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Posted by: reconranger
The machine with a reputation as a work machine is the Honda Foreman 500. It has a time proven manual transmission. You can get it with ES push button shifting, if she doesn't want to foot shift. The Foreman isn't cush or plush, and it's power is all low end grunt, but you aren't out trail riding anyway.
Posted by: reconranger
Why is there always someone WHO LIVES IN MINNESOTA AND ALWAYS RECOMMENDS AN ARCTIC CAT, who pops up every time there is a "which quad to buy" question???
We had the same thing a few years back, and it turned out to be two POLARIS EMPLOYEES trying to drum up business for their firm, but I see you don't live in Thief River Falls.
Posted by: reconranger
Hey, just having a little fun with you guys, ok! But are you guys sure you aren't just ROOTING FOR THE HOME TEAM???? (Can't help noticing that v2rider if a Minnesotan too. I lived in Minnesota when I was a kid! I like California winters a little better.)
The Polaris story is however absolutely true! Once someone called them on it, these guys disapeared from the forum forever!
Posted by: reconranger
It is impossible not to note that the North American companies that also build snowmobiles (A Cat, Polaris, and Can-Am.......or whatever they are calling themselves this week), tend to build NEEDLESSLY HEAVY machines. The Japaneese companies have at least agreed to keep the weight down to a max of 600 pounds (still awfull heavy), so that is something for any buyer to take into consideration when selecting a machine!
Posted by: reconranger
hell-The Honda's anyway, are made in North Carolina or Ohio (???). Most of the others are produced here a well, so forget your lame idea about shipping weight!
Posted by: reconranger
I said I was just having fun with you........I thought that WAS an appology! Let's not be a bunch of little girls here, OK.........
My brand new 06 Honda was made in South Carolina. They may still have a plant in Ohio as well.
You can be pretty sure that 95% of the parts (even some engines.....the Predator for example) on your North American machine, were made in the Orient!
If one CHOOSES to ride a lard a$$ machine, then one DESERVES to ride a lard a$$ machine! Just so everyone knows what they are getting into, before they spend their hard earned money! It's buyer beware out there..........
Posted by: reconranger
I ride desert, and I think pegleg will be disappointed with a large/heavy machine once he gets out on the trail........especially when the trail turns really nasty and technical!
Around the yard, agility isn't an issue, so it shouldn't be a big deal.
Posted by: Scootergptx
Maybe the hondas weigh less (not counting sport models) because they haven't added anything new in a while.
Still no apology to C????
Posted by: Scootergptx
Quote
Originally posted by: motox26
Quote
Originally posted by: reconranger
hell-The Honda's anyway, are made in North Carolina or Ohio (???). Most of the others are produced here a well, so forget your lame idea about shipping weight!
That would be Ohio, only about an hour and a half from me.hr>
There goes their credibilty.
Posted by: Scooter86
Check out the Arctic Cat products. Durable and made to work, plus lots of utility add ons. They aren't the sportiest of quads, but they are capable pretty much everywhere.
Posted by: Scooter86
pegleg1az, what are the shortfalls of your Wolverine for your intended purposes? Are you planning to do anything with the new quad you are not doing already?
ppope, a blanket statement saying Honda's are great for work is kind of dangerous. Honda's flagship big bore, which is in the class of machine pegleg is asking about, is really aimed more at the sport/recreation side of the coin than utility. Many people say that Polaris is one of the better work utes, and an argument can definately be made for them, too. You don't feel the same way about your Sportsman?
Posted by: Scooter86
Right, the Foreman is a great work quad, but he is looking at a 660 Yamaha and a 700 Suzuki. If he walks into the Honda dealership, the Rincon is the only quad that matches up cc wise. What you wrote could be misleading to an extent. Just for the record, you don't happen to be the only one that tries to give facts and unbiased recommendations. I have never owned a Honda, Arctic Cat, or Polaris. For the record, I would take the 500 AC/manual over the Foreman if those were the only two choices
Posted by: Scooter86
Quote
Originally posted by: ppope
Seriously Cats are good in the mud. I ride mostly mud, so it would work for my style, but they don't stand out anywhere else.... Otherwise, why are they the last in number of sales?
