Pages: 1
Posted by: WhoDatInDaMud
Any name brand atv - well maintained and undamaged - holds considerable value. My daughters Honda is still like new and on our 2nd season and would recover 80% or better of its original cost. Her previous Polaris 90 sportsman sold after 3 years for 70% of original cost.
Honda, Polaris, Cat etc etc. The china cheap quads do not hold value as well because parts are not as readily available - IMO.
Posted by: WhoDatInDaMud
I guess because there seems to be a Honda, Polaris, Arctic Cat, Yamaha or other mainstream dealer never more then 30 minutes from any given location (around here) - That kind of parts availability is what I was referring to. So far - every Polaris 90 part I've needed has been in stock at the local hardware/Polaris store. That store also brought in some lower cost Eton kid quads and had a difficult time selling them - noting that customers would be discouraged with not having replacement/spare parts in stock. It seems most were willing to pay more for the "brand name" quads with replacement parts on the shelves.
We needed most of the front end plastic replaced by day 3 - the tree in the back yard must have moved quickly.
Your mileage may vary.
Posted by: WhoDatInDaMud
Engine parts have not been the demand items. The plastic body and front suspension items were told to be the most frequent replacement parts needed. Hitting things with the quad was the reason.
I don't know much about parts interchangeability - what parts from which manufactures are interchangeable? Does this include drive train - chassis, brake parts etc? Controls etc?
Posted by: WhoDatInDaMud
Only her allowance balance was seriously impacted. The agreement was that I would pay for half the parts if it was damaged. Thats the last time anything was broken like that.
Those mirrors are a great accessory for anyone trail riding with others. I have them on my Polaris but the Arctic Cats don't have a hollow handlebar to plug into. Havn't found a clamp on that I like yet.
Weve always kept an adult out front of the 12 year old while I kept watch from last place - but now shes going on 15 and can lead just fine with her Recon. At first having someone to follow made for good examples to learn from - and kept her out of the deeper mud.
Posted by: WhoDatInDaMud
"Most dealers do not stock plastics and front suspensions items." - They do around here. Being a little less myopic eludes some.
"I can't understand why anybody would replace the front suspension with more stock parts anyway? " Frankly, they aren't very good (or safe imo). - In your opinion - based on what? If someone wipes out a A arm and shock they should what? Build a highperformance race machine - on that side of the quad?
the same block and drive train can be found on a lot of mini's. - which ones I asked ? Or are we quessing? I havnt' seen anything even close. I'm not the person proclaiming expertise either.
"The Polaris Scrambler has a couple of clones floating around (chassis and engine)." - clones? which ones? Do you know or are you guessing again?
"Haven't gotten a good look at a Predator to say if it's still the same under all those plastics." -
So you don't know.
Posted by: terd
Quote
Honda, Polaris, Cat etc etc. The china cheap quads do not hold value as well because parts are not as readily available - IMO.
That's not really true....Parts will not be an issue there are alot of dealers on these forums that can get you just about everything you will need and with the so called off brands alot of parts will interchangable from other makes. The so called off brands hold there value well. Hell, I paid $1,500.00(a steal) for our Predator 90 via an out of state deal off of ebay. Right now in my area I could sell it for $1,700-$1,900, that's what they are going for used around here. I can't imagine Polaris being an off brand considering they have been in business for a while selling everything from snow sleds, atv's etc.
If you spend 1,900 for a kasea or an eton and go to resell it for about 1,500-1,700 that is not a big loss. For quality and reliabilty the so called "Off brands" are the way to go...IMO.
Eton's
Kasea
Polaris and the other 2 strokes are Damn Good quads. Do dome research and you will see for yourself.
Take your kid and put him/her on it to size it properly. Then get every last piece of safety gear imaginable and supervise the kid with the eyes of a hawk and a bull horn.
Goodluck
Posted by: terd
Quote
Personally, I would stick with the big 3 only: Honda, Suzuki, and Yamaha, in that order.
IMO..I think to top 3 are over priced for what you get. The off brand quads offer up alot more featuers than the big 3. Do some research, side by side comparision's and go from there.
Goodluck it can be a very hard choice to make with so many models out there.
Posted by: terd
Who dat:
Alphasports is a clone to the Polaris Predator both are made by AEON. There are alot of interchangable parts w/the so called b of brands. Extreme is compatible w/polaris also.
