Pages: 1
Posted by: Arctic388
Which would you pick if you were buying new ?
At first i thought sure the 650 but the more I compare them I am considering the 500 then if you consider the 500 the 400 is almost the same for less $$$$'s so why not just go with the 400.
Then the question is automatic or manual.
Thanks for any help. This is really turnin in to a big decision.
Posted by: Arctic388
this is a really hard decision.
I just got to ride the 300 I sold a few months ago and afterthat I believe i might just wait a little longer and get the biggest one of the bunch. the 650. after riding the 300 it just plain sucked compared to the bigger boys.
but that is a lot of price difference for the same amount of product.
Posted by: Arctic388
what are the prices paid for the respective bikes ?
Posted by: Arctic388
the older 400's were liquid cooled but the new 376 cc 400's are not.
i think the old 400's were 371 or so cc's
i really like the 400's price but how much can you get the 500 or 650 for .
Posted by: Arctic388
i just wanted to thank most of ya'll for the responses and just ask what everybody paid for their machines.
since i only have one dealer nearby i think it will be harder to negotiate.
Posted by: Arctic388
have yall seen the prices for the ranchers.
350 4X4 for 3899
Posted by: Arctic388
Thanks to everyone who posted.
and to those reading this why havent you posted something yet ?
Posted by: Arctic388
Thanks for all the replys.
Posted by: bblomert
I have the 400i AC and I also wondered about getting a bigger engine. When hunting and buzzing the trails, the Honda 300, 350 and 450 seem to be able to keep well ahead of me. I prefer to keep in low range, which seems to be better to me when going off trails to do around beaver dams etc. I am able to stay in 3rd, and use 2nd and 1st for complicated stuff. However, this week I realized that my 400i is just the ticket for me while moose huntinig. Don't worry about not having enough power! We got 2 bulls that were in the Skaggs across a dried up beaver dam area. I had NO trouble pulling my moose out, even though I had my doubts in the beginning. The independant suspension allowed me to have all 4 wheels on the ground at the same time, while the Hondas had at least 1 tire in the air and the older 350 had 2 tires in the air most times (it was a solid axle machine). With my 400i in low range and first gear I basically idled through the rough stuff. It had incredible traction and pulled like crazy! Don't get me wrong here folks.....all the quads no matter what brand made it through the week. Some just made it easier.
By the way, I did change my tires immediately after buying the quad but I did not go up in size. I did go a bit wider, but I wanted to keep the low end grunt and thus kept the same tire height. Good luck in your decision.
Posted by: bblomert
retirednak,
The only 'buzz' that I got on my machine (and others had it too) was a vibration thing that was happening between the bottom floor plate and the frame. Just loosened some of the fasteners and added spacers. Voila....end of buzzing sound. Are you sure your buzzing sound is related to exhaust? Just a thought.
Posted by: JohnO
I tend to use my 500i for work around the farm. Had a chance to ride a 400 last summer - biggest difference was the 500 had a lot more low end grunt - it just didn't bog down, whereas you had to keep an eye on the 400's engine speed. If you're working, and especially if you're hauling loaded trailers, try to get the 500.
I'd love a 650, but just not worth the money I'd have to spend to get one. The 500i meets all my needs now, and has a manual transmission, too.
Posted by: JohnO
$5800 for my 500i manual. Added a winch later, well worth having.
Posted by: DanW
Quote
Originally posted by: Arctic388
Which would you pick if you were buying new ?
At first i thought sure the 650 but the more I compare them I am considering the 500 then if you consider the 500 the 400 is almost the same for less $$$$'s so why not just go with the 400.
Then the question is automatic or manual.
Thanks for any help. This is really turnin in to a big decision.
I like them all. You'd be thrilled with any of them. However, the power of that 650 is in a league of its own. The locking front diff is a nice thing, too.
Having said that, I've lived happily for 2 years with a 375 (same engine as 400) and decided to keep it. It is an amazing machine. The 400 with IRS would probably be even better, with the added ground clearance and shift on the fly 4wd. Also, I'd bet the 500 is right between the two in terms of power.