Are you for real? That is a seriously biased statement right there against AC products.
Posted by: Scooter86
He needs some weight to help pull/push the add ons he wants to use though. There is a reason you see tractors with tire weights and such. I have ridden with plenty of utes, plenty of big bores, plenty of heavy Polaris and Cats too. Sure, they don't handle anywhere near as well as my sport quad. Funny thing is, the serious riders are still able to keep up a pretty darn good clip while on the trails. And that includes some of the quads with the dump beds on the back, which are among the heaviest. You wouldn't tow a 30' fifth wheel with a Ranger, it isn't the right tool for the job. In peglegs' case, he really will benefit from having a larger, heavier, and more powerful machine. Oh, and if he really wants to blaze some trails too, I think the KQ may be a good fit for him. Open class power, IRS, efi, and they are among the best handling big quads. It is to bad the AC dealer is so far from him, but I think he should take a trip out there or at least cruise the companies web site to get a feel for thier product. Also, the perfect model doesn't always make up for a crappy dealer. It helps to visit all the dealerships and feel them out, talk to some of thier customers, etc.
Posted by: motox26
Quote
Originally posted by: xFreebirdx
Quote
Originally posted by: hellyeh
I for one think a direct apology to Catterman is in order , anyone else ?
I agree 110%!
Me too, and maybe even a shoe shining is in order!
Posted by: motox26
Quote
Originally posted by: ppope
Seriously Cats are good in the mud. I ride mostly mud, so it would work for my style, but they don't stand out anywhere else.... Otherwise, why are they the last in number of sales?
Uhhh..uppp......apology first, then you may post!BR>
Seriously tho, the # in sales comment could be figured out by a 5th grader. Look at who they target, how many distributors they have, how long they have been in business, etc..
Posted by: motox26
Quote
Originally posted by: reconranger
hell-The Honda's anyway, are made in North Carolina or Ohio (???). Most of the others are produced here a well, so forget your lame idea about shipping weight!
That would be Ohio, only about an hour and a half from me.BR>
Posted by: motox26
Quote
Originally posted by: reconranger I like California winters a little better
Hope you enjoy all the Libs that come with it.img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif" border="0"> lol
Posted by: motox26
Just a little advice, don't listen to anything the dealers have to say. Most of them don't know jack about quads other than MSRP, and two, they will try and push out the door what isn't selling.
Posted by: Catterman
That is the exact market Arctic Cat aims for with there ATV's. The H1 would be perfect for you They even have there own 3 point attachments. There racks are second to none in regards to space and attachments that connect to them, and you get a 2" receiver hitch.
My wife rides it with no problems, it is easier to use and understand then my Honda fourtrax.
Good luck.
Posted by: Catterman
C better make an official statement! BR>
1) Try to find a post where I put down another ATV - that wasn't in humor.
2) I don't own stock in Arctic Cat and I don't profit from other people buying their products.
3) I own a Honda too. BR>
4) I spent the last 3 years in Alaska, where I bought my H1
5) I have about 2,500 posts, so of course it is going to look like I pop up everywhere with my opinion.
7) Math never was me best subject, But I always has done beter in that then speling and grammmer.
8) I ride with many different brands, and I am freinds with a lot of people on this site that haven't even sat on an Arctic Cat.
9) I give out the recomendation of an Arctic Cat H1 because I OWN one and have seat time on it and in IMO it fits perfectly for the job he is looking to do.
10) I want an apology.
Posted by: Catterman
Quote
Originally posted by: hellyeh
Quote
Originally posted by: reconranger
hell-The Honda's anyway, are made in North Carolina or Ohio (???). Most of the others are produced here a well, so forget your lame idea about shipping weight!
Well recon , i know what i read ! I came across that statement while doing research before i purchased my 02 Kawi 650 , it was in an article i was reading at the time . I was surprised to learn that as well . If it was THAT important to me to prove you wrong , i would waste the time to find the information to do so , but since it's not , i'll just let this one slide .
Actually, they are made overseas, and assembled in Ohio. Isn't that how it goes?
Posted by: Catterman
Quote
Originally posted by: Scootergptx
Maybe the hondas weigh less (not counting sport models) because they haven't added anything new in a while.