I have a friend of ours who has the Kazuma, now we haven't gotten into any internals yet...but everything looks to be out of the Honda(engine). The body I beleive can be changed out w/the LT80...but like I said we have not had to go in there yet, so that is still up for debate.
Posted by: bsb64
Draggin it may be a bit of a ride, but look into Tower City. Near Harrisburg PA. Pay once for a yearlong family membership, get a campsite, and ride all you want. No state laws or guidlines apply. Only rules are no speeding in the campground and you must wear a helmet.Plus its a family oriented place check it out.
http://www.towercitytrailriders.org/index.htm
Posted by: Bing
it may be wise to buy him a used Yamaha Blaster at his age.
something he can grow into
Posted by: Bing
Quote
Originally posted by: reconranger
Honda 90 if they are small. Suzuki LT160 for an in between machine. Honda 250EX/Recon if they are big for their age, or a Blaster if they can handle a full manual clutch. You will have to get a used one at your price range.
Avoid all the brands you mentioned!
that is better advice than I gave you......i was in a hurry
Basicly, you dont want to go too small,,,but not too big either (scare the poor kid)
Reconrangers advice is just about perfect,,,,all of those quads are easy maintenance and hold their value. (and all can be found used fairly easily)
Posted by: reconranger
Honda 90 if they are small. Suzuki LT160 for an in between machine. Honda 250EX/Recon if they are big for their age, or a Blaster if they can handle a full manual clutch. You will have to get a used one at your price range.
Avoid all the brands you mentioned!
Posted by: reconranger
Raptorlegs-Since when? I have not owned a 160 in a lot of years, but I am sure there wasn't even a "Hyosung" back then. It is possible that the new ones could be made by someone else??? Tell us how you know for sure??? In any case, if you check Suzuki's web site, the 160 isn't even in the 05 lineup. (Maybe they had some quality control issues???)
Personally, I would stick with the big 3 only: Honda, Suzuki, and Yamaha, in that order.
Posted by: reconranger
My objection to the brands nickal mentioned is primarily due to the fact that they are newcomers to the field, and in that sense they are of unknown quality. Which makes more sense, a Honda 90 that has an engine that has proven to be reliable and durable for over 50 years, or something new and unknown?
And, that is ignoring the fact that these originate from nations which don't necessarily hold themselves to the same manufacturing standards as Japan or the West! If one is on a budget, it makes more sense to me to choose a used machine of proven reliability and design.
Raptorlegs-I didn't really mean to skip Kawi. It is just that the only Kawi I would own is really a Suzuki Z400. And, if the LT-160 is made in Korea, that is fine with me as long as Suzuki controls the quality.
Posted by: Dragginbutt
I would say the best ATV is the one that the kid likes and will ride. At that age, color and looks are going to be paramount to their way of thinking. They are not going to care if parts are not available etc. Let them in on the decision process... There is nothing worse than spending $2000 hard earned dollars only to find out that 1) the kid doesn't like it, or 2) he can't ride it because his age does not fall within the manufacturers guidelines.
After spending almost 6 weeks trying to plan a vacation where my 9 year old can ride his Raptor 80 without being hassled or placed at risk of getting a huge fine.. I am about ready to give up and resigned myself to getting him a 50 and putting the 80 in mothballs. I am worn out.
Posted by: Dragginbutt
The issue hasn't been with his ability to ride it so much, it is more a case of where he can ride it that is causing us fits. When we bought it, I had a choice between a Bombardier 50 and a Raptor 80. Because of his larger than life size and weight, I opted for the Yamaha as it fit him better. They are a little larger and longer than the other minis. A few months later, Yamaha comes out with their 50 which uses the same chassis...
Since the purchase, I have also fallen victim to changing laws regarding compliance with manufacturers guidelines. It seems that Virginia where I live, Maryland , PA and West Virginia (Where Hatfield/McCoy is and the reason we bought them in the first place) have all made it mandatory that he can now only ride in public areas when in compliance with the age guidelines. I also tried to take a trip this year... and found another hiccup to the mix. Because Virginia does not register ATV's, other states want you to register them with their system. And in the case of Wisconsin, they also want me to pay sales tax. As a NON RESIDENT. Sorry guys, but I paid that in Virginia, I am not going to do that again for a couple of days. DItto for several western states as well. And PA... But at least it only costs $15 in PA, so it looks like they will get my money.
I can't even ride on a large parcel of land I purchased in WI last Dec until they get their registration sticker. Which sucks.
