[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-confused.gif[/img]I have to make my decision tonight, I put the dealer off another day becuase I can't make up my mind, I am 6'2' about 270 lbs. I have sat on both quads and the BB seems larger in size. I have never owned an auto tranny but think I would like it. Does the dual ranger tranny really make a big difference. I would to plow snow and leaves if this matters. of course $ is important also but will go the extra cah if its worth it. HELP Thanks

 

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For what it is worth, the Kodiak is 401 CCs and the Big Bear is only 386 CCs. I am nearly the same size as you and have an 2002 Kodiak. It seems to be plenty large enough for my needs. I had planned to get the Grizzley buy it would not load into my P/U truck with the topper I have on. The Kodiak will just barely. Sorry to say I have yet to be able to really put the Kodiak through it paces. Headed to Big Cypress Preserve in south Fla the early part of Jan. I will then be able to see how she really does. If I recall correctly the Big Bear is a few pounds heavier.
Gman2

 

I have had both although the big bear was an earlier model.I think you would like the auto tranny and yes the low range is very helpful for towing and plowing.The big bear is a very good machine but it leans to the side of utility and I think the kodiak leans to the sport side but it VERY capable of work.I think yamaha did a good job of blending them both in this unit.If you even think of fun riding I would go with the kodiak for several reasons,it's automatic,watercooled and handles I think as good as my wolverine.The big bear is less complicated and there is something to be said for that.I have an early kodiak and so far have not had the problems usually posted here.This was mainly the water pump which has been updated and there is now a shield on the rear brake disc but I am not sure how much this helps preserve the pad life.Several of my riding buddies have these and they have been bulletproof but I have to admit so was my dearly departed bear[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif[/img] If you have any more specific questions please post them and I hope this helps.
2000 kodiak
1998 wolverine
1988 big bear..now helping someone else drag out their deer

 

I've got an 01 Kodiak. VERY happy with it. I think the BB is full time 4WD. The push button 4WD of the Kodiak makes a HUGE differance. Thats one of the main reasons I chose the Kodiak. Lets you chose between the work and play mode a bit better.

Andy


Let us know what ya got...

 

The BB's are switchable between 2wd and 4wd now.