My wife and I are looking at a new pair of utility quads from the 2002 lineups.

She wants a 400 4x4 and I am looking at 500+ 4x4. We have narrowed down to Yamaha (Grizz and Kodiak) or Arctic Cat (500i and 400i). We both love the ride of the independant suspension (front and rear).

I am attracted by the AC pricing, but have heard some rumors about problematic engines. Aren't they made by Suzuki? Also, I would love to get some testimonials from current owners.

We intend to do some fairly serious trail riding here in Idaho and I will be pulling loads. My wife LOVES mud riding and I expect she'll be neck deep in it at every opportunity.

So, given all of that, what do you all think?

Thanks,

 

I don't know anything about any of those machines that I haven't read on here, but I saw a new 660 Griz at the dealers last weekend, and that thing just looks SWEEEEET! If things were based on looks alone... I don't think anything would beat it in the mud.

In 5 years or so I will end up swapping the Warrior for a 2 and 4 wheel drive machine... need to pay this off first, and I would like one w/ a lower center of gravity.

 

AC suck in the mud their belts slip real easy but if you get the manuals it should be fine your best bet would be Yamaha!!! (My opinion and I do alot of mudding)[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif[/img]

 

On the contrary, an automatic AC might slip in mud, but the manual does pretty damn good in it. The locking diff of the Grizz would give it superior mud capability as long as it doesn't slip the belt, but the 02 500i manual AC would be the hot ticket here. Massive clearance, no shortage of power, and a manual transmission that won't be slipping no matter what.

Where do you get that AC's suck in the mud anyway?

 

I have a 2000 model Kodiak and my wife loves it. Next summer I will probably get the Grizzly and hand the Kodiak down to her. I know of two couples who have already done this. The Kodiak is very capable of anything you want to do with it when properly snorkeled and the right tires are on.

Go here to see mine. http://photos.yahoo.com/trygsy

 

These are some great pics. Are you getting those tires on your Grizz? Did you order ahead of time for the factory custom run? Does anyone know when the factory custom build cycle is for 2002 or even 2003?