The last strike was triyng to get him into the free safety course offered by the manufacturers... he was denied because according to the guidelines, he has to either ride a 50 or be 12 to ride his 80... and in MD, where the nearest course is held, riders under 12 are prohibited altogether.
So I am giving up... just ordered me a new fishing boat... and I'll take him fishing until he turns 12. Even though the wife says to go down and buy the raptor 50 and be done with it. He will just have to be content to putt around in the back yard, and I do not think he will need to shift gears out back... He just keeps it in first or second.
Posted by: Dragginbutt
Well I can't say for sure, so I won't dispute your statement above, but I know that at least some of the models are being assembled here in the states. Probably why htey cost so much these days...but hey, I'd rather that then let our dollars go overseas... at least an American worker at least touched mine. Not usre if he built the whole thing, but they got their piece of the action...
Posted by: Dragginbutt
Yeah I kind of figured that. I don't think it will be much different than his 80 in first gear will do....the chassis is the same, although the tires are a little smaller...at least he will not have that much of a transition to the 80 when he gets old enough to ride it. Problem is, he will probably be pushing 6 ft tall when he is 12.
I am committed to either a Yamaha or Honda product. I know a lot of people swear by other brands, but they can save their breath... I have a history with the two I like, so I am not about to change now. I figure that no matter what, he will be riding the 80 most of the time anyway, I just hate spending the 2 grand so he can take the course. I was able to borrow one from a friend for a day, but because the serial numbers on that machine didn't match the ones they have in their data banks for his 80, he got tossed there too.
What are you gonna do? It isn't for the lack of trying, that is for sure. I figure I'll keep the 50 and let my grand kids ride it when they get old enough to putt around in grandpa's back yard....at least I'll get a little use out of it. Maybe let the instructors use it if they come accross a kid in the same dillema as mine is right now.
To say that this whole deal has really spoiled his enthusiasm for the sport would be an understatement. He gets his fishing pole tonight when we celebrate his birthday with friends. The boat should be here in a couple of weeks...
Posted by: Dragginbutt
Spike, look at the kill switchs used on the personal watercrafts out there.... works like a champ on the kid's raptor 80
Posted by: Dragginbutt
Speaking of Korean products... somebody mentioned they thought they were like the Japanese market was 20 or 30 years ago... I think that may have some truth to it... as many of us old goats can remember the time when cheap imports really soured a lot of us. I have to say that they are doing a lot better job now days when they bring something to the American market.. but things are not all OK yet.
I remember how tinny the Toyota or Datsun's were when they were first brought to our shores... now days, they represent the top of the line in some cases. Still, when talking about motorcycles and quads, You have to wonder... I was in Miami this past weekend visiting my daughter, and went into a pep boys to get my oil changed in my truck. While there, I see these quads and mini bikes for sale... in many cases, for less than half than the big boys.
Now I know it causes me to wonder how they can sell a quad for under a thousand dollars, when Yamaha changes 2 grand for their 50 cc model... The answer is that they do not offer service, or parts for them... which goes back to an earlier argument over the after the sale service that you can expect.
I think in many cases, it is a case of perception and expectations. If you feel comfortable with the fact that you may have to work a little harder to keep it running... so be it. Go for it
I believe that most "Older and wiser" folks of my generation would still opt for the Yamaha or Honda, Suzuki, Kawasaki, arctic Cat, Polaris etc.. for no other reason than I know that no matter where I go, I will still be able to get parts for it. And with the advent of the Internet, just do a Yahoo search on "Yamaha parts" and you will find literally hundreds of sources... so I guess just for the peace of mind, I'd still lean towards the big boys. With teh online sales, you will have an easier source of finding parts for the cheap stuff...so that may not be as big of a deal if you are able to wait a few days for the stuff to come in.
Perceptions are like respect... you have to earn it... and right now, I can't say the cheap imports have done that in my not so humble opinion. Only time will tell. If they can provide a quality product that earns the same tank like reputation as my kid's Raptor 80, and still maintain a price point well below the big boys, they will without a doubt turn some heads... but history needs to be established... and right now, only a handful of people out there are acting as guinea pigs... I wish them well... maybe it will drive prices down a bit...
