out?

2000 kodiak 4x4
2000 warn winch
Escavators
alum rear skid

1995 Kodiak 4x4
warn winch/2000
a-arm gards

 

The biggest difference is that the '00 and '01 are automatic (ultramatic) transmission. Manual shift pre-2000. Also, the bike has been updated in many ways. The engine is slightly bigger, 401cc vs. 386cc, liquid cooled, rear disc brake (which wears out almost immediately), more body panels, etc. Now some of these may be on the pre-2000, but I don't have one so I can't say for sure. I don't know if it is a fair comparision to rate them against each other. I only had one problem, with the water pump, but that was fixed for free even though it was over 1 year old. The 2000+ Kodiaks are bulletproof, I've rolled mine more than once and it was fine. Automatic with engine braking is awesome. I don't care what people say about belt drive automatics, mine has never slipped even in very deep water. I say save your money and wait for a 2000+, you won't be sorry.

 

The older Kodiaks are going to be similar in function to your friends Big Bear. Same engine, I believe, and manual shift transmission. It is a good machine. Many people prefer the new Kodiaks because they have the automatic, selectable 4x4, and liquid cooling. But there is nothing wrong with the older Kodiaks or Big Bears for that matter. They are not as fancy as the new Kodiaks, but good, solid, reliable quads.
Kman

 

I own a 99 Wolverine and I don't think I would trade it for a Kodiak, but if I were to buy the Kodiak it would be the 01 because of the speedo for the belt. My good buddy is going to be picking his up finally after selling his Timberwolf and 85 Honda 750 Shadow. He got $5600 out of both of them combined. Good down payment for it. Hes getting 26" Bearclaws put on it right from the dealer. I can't wait to see it!