Still no apology to C????
Yah, I am waiting!
Posted by: Catterman
Quote
Originally posted by: reconranger
I said I was just having fun with you........I thought that WAS an appology!
Apology accepted!
Posted by: Catterman
Quote
Originally posted by: reconranger
If one CHOOSES to ride a lard a$$ machine, then one DESERVES to ride a lard a$$ machine! Just so everyone knows what they are getting into, before they spend their hard earned money! It's buyer beware out there..........
Exactly, that is why people need to test ride each machine before they buy one. To me, I love my "lard a$$" H1 as the weight comes in handy for plowing snow, hunting, and towing. I don't think I have ever gone over 45 on it. However, it would be horrible for hellyah and his style & type of riding that he enjoys.
Posted by: hellyeh
Guys , Catterman happens to do research on things before he makes a big purchase like that too , as he is a little frugal .(not that that's a bad thing ) He happens to use his for work purposes on a regular basis , as well as for enjoyment , and feels as though that machine covers his needs quite handily . There is nothing wrong with him making suggestions based on his happiness with his purchase . Before you two clowns start throwing accusations around , you may want to do a little research on the man . I for one think a direct apology to Catterman is in order , anyone else ?
Posted by: hellyeh
A shoe shining , or at least polish the new diamond plate he just put on .
Posted by: hellyeh
Quote
Originally posted by: ppope
Cats are good in the mud. The end.... Otherwise, why are they the last in number of sales?
Pope , sales figures don't mean a got dam thing in this regard . How long have they been in the atv business as opposed to the other brands ? Give them time to earn their place in the market bud . They DO make good products , and NO , i don't work for Arctic Cat either ! I used to be a Cat hater as well years ago ( i did own a few Cat sleds) , but they have come a long way in a short time .
Posted by: hellyeh
Pope , if you go back and re-read what pegleg posted , you should CLEARLY see that Catterman was replying and recommending based on what pegleg was looking for . He wants to use his "toy" (as he stated ) for work as well . He was looking at the Grizzly and KQ , so i would say he is wanting IRS . He wants to use 3 point attatchments , drag his property and pull a small trailer , all of which the Cat is more than capable of doing trouble free . I suspect that by his reference to it being his "toy" , that he also wants something that will better serve that purpose as well . I will not argue the point you made that the Foremans are THE best atv for PURE work purposes , but i don't think he would be dissapointed in the Cat , for what he intends to use it for . I don't see Catterman's recommendation as any reason to bash him . The guy is EXTREMELY happy with his purchase , so let it be just that . You don't see Catterman calling down any other atv , he's just relaying his positive experience to another potential buyer is all . Take it for what it's worth man .
I still think an apology is in order .
Posted by: hellyeh
Quote
Originally posted by: reconranger
It is impossible not to note that the North American companies that also build snowmobiles (A Cat, Polaris, and Can-Am.......or whatever they are calling themselves this week), tend to build NEEDLESSLY HEAVY machines. The Japaneese companies have at least agreed to keep the weight down to a max of 600 pounds (still awfull heavy), so that is something for any buyer to take into consideration when selecting a machine!
Actually reconranger , if i remember correctly , the weight with the Japanese quads has something to do with shipping them here . They have to stay right around 600 lbs. dry weight . I don't recall what the actual reasoning was , but i remember reading that somewhere about 4 years ago .
Posted by: hellyeh
Quote
Originally posted by: reconranger
hell-The Honda's anyway, are made in North Carolina or Ohio (???). Most of the others are produced here a well, so forget your lame idea about shipping weight!
Well recon , i know what i read ! I came across that statement while doing research before i purchased my 02 Kawi 650 , it was in an article i was reading at the time . I was surprised to learn that as well . If it was THAT important to me to prove you wrong , i would waste the time to find the information to do so , but since it's not , i'll just let this one slide .
Posted by: hellyeh
Quote
Originally posted by: Catterman
Quote
Originally posted by: hellyeh
Quote
Originally posted by: reconranger
hell-The Honda's anyway, are made in North Carolina or Ohio (???). Most of the others are produced here a well, so forget your lame idea about shipping weight!