I do not wish to get into a my quad is better than your quad argument.. as we all tend to defend our purchase decisions to the death. I wish you all luck with what ever brand you put under your butts... the only really important thing is that you get out there and ride
Posted by: Dragginbutt
Exactly, and if you are comfortable with that.. go for it. My point was regarding people's perceptions and earning respect over the long term. I suspect they will in time make a big splash in the market. I hope the competition is able to drive price points lower from the big guys. But changing our perceptions will take a lottle more time. I guess the long term will change a lot of minds if they turn out to be tank like in their reliability.
Like I said, I was very shocked to see the pricing on them last weekend. They were selling those little pocket racers for under $500.. I couldn't believe my eyes.
Posted by: Dragginbutt
You can't always fault the dealers.. you know, it costs a lot of money to have parts sitting on the shelves.. so many can only stock those items that they know will turn over in a given period of time. You can't see it when you order accross the web, but in many cases, the people you are buying from will never even touch the parts. Their website only refers the order to the major parts house and they in turn mail the part out to you. You end up with the impression that there are a lot of sources, but in fact, they all come out of the same place. The only difference in price then becomes an issue of how small a margin the so called mail order house is willing to accept. Volume sites, just like volume dealers receive bigger discounts form the mega warehouses... and they can choose to pass it on or not, depending on their whim that day.
I on the other hand get a discount from my local dealer on everything. 10% minimum discount on every item I purchase... but it is because I have spent nearly 60 grand at his place
Posted by: Raptorlegs
Quote
Originally posted by: WhoDatInDaMud
The china cheap quads do not hold value as well because parts are not as readily available - IMO.
Some have parts available. Some don't. Eton and Kasea/LRX have a ton of aftermarket parts. So do some of the others if you know what to look for. When you compare features, these "cheap China" quads have a lot to offer. If you don't mind giving up some dealer support, you really can save money.
I paid half what I would have for a Polaris.
miniatvs.com sells quads and parts. Check it out.
Posted by: Raptorlegs
Quote
Originally posted by: reconranger
Honda 90 if you are small. Suzuki LT160 for an in between machine. Honda 250EX/Recon if you are big for your age or a Blaster if you can handle a full manual clutch. You will have to get a used one at your price range.
Avoid all the brands you mentioned!
Isn't the lt160 made by Hyosung? Tain't no Jap quad. That's Korean! Can't be recommending that! BR>
I think I got a steal on my cheap-ars quad. Do the deal again in a heart beat.
But, I would look at a 150cc+ machine unless you plan on your kid racing. And, I'd recommend biting the bullet and buying two machines to ride together. Great bonding experience.
If you do opt for a mini-quad, plan on slapping some aftermarket parts on it. They are pretty gutless in stock form for a larger kid. Sky's the limit for those 2-strokes. You can make them run.
Posted by: Raptorlegs
lt160
Quality issues huh? They onlly carried it for how long? They produced the old lt's too.
Well, the link didn't work like I wanted but you can go to off-road products. Let me know if you still doubt.
Posted by: Raptorlegs
I always thought is was the big 4 including Kawasaki? With Polaris nipping at their heels?
Posted by: Raptorlegs
Did I mention mine has Yamaha stamped on the side?
Reconranger, the quads that have parts available have a high rate of satisfaction. Are they perfect? No. But neither are the big 4. The risk you take is that you might have to do some work on it yourself instead of taking it in to the local dealer. If you are not mechanically inclined, then I would buy local.
I didn't previously push my brand because it is relatively unknown. But Eton and Kasea have already established themselves. They are a real force in the mini market.
Posted by: Raptorlegs
Depending on if they enforce it, you could always ride unregistered. Never read anything so strict as WI atv law. Wow!
http://www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/es/enforcement/DOCS/ATVregs03.pdf
ps- Never bothered registering here because it's only applicable to public land.
Posted by: Raptorlegs
I think it's funny that the DS650 appears to be exempt! BR>
48.5 inches wide!
Posted by: Raptorlegs
Yeah, when the engine parts are interchangeable! LOL!
Posted by: Raptorlegs
Quote
Originally posted by: WhoDatInDaMud
Engine parts have not been the demand items. The plastic body and front suspension items were told to be the most frequent replacement parts needed. Hitting things with the quad was the reason.
I don't know much about parts interchangeability - what parts from which manufactures are interchangeable? Does this include drive train - chassis, brake parts etc? Controls etc?
Most dealers do not stock plastics and front suspensions items. I can't understand why anybody would replace the front suspension with more stock parts anyway? Frankly, they aren't very good (or safe imo). Guess they don't know any better.
