I intend to purchase an ATV but I am finding it difficult to choose which make and model. I started out looking at the Wolverine, mainly for its suspension travel and lighter weight. The Honda Rancher seems to give a lot more for the money though, but seems more utility. If I go for the more utility of the Rancher, maybe the Foreman would be better. The truth is, I don't know how much sport I really need. I will be using it primarily for trail riding and I probably will not get to wild on it, but I do like to play. I plan to purchase a plow even though we get very little snow here, so I want a 4x4. I take good care of my "toys" and tend to keep them a long time, so I want one I will remain happy with. I have owned many Honda's over the years, '70 ATC 90, '71 Trail 70, '73 SL100, '83 XL600, (all purchased new), so I tend to lean toward the Honda's. (I still own the '71 Trail 70 and it still looks and runs like new). Any suggestions would be appreciated.

 

Get The Rancher ES! I have 2 and more than satisfied! If you can get a real good buy on the Foreman 450 ES like 5500.00, that would be a solid investment!!! I think more resale! Can't miss with a Honda!!!

 

Oldred~

As you described earlier, I would rule out the wolverine if you are planning to do some snowplowing b/c the wolv. doesn't as much bottom end as the Foreman or the Rancher, plus it is lighter.

I would suggest that you test ride the bikes. Pick out the bike you are most comfortable in and meets your most important criteria. Just my 2 cents here...

-E

 

Well I'll admit from the start I am REALLY partial to Yamaha's. But really the Wolverine is a very sporty 4X4 BUT! It is NO stranger to hard work! Me and my little brother both have Wolverines. And we enjoy LOTS of trail riding and we also do lots of farm type work. The machines have never fell short of ANY of our needs. When its play time they run like the devil. When its time to work they can pull and haul! Id recommend a Wolverine!

A satisfied customer! Thanks for your time! =- )

'99 Wolverine SuperTrapp pipe, UFO hand guards, nifty skid plate.
'00 Warrior (no mods) its brand new!

 

I plow quite a bit with the Wolv. and I have to say, It hasn't been stopped yet. Reverse is great, turning radius is great. Power is plenty.

Don't let the lack of low end fool ya. I agree it could be a bit better. A bit.

No complaints here. As a matter of fact, I once had to tow a truck in my dad's shop. Did it without a problem. Mind you, it was a tad heavy as the clutch was probably beyond it's limits but it moved a 5000lb truck. I was pleased.

Good luck.

 

I plow quite a bit with the Wolv. and I have to say, It hasn't been stopped yet. Reverse is great, turning radius is great. Power is plenty.

Don't let the lack of low end fool ya. I agree it could be a bit better. A bit.

No complaints here. As a matter of fact, I once had to tow a truck in my dad's shop. Did it without a problem. Mind you, it was a tad heavy as the clutch was probably beyond it's limits but it moved a 5000lb truck. I was pleased.

Good luck.

 

Your main intentions for this ATV is would be the better way to decide on what you want.
I own a Wolverine and have rode Honda 4x4s and either choice is a win - win situation.
If ground clearance, and occasional playing (jumps) is high on your list then the Wolverine may be your choice.
If Hill Climbing, and serious work are high on your list then the Honda may be for you.
They both are great, reliable, tough ATVs, but your riding preference should be the decision making point.

 

In the April issue, dirt wheels had a wolverine- rancher shoot out. Without getting into too much detail, the wolverine was the favorite in almost every area. Handling, suspension, almost everything. The rancher was said to have a smoother ride in the trails, but the wolverine is by no means a rough ride (unless you want it to be).

 

If your under 40 get the Wolverine