Well recon , i know what i read ! I came across that statement while doing research before i purchased my 02 Kawi 650 , it was in an article i was reading at the time . I was surprised to learn that as well . If it was THAT important to me to prove you wrong , i would waste the time to find the information to do so , but since it's not , i'll just let this one slide .
Actually, they are made overseas, and assembled in Ohio. Isn't that how it goes?
This is what i found .
Posted by: hellyeh
Quote
Originally posted by: Catterman
Quote
Originally posted by: Scootergptx
Maybe the hondas weigh less (not counting sport models) because they haven't added anything new in a while.
Still no apology to C????
Yah, I am waiting! hr>
I think you will be waiting for awhile C .I don't think those two are cut from that cloth .
Posted by: mywifesquad
Quote
Originally posted by: OneFlyCowboy
WOAH WOAH WOAH.. C is not an arctic Cat employee!!! He works in the medical field. and he bought his Cat while in alaska!!!
Yah, and his nickname is because hes so fond of cats!!
Posted by: OneFlyCowboy
WOAH WOAH WOAH.. C is not an arctic Cat employee!!! He works in the medical field. and he bought his Cat while in alaska!!!
Posted by: MrDumass
C'mon fellas, get real! Those claims about Catterman are so friggin erroneous!
Posted by: BigDog800EFI
For a pure work horse I would look into a Honda. With the gears VS> the belt.
Posted by: BigDog800EFI
ppope- that is exactly what I would say.
Posted by: ppope
Honda's are the best work machines on the market. That's the only thing that they're the best at, but they beat everything out in the work category. Don't rely on the folks in here that always seem to push their machine off as the best. I have researched every machine on the market and know most of each of their capabilities. I offer good and unbiased advise. For my type of use for an atv, honda sucks, but for a work machine they can't be beat!
Posted by: ppope
He never stated "big bore" but merely said he currently had a 350 and wanted more. Therefore the Honda foreman 500 and rubicon 500 would be more. The only big bore honda makes is the rincon and I would not reccommend it as a work machine. The best work machine honda makes is the 500cc forman. Air cooled, solid rear axle, geared low, shaft driven, no belts to slip,and plenty of power to pull anything he wants. Do I think my sportsman or even my grizzly are good work machines, sure, but not the best. For someone looking to buy an atv for work intended puposes, I would not reccomend either of my machines, because I know they're not the best, capable, but not the best. Honda makes the , most durable, capable, and dependable work atv available. As stated I give facts, and unbiased reccommendations. I don't own a honda, but If I needed a work machine I would!
Posted by: ppope
Quote
Originally posted by: reconranger
Why is there always someone WHO LIVES IN MINNESOTA AND ALWAYS RECOMMENDS AN ARCTIC CAT, who pops up every time there is a "which quad to buy" question???
My point exactly!!!
Posted by: ppope
Seriously Cats are good in the mud. I ride mostly mud, so it would work for my style, but they don't stand out anywhere else.... Otherwise, why are they the last in number of sales?
Posted by: ppope
Let me clear something up. I am not a cat hater. In fact I have 2 cats at home, a simease and a calico :-) Just kidding, but in fact AC is my second favorite atv. I am a serious mudder and cats rule for my terrain, however, I try to advise people based on what they plan to do with it, not me. As a work horse, I want something that is going to be dependable. The less technological stuff on it the more dependable, or less likely for something to break. The foreman has no radiator to puncture, no water hoses to rip loose , no rear cv boots to tear, no cvt belts to slip or replace, no efi technology, and a manual tranny with one low granny gear! There's not alot to break, malfunction, and leave you workless. The reputation is second to none. Who can argue with this. As for the Catterman topic. He always manages to advice anyone that ask for advice on a machine, no matter what they are looking for, to look at an AC. I have never seen him advice otherwise. Give it a break! We know you love your cat, but it's yours and not for everyone.
Posted by: ppope
If you want something to push and pull heavy materials, then you will in turn need a heavy machine. There are two that fit the bill. Polaris, and yes AC. Since there is no AC dealer in your area, go try to the polaris sportsmans out. They have a super low, low range. The Grizzly does not push or pull as well as the sporstmans. Neither do the Suzuki's, Kawasaki's, honda's, or Bombs. Only thing about the sportsman you may not like are the plastic racks. Works good for someone that trail rides and needs lots of attachements, but they're plastic. They may have the same weight capacity as the steel racks, but they are not as durable. Plastic will break before steel.