I believe the same block and drive train can be found on a lot of mini's. The Polaris Scrambler has a couple of clones floating around (chassis and engine). Haven't gotten a good look at a Predator to say if it's still the same under all those plastics.
Do your own homework WhoDat. You wouldn't believe me anyway.
Spike, I started my kid out leading because my mini came with a rear tether kill switch which I attached a retractable dog leash to. Worked great.
Posted by: Raptorlegs
Quote
Originally posted by: WhoDatInDaMud
"Most dealers do not stock plastics and front suspensions items." - They do around here. Being a little less myopic eludes some.
"I can't understand why anybody would replace the front suspension with more stock parts anyway? " Frankly, they aren't very good (or safe imo). - In your opinion - based on what? If someone wipes out a A arm and shock they should what? Build a highperformance race machine - on that side of the quad?
the same block and drive train can be found on a lot of mini's. - which ones I asked ? Or are we quessing? I havnt' seen anything even close. I'm not the person proclaiming expertise either.
"The Polaris Scrambler has a couple of clones floating around (chassis and engine)." - clones? which ones? Do you know or are you guessing again?
"Haven't gotten a good look at a Predator to say if it's still the same under all those plastics." -
So you don't know.
LOL! Where were you when the guy called me on the Suzuki being Korean?
- You're lucky to get an oil filter at most dealers I've been to, but hey, I've only been in 20 or so shops. Not an expert. But I do know it takes a heck of lot of equity to stock plastics, shocks and a-arms (and every other part) for every model sold, name brand or not. You must have the biggest and richest dealer in the entire world, WhoDat!
- You mean upgrade to a front suspension that actually works? YES! Unless you're happy with that 2-inches of travel. Not to mention the extra width will make it more stable. Thought you were a safety guy, WhoDat?
- I'm not sure if the predator has the same chassis as the old scrambler. I'd bet it does or that they are pretty close. Both those engines are built in the same factory in China as a few lesser known quad's. Break your heart, WhoDat? And yes many parts are interchangeable between many different makes.
It's out there if you look hard enough. Have at it.
Posted by: Raptorlegs
Spike, contact Billy at WRH.
Posted by: Raptorlegs
Quote
Originally posted by: Dragginbutt
Now I know it causes me to wonder how they can sell a quad for under a thousand dollars, when Yamaha changes 2 grand for their 50 cc model... The answer is that they do not offer service, or parts for them... which goes back to an earlier argument over the after the sale service that you can expect.
I think in many cases, it is a case of perception and expectations. If you feel comfortable with the fact that you may have to work a little harder to keep it running... so be it. Go for it
I've seen off brands at the big-4 dealers. They are going to offer less service for those quads than the others they sell? Not to mention there are 10-15 motorcycle and small engine repair shops in this small town that would love to do work on mine. What you really give up (when you mail order) is warranty work.
Also, many brands have parts readily available from multiple sources, so saying none of them offer parts is not necessarily true either. And maybe it's just me, but I find it easier to get online and order parts than to mess with the local dealer. Not to mention it's a whole lot cheaper.
Let's compare dollar to dollar too. I paid $1180 for my quad. That would have bought me a 5-10 year old Suzuki 80 with a fraction of the safety items. Mine has full running boards, headlight, brakelight and 2 tether kill switches. And, which do you think I would have worked harder on to keep running?
Posted by: spike99
nickal,
I'm just wondering... With all the "1st quad recommendations" in this post and a few other posts, I'm wondering what top 3 brands you've picked so far? To help us provide the better brand and "feature" recommendations for your son, can you tell us more about your current riding conditions and future usage. For example, Sand dunes only, forest only, deep water riding, etc. Trail riding only and/or possible racing in the future. If wondering, certain brands are made better for certain riding conditions. For example, the stcok Pred-90 is much better for extreme dry trails and the E-ton's thicker chain makes it better for sand dunes.
Also, can you tell us if your trails are patrolled by authorities or will your son be limited to back yard / private property only. If wondering, this is critical to recommend the appropriate CC engine size for the age of your son.
.
Posted by: spike99
Quote
Originally posted by: WhoDatInDaMud...... the tree in the back yard must have moved quickly....
