If the BB had the locking front diff it sounds like it would be everything I want in a 4x4. I am leaning toward the Grizz in the spring, but the belt and the price are still a bit scary. Friends have told me once I tried the belt drive I would love it and never go back, but then two other friends of mine have sold their belt drive bikes, one Kawi and the other a Yamaha, because of the belts. I just don't know. Did you decide chainman? If so which way ans why?

 

Wileys
I've deffected and am getting serious about buying a Suzuki. I stopped and rode the Eiger not expecting to be impressed but it's a nice machine. The Eiger is an air cooled 375 and is avialable in either 5-spd or auto. It's got great suspension, turns really tight, decent power, low and high range, selectable 2x4 or 4x4, pretty much everything it needs. They sell for around 5k.

I will probably buy a Vinson. The ride isn't quite as good as the Eiger but the power is great and it turns on a dime.

My decision is personal preferance more than anything. With the Yamahas I narrowed it down to the Kodiak but I like the feel of the Suzukis better. The sloped seat and high bars on the Kodiak seem like they would be uncomforable on a long ride.

I have the same reservations as you with the belt drive and at first I was leaning toward a 5-spd Eiger. After having spent some time on each I like the auto more and more and I've pretty much changed my mind to getting the auto. I'm a little worried to buy a first production year machine but hopefully Suzuki will stand behind it and I may get an extended warrenty too. I also plan on carrying a spare belt.