Help in picking out a 4 wheeler/ ATV

[Capp35]

Jeeps I know a lot about, 4 wheelers I know nothing.

Looking for an older one for our property. Around $3500 so that can give you a year range/size I can afford.
I am also wanting it to be fairly powerful to ride two people or pull a 300lb trailer (corn, etc.) ... so maybe a 600cc+??
With good maintenance records, good handling/ride and just plain ole fun on the trails.
Also what is considered high miles/hours that I should stay under?

Here is my criteria:
Fully independent suspension
Auto or auto shift
Hi, Lo, reverse speeds at least
EFI preferred, but would not be a deal breaker if carb is trouble free
Plenty of power and great handling ride
Proven trouble free maintenance

So which brand/model would you suggest with the above information and why?
Also what year was a major change in mechanics?

Lots of questions, Thanks!

[rjet]

I would look at that yamaha grizzly in the classifieds. I have one and they are beasts. The power steering is nice also when you get into that size of a machine.

[Capp35]

Thought of one other think I like...
liquid cooling

[SB09]

I would look at that yamaha grizzly in the classifieds. I have one and they are beasts. The power steering is nice also when you get into that size of a machine.

By your description, this is no doubt what I would be looking into. Not only are they plenty powerful. They are also durable. Just be aware if you let kids, heck even inexperienced adults, ride them. I've had a couple of times where a Grizzly taught me a lesson. Luckily none were life changing.

[SB09]

Thought of one other think I like...
liquid cooling

Majority of the big bore ATVs, which is what it's sounding like you want to look for, will be liquid cooled.

[Bowtech32]

If you want trouble free go with Yamaha or Honda. I have a 2001 Grizzly and have not done anything except change the oil, change out a couple of battierys and put gas into it. I bought it new in 2001...

[tigerscowboy]

HONDA. All that needs to be said. There is no debate.

[ckamp52]

what he said^^ you dont need a big motor etc to do what you described find a honda rancher or old honda fourtrax you cant tear them up..i have a fourtrax i would sell but its only 2 wheel drive

[Dustinb09]

http://discussions.texasbowhunter.com/forums/showthread.php?t=569508

seems like a good deal.

[BURTONboy]

I would get a Polaris. I have a '98 Polaris 500 and that thing is tough as nails. Put it in lo and not much will stop it.

[CWendling]

Well Ill disagree. I have 2 Kawis, a 98 400 and a 02 650. Neither have ever given me a bit of trouble and that 650 is a beast pulling stuff

[jkranchrstexas]

I have a 2013 Honda Rancher 420 and it does everything you described. It can be manual shift or auto. Has 4x4 and independent suspension. Plenty of power, pulled trailer full of corn up a pretty good mountain in Uvalde with no problems with two grown men on it. From past experience, stay away from Polaris. Hope this helps!

[chancito1]

I've had 3 Polaris from 500 to 700cc and 3 grizzlies I would go with the Yamaha for overall dependability but Polaris is good bike too

[SB09]

Help in picking out a 4 wheeler/ ATV

Honda would be second choice. Only because they typically cost a lot used. But, there's a direct reason for that. From what I've seen Yamaha is very durable and doesn't cost quite as much to buy used.

[brutus]

Suzuki Eilger 400 I have an 02 that is very dependable. Not had to do anything to it. Mine is 2 wheel drive and have never been close to being stuck. But when my kids are around and both are adults I have to remind them it is a tool not a toy.