Your line made me reflect back. My son ran into a tree as well. Actually, it was kinda funny in the way it happened. For us, we do lots of forest trail riding. My son leads (thankfully he has the maturity to lead) and I follow. One day last fall while double riding my disabled son, my middle son drove his Pred-90 around a deep forest corner. At the same time, my disabled son's boot came off. I immediately stopped, put his boot back on and continued around the corner. Like always, my son on his Pred-90 drives approx 30-40 feet around the corner and waits for me to catch up. This time, he looked around his shoulder and didn't see me. He continued to "put put" along at 2 mph. He kept looking and looking, waiting for me to catch up. I came around the corner and immediately seen he was 6" from a small tree. As he was looking behind his shoulder, his arms turned slightly sideways and he didn't even notice. Small bump off the tree - just like a bumper car at the fair. As I seen the expression on his face, I kept laughing and laughing. As I manually pushed his unit away from the tree (so he could turn around it), I kept laughing and laughing. He looked at me and said, "Dad, it wasn't that funny!!!" The next day, his Pred-90 went into my shop and I install a side mirror on it. Today, he now watches me from his side mirror. No more mandatory turning his head (and repeating the same type of accident) while he waits for me to turn the corners behind him. A driving mirror is little machine improvement "lesson learned" you may want to share with your future students. This $20.00 upgrade was well worth it for our unique riding conditions.
Hopefully, your young driver didn't hurt themselves from your moving tree.
.
Posted by: spike99
I would agree. Most inexperienced "young kids" should NEVER lead. It all depends on the kid. In my previous days, I would lead 100% of the time and my son would follow. As a watched him from my mirrors, I noticed he was riding very sloppy. Like he was struggling. I watched my speed and noticed we did 5 to 15 mph. Most of the time, we were doing 10-15 mph in the clear paths. Knowing how sloppy my son was driving, I told him to lead and I would follow him. I wanted to watch him from behind - to monitor his body posture much better. To my surprise, his body posture and comfort control was near perfect. Then, I noticed he was doing 5 - 10 mph range. Then it hit me... My "little faster" speed while leading made him over drive his experience level. I was unknowingly pulling him faster. For our known trails, my son leads in order to "set our pace". In unknown trails, I lead and SLOW DOWN. There's a 9 year old kid on our trails who I'd NEVER allow them to lead. Even putting them between 2 adult drivers is an accident waiting to happen. It all depends on the kid's maturity, experience level and their natural leadership skills.
.
Posted by: spike99
For the mirror on our Pred-90, I went to my local Honda dealer and purchased a universal fit mirror post. It's gloss black and fits on minis. For the mirror, I purchased an inexpenisive "rectangle" black mirror, made of plastic and a steel rod. Post was $6.95 and mirror was $12.00. For something that could snap off during an accidental roll over or hitting a large tree branch, we don't look for cosmetic perfection. Is it functional? is my main focus. For us, this $20.00 upgrade works great. I'd highly recommend ALL trail quads have mirrors. Having glass, I wouldn't recommend them for the race track. Good thing most mirrors can be quickly unscrewed / removed.
.
Posted by: spike99
My kid started in our backyard. He rode on our flat ground for almost 5 weeks. The cones, the 4x4 logs, the "over and over" again routines often drove him nuts. Some days, it drove me nuts as well. He was only allowed out of our small fenced yard if he could consistantly lock up all 4 tires, comfortably perform cornering / leaning, etc. When we did "hit our trails", I restricted him to smooth sand dune and flat fields. Again, "over and over" leaning, stoping at each T-intersection, yeilding while merging onto "Y" trails, etc. Luckily we immediately enforced a good "phase training approach" in our family.
I do know one family who bought their 14 year old a 250 2-stroke Sports quad and said, "go have fun on your own". No training and no common sence behavior was taught. Approx 2 weeks later, he was riding "alone" in our sand dunes and drove head-on onto another rider. Ambulance & all. Today, our sand dunes are now closed. All because that 14 year old parents didn't slowly introduce him to "safe & common sence" riding behavior. And yes, the parents of this kid sued and got thousands of dollars. Go figure???
Thanks for your idea of installing a teather switch and dog leash on the back of our mini. Should cost me under $30.00 (or so) for this upgrade. When the time comes to teach my daughter how to drive our mini, this "rear mounted" teather switch & pull cord is a great idea. I'm sure if other parents installed a rear teather switch (and possibled wired into their front teather switch wiring) and dog leash on their new mini, it would be great for them as well. Thanks for the idea....
.