Posted by: ppope
I would suggest you look at any of the 06 efi models of the sportsmans. They have the new style clutching which is even lower than the 05 models.
Posted by: Toyeboy
Why get a slow/boring Honda Foreman when he could have a faster/better/more fun ATV for the same price that at the same time can work just as good....Any of the utes of 400cc's plus can be workhorses if you want them to be.
I recommend a Polaris Sportsman 450 or 500 because I had a Sportsman 400 and it was definitely more of a worker than a trail rider...they weigh 700lbs and can tow a lot!!...I pulled a van out of the snow a few years ago with my 400 very easily...and they aren't the fastest things so they'd be perfect for a workhorse. Plus with their AWD setup you'd have full 4wd which you wouldn't get with any Honda.
Posted by: Toyeboy
Yeah..take a look at the Polaris Sportsman's 450, 500, 700 or 800. They are very heavy and can tow a lot and they have a low gear, but at the same time they can be driven for fun on the trails. The Grizzly and KQ are 600lbs each vs. the Sp500's 700lbs and the sp700/800's near 800lbs. I wouldn't buy a KQ or Grizzly for mostly working, I have a KQ and it's not built for mainly working more sporty trail riding. Also the sportsman's stock tires are much better than the KQ or Grizz, so you'll be able to get more traction in the dirt plowing and pull stuff.
Posted by: Toyeboy
Quote
Originally posted by: pegleg1az
I have done a little liking and reading and I did read that grizzly does tow 12200 lbs and has a better liiking hitch for towing compair to most others out there. Some units do not even have a hitch.
I went to the yamaha/ honda dealer and they were shocked that know one was backing the grizzly for a workhorse. He did say that the Foreman would also be a good choice based on price. I was reading on the Kodiak, Foreman, and grizzly. I was thinging as to they have been arounf for years and are a proven name in ATV's.
Just my thoughts.
Don D.
I'm pretty sure it's just a typo but the Grizzly tows 1220lbs not 12200 lbsDid the dealer tell you that probably not... but they'll say anything to make a sale. I'm pretty sure all ute's have a hitch aside from maybe some of the smaller Hondas.
As for the Grizz as a workhorse...I can see one being used as a workhorse, it could tow the Swisher attachments easily, as could almost any other ute out there. What it comes down to is how much playing are you wanting to do with it, the Grizz is a lot more fun than the Foreman and if your wanting to have fun then don't get a Foreman, b/c they are slow.
Also did your Wolvy 350 have enough power to get the work done? Are you wanting/needing the extra power? If so the Grizzly would be a better choice than the Kodiak or Foreman..because they are very close to the Wolvy in the power department.
Posted by: xFreebirdx
Quote
Originally posted by: hellyeh
I for one think a direct apology to Catterman is in order , anyone else ?
I agree 110%!
Posted by: ncriderforks
I would take a Sportsman any day, just my 2 cents. Live on a farm and we've had a cat, honds, and a griz. The sportsman power to the ground is great. They seem to do the job better for what we do with them. Nothing against any other brand. They all have goods and bads
Posted by: v2rider
Arctic Cat is the best work horse you can get, with speedrack options, ground clearance, and a 2" reciever. And why is it reconranger pops up and says the recon is god of ATv land?
Posted by: v2rider
I for one am actually friends with catterman. And i can say, he knows what he is talking about. The only reason he says get an AC, is because, along with me, he thinks its best for what he wants. The cat comment was a little childish, but whatever. And actually, AC had its sixth record sales year, so when they pass up polaris in the future, mabey you wont doubt there reliability, and oh yeah, your warranty expires when??? Mine is for 3 yrs, so they must have some faith in the product.
Posted by: v2rider
Since Cat is 90 miles away, get a Grizzly or a Brute Force. Or drive 90 miles and get an H1! You wouldnt regret it. I guess if all else fails, get a honda, geez. A polaris will fall aprt under any stress. (jk lol)
Posted by: v2rider
I would never be able to pull a wagon full of hay with that light little turd recon. I love my heavy lard a** machine!!!