Posted by: spike99
Quote
Originally posted by: Dragginbutt
Spike, look at the kill switchs used on the personal watercrafts out there.... works like a champ on the kid's raptor 80
Thanks for the heads-up on Water Craft kill switch / teather strap "clone" advice. Could be less expensive then purchasing the same kill switch / teather strap that's located on our Pred-90's mini dash.
Talk about "possible" CLONE interchangeable parts.... We currently have NO Spark on our Pred-90. Like many Pred-50/90s what run in constant deep water & mud, I suspect our unit's Stator Coil is gone. A curse that's starting to happen to many Pred's. Anyway, do you know if the Stator Coil system from a different "clone" mini will fit on our 2003 Pred-90? If possible, I'd like to replace our factory coil with something better - assuming the Stator is the problem. Thanks for your "clone part" feedback.
.
Posted by: confusedbuyer
I didn't like pull-start only on the Honda and found it took on water easier than the LT80, or Raptor 80, so we had to drain carb to get it going. At 11 y/o maybe pull start isn't a big deal. There is a good post here by a guy who sounds like he's really put his Yamoto 110 through some abuse and it's holding up well. You can get one for around $1400, NEW.
Etons are very well-reviewed by their owners. I'd get something like a 90 if he's never ridden, and bigger if he has ridden, but I think a blaster is too big. Reverse would be nice and very few 90's have that. The off-shores make 110s, 150s. Yamaha makes a 125 and Suzuki makes a 160. Otherwise, there's not much in the mid-range sizes. I'd look at those. A fairly new, but used Yam. Breeeze (125)would be in your price range.
The Koreans were making the LT50 for Suzuki in 1984. It wouldn't surprise me to discover they've made the 160 for them aswell.
Posted by: confusedbuyer
aren't the Kawi and Suzuki the same thing, and both made in Korea? many of the Yamaha parts are alleged to be made in China, which is why they're carbon-copying the shaft drive design and Raptor styling. And Polaris' kid's quad is made off-shore too, according to many reports. Ditto for Arctic Cat.
nickel, have we given you info overload and confused you enough yet?that's how i entered this chat room and came up with my name... "confused buyer". I'd say everyone's posted pretty positive stuff about THEIR experiences with their brands,so whatever you decide you like for the combination of features, looks, size, etc..
Personally, I like 4-stroke shaft drive for super-low maintenance and longevity. Others like the CVT automatics for easier riding and no gears. Some like 2-stroke for performance/racing. TYPE of riding also may be a factor. Lots of puddles /creek, some have posted to say the CVTs don't handle water well, including water in the crankcase+belt slippage, so that may factor into your decision.
So... you need to figure out which of those things are important to you to help narrow it down. Then you may want to see what's your best VALUE for the $$. i.e., re-sale down the road, or features/dependability for the $$.
Because most brands seem to have received good feedback from their owners, I'd be more concerned with not buying one of the brands that is routinely trashed like Kazuma and Meercat. If you find something you've never heard of, post here, cuz most of these folks can give you some honest feedback.
Posted by: confusedbuyer
I think the Koreans are where the Japanese were 20-30 years ago. Actually well made, but no respect. Samsung is a huge Korean co., that makes everything, so is Hyundai, LG, and their products are respectable.
Posted by: confusedbuyer
hey draggin, got an idea for ya. we test drove an MFC 90, clone of the Raptor 80. I don't know if this is your son's problem, but my kids struggled with pulling the shift lever up with their toe on the Raptor. Kids will find any little reason to whine and then work themselves into a frenzy that they don't like it. The MFC has a "Harley davidson" style shifter. You can kick DOWN on the rear of the lever to upshift, and kick the front to shift down. No trying to pull up. It's great. I'm gonna see if they will fit on the 80. Are you interested?
Posted by: confusedbuyer
Draggin', NO WONDER you get so passionate in these forums about taking the sport away and all the regulation. what you described is classic gov't cluster*uck. what a joke. here I am living in a country that is considered way more socialist and regulated than the US, and what you described makes me sick. we're no where near that, but i guess it's a good indicator of what we can expect in the next 10-20 years. I'm speechless at the stupidity of it all. trying to collect taxes in each state???? all the restricted areas? I'm with you, find a new hobby if he's not even allowed to ride.
Oh BTW, the Raptor 50 gets horrible feedback from the owners for being a gas powered atv that doesn't go as fast as a kids electric toy. I was looking at them too, but I would seriously consider something else (and I like Yamaha products, but this one sounds bad).
Posted by: confusedbuyer
they've added a whole new meaning to cheesehead in Wisconsin. even a used Quadzinger from Yamaha would run well and not cost so much. what a shame adults have to ruin fun for kids. watch the original Bad News Bears movie again. I forgot how they portrayed the stupid parents.
Posted by: confusedbuyer
are we arguing or agreeing? I said they are "actually well made"....and "their products are respectable". Do you remember Toyota, Datsun and Honda in the 70's? Rodney Dangerfield shoulda been their spokesperson. "No respect". Yet they were well made engines (the bodies rusted to nothing). I'm mostly with ya on the quality of all those products,although I'm not sure I'd agree they'll last forever. Kia needs to get some history behind it first. Hyundai's first cars were junk... the Stellar, Pony, but they've learned and turn out some good stuff. I know a guy with the sporty one, Simaron??, and it's a nice car.
I still think there are a lot of people that give them no respect, but obviously I'm not one of them from the comments i made.
Posted by: confusedbuyer
no problem, we agree I take it. But it's okay to disagree too, makes for some lively and entertaining discussion on some of these forums.
It was a Hyundai Tiburon (Simaron?? what was I thinking). I remember buying another Korean electronics brand several years, MEI. It really was garbage. That's the fear i think of the Chinese stuff now. They could make 80%-90% of quality stuff, but people only think about the 10-20% that's poor and trash all of it as garbage which isn't fair to the rest of it that's good.
Posted by: confusedbuyer
I think Raptorlegs is saying he'll spend way more time working on the used 'Zuki, than a NEW import. Don't kid yourself about manufacturing... it's a global economy and it's all about mass production at the cheapest price. I think a lot more of our Yamahas are manufactured in China and assembled wherever, than we'll ever realize.
The parts thing is a tough call since I've never owned a Chinese quad and tried to get parts for one (other than a brief encounter with 2 Kasea Mighty Mites, and they were renowned as garbage by all who came across their path). BUT, whenever i need Suzuki or Yamaha parts, the local dealer NEVER has anything, and it's always a day or two to get it in, unless it's back-ordered to Japan, or Eastern Canada. Sometimes my dealer gets lazy and guilty of not calling in an order every day if it's kinda slow, or waiting the next day after the shipment comes in to call, if they're too busy the day it arrives. 90% of the time, I get the part the same week. The later in the week, the more dilligent they are to ensure it's ordered that day and arrives before the weekend.
It just seems to me that's the way the Japanese distribution system works. One huge warehouse somewhere in the city carries the majority of stuff, none of the dealers carry ANYTHING other than plugs, chain, high use brake parts and maybe an air cleaner filter or two. The retailer orders today, the warehouse fills the order tomorrow, and it gets picked up late that or the next day. Same for Honda car I used to have. It's frustrating, cuz I find Ford or GM more often have what i need, or can get it by the end of the same day, while i still have the thing apart and am still covered in grease and dirt, and have the time to finish the job.
Posted by: Carmelo15
Quote
Originally posted by: confusedbuyer
I think the Koreans are where the Japanese were 20-30 years ago. Actually well made, but no respect. Samsung is a huge Korean co., that makes everything, so is Hyundai, LG, and their products are respectable.
no respect? are f*ckin kidding me?!?! LG, Samsung, Hyundai, Kia are all very well made, high quality, and will last forever. Did you know LG, sony and samsung are the 3 top electronics producers in the world? and Kia is the fastest growing car company in North America followed by Hyundai? I completely disagree with those who say korean made products are cheap. They are just as good if not better than american products.
Posted by: Carmelo15
I would recommend a used TRX250ex honda.
Posted by: Carmelo15
sorry confusedbuyer we got off on the wrong foot, i read your original post wrong
Posted by: Cheapass
Just FYI: The "Big 3" have been outsourcing their manufacturing to China and Tiawan for a decade... Maxfine models still say "Yamaha" on the engine casings.
To say teir manufacturing is not up to the Big 3's standards is laughable, they build the Big 3.
Posted by: Fishy
I would recomend a Yamaha Grizzly 125, Looks awsome just like a full sized griz.
Plus you can grow on it.
Posted by: nickal
My 11 year old wants his 1st quad, I noticed alot of off brand names out there....e-ton, yamoto, sundiro, etc. any advice? I have around two grand to spend. thanx:img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-confused.gif" border="0">