Posted by: 800TwinEFI
I would recommend Polaris myself. My 800 EFI will tow up to 1500 lbs. That is 450 lbs more than for example the Artic Cat 700 EFI (nothing against Artic Cat...just mentioning it since it has been discussed so much in the thread). It is not a apples to apples comparison due to the difference in displacement in the two machines coming in at roughly 65ccs. Polaris IMHO does make a good all around ATV. I would not say it is the worlds greatest at any particular thing, but does a suitable job in most categories. While I like the look of the AC, the high center of gravity, and subsequent stronger tendency to tip was always a concern for me as I do engage in pleasure rides in some pretty decent trails. Best thing to do is look at the specs from the various bikes your interested in and then see how people have rated that model if possible. It's a gamble anyway you look at it. You just have to try and make the most informed decision possible for you and what you will do.
Posted by: pegleg1az
I have been looking at the grizzly and saw the KQ.
I will be using my ATV for a work horse, I am going to put a Swisher atachment blade and bucket for starters. I have a 98 wolverine 350 now and use it to pull a small trailer with a gen, air and welder, we also drag our property with it, but would like to get something that can do more work.. I may even put a 3 point atachment on the rear in time.
Any good imput on the units I am looing at or any I have not looked at? I am looking for something that is not confusing for my wife to use. We live in southern AZ and the ground is hard as a rock or slippery in the rains with red clay
My wife thought I was nuts buying an ATV for working on our 4 acres with the horses, but now I can not get HER off my toy.
It is a good time to upgrade as long as she is into using it also.
Don D.
Posted by: pegleg1az
OK
Now that I am back to defend my posting, I am looking for a unit that can use with a blade and a bucket:
http://www.swisherinc.com/atv_accessories.html
I plan on moving some piles of Horse SHI_ , rocks, Arizona hard pack dirt. I am looking for a unit that has the power to push and pull things around.. along with pulling trailers full of what ever as mention earlier in my post ... When it is not working then it can be a play toy for some trials with freinds.
I thought bigger the better, that is why I memtioned the Grizzly and the KQ. If I am wrong then help point me in the right direction.
The dealers we have in this town/ city is: Yamaha/ Honda, Suzu/ Kaw/ Polaris. They have a cat dealer about 90 miles away...
I did look at the Suz Eiger, Looked good. I looked at the grizzly, Looked good also. AGAIN, I do not know what is a work horse and what is not built or designed for working as in pulling and pushing things around.... I live in the desert. DIRT AND MOUNTIANS. No water for mud bogs or no snow to freeze my ass off. "been there, done that, got smart and chose to sweat year round in the desert.
Born and raised in Wisc., got smart 22 years ago. I hope I did not affend anyone that likes freezing their ass off in the winter. Joints don't like it anymore... Been in T/ C hosp in Neenha for 3 months 22 years ago from a M/C wreck.
I hope this helps all of you.
Don D.
Posted by: pegleg1az
I have done a little liking and reading and I did read that grizzly does tow 12200 lbs and has a better liiking hitch for towing compair to most others out there. Some units do not even have a hitch.
I went to the yamaha/ honda dealer and they were shocked that know one was backing the grizzly for a workhorse. He did say that the Foreman would also be a good choice based on price. I was reading on the Kodiak, Foreman, and grizzly. I was thinging as to they have been arounf for years and are a proven name in ATV's.
Just my thoughts.
Don D.
Posted by: ncorrieri
Quote
Originally posted by: pegleg1az
I have done a little liking and reading and I did read that grizzly does tow 12200 lbs and has a better liiking hitch for towing compair to most others out there. Some units do not even have a hitch.
I went to the yamaha/ honda dealer and they were shocked that know one was backing the grizzly for a workhorse. He did say that the Foreman would also be a good choice based on price. I was reading on the Kodiak, Foreman, and grizzly. I was thinging as to they have been arounf for years and are a proven name in ATV's.
Just my thoughts.
Don D.
12200 lbs?> Dizam BR>
Posted by: ncorrieri
get a raceway, theyre the best!