You'd probably be looking at 2 grand less for the 400. That decision would be pretty tough for me. That's why I kept both!
Posted by: DanW
Quote
Originally posted by: markie
I know the ac with the semi Independent suspention will handle a elk better than irs because you don't get body roll and the rear end dosen't slag as much when loaded.sure the irs works better on off cambers but i think solid akles work better for hauling heavy loads.
I think I would buy the 650 because i like to have the best ,i hate wishing that i had a better machine.or having a freinds machine out performe mine.
Only if the ACT rear suspension has adjustable shocks like the IRS. Go to a dealer and stick a heavy load on the back of the 650 with the shocks tightened up. You'll be very surprised at how well it does. My ACT 375 hauls heavy loads well, too, but it does not have the adjustable shocks, so for now, my 650 is the load bearing champ. Also, the track is wider on the IRS, adding to stability. Both haul heavy loads very well. I think the new 2004 400 ACT machines have the adjustable shocks now.
Posted by: DanW
You could easily fix that skid plate buzzing by taking it off and then putting some kind of adhesive backed rubber at strategic spots. If you can isolate the location of the buzzing, it might be even more simple.
Posted by: luvthemud
go with the 500, i think that it is worth it.
Posted by: FUFIGHTER
I wouldn't trade my 2003 500 in for anything even a 650, The price is right, on the 500 you get loads of power I find it quick i've had the speedo buried , it has a very comfortable ride and everytime i'm on the trail someone stops me to look at it even some grizz owners the only thing it lacks is a locking diff but usually a little side to side action will get you out and everyone seems to tell me its the biggest looking bike out there! In my opinion just an opinion the 500 rules!
Posted by: CatCanDo
Got my 400I 4X4 Auto (MRP) in Feb '03. Paid $5400 and change OTD with plow & winch. Went with the 400 to get the auto trans. Used it to push alot of snow last winter. My Brother in Law was impressed enough with the AC look and performance, he bought a 500 auto. Came in @ about $600 more than mine without the plow ( he did take advantage of the $69 winch).
Having had the chance to ride the 400 and 500 over the same trails and conditions, I am in a position to give an un-biased opinion. The 400 is very adequate. It will go anywhere any bike will go. Top speed on blacktop with my 200 lbs aboard is 51mph (speedometer). The 500 is more adequate from the low end power standpoint and has quicker throttle response. Top speed on blacktop is probably a little over 60 mph (I no longer have the desire for speed I once did as a younger fella, especially on a short wheelbase, high center of gravity). I guess it gets down to the $1000 base price difference. You do get noticably more power with the 500 if you want to pay for it, but, as I said the 400 is very, very adequate.
Can't speak to the 650. From what I have read, it's a King - of - the - Hill type of bike. My guess is it's probably another $1000 - $1200 over the 500. Gets down to how much habit you can afford.
I'm just glad to read a thread where the 400 is even mentioned with the 500 and 650!
Posted by: Remotruker
I had the same question. I was looking at the 400 for the most part due to the cost. But the 04's came out and i had to re think my decision. I landed on the 500 due to the new features. I like the box hitch, and the digital display. I have read that the old gas tank gauges suck so the digital is a no brainer to me. I also like the electric 4x switch idea. The extended fenders add some value as well. Order the dvd if you don't already have it. The extra power is great when you have it to take for granted, but the lack of power will suck if you don't have it. Manual transmission is a no brainer too for me. I will be using mine for work too and that us no place for an auto. The manual will get slightly better gas mileage too. When i am ready to buy in a few more months the 500 will be my choice. Also the re-sale value will be there too when it comes time. In the resale market not too many people are looking at smaller than 500.
Posted by: Woodpecker
My 400 did not have any problems to haul this caribou out of the mountain side. It was not very heavy (less than 400 lb) but the cat took this and two people at a time without any problem.BR>check out this pic picture
Posted by: 400CatDriver
I already have a 400 but think I'll buy the 650 as well. My GF likes to ride the 400 so we'll keep that one for her.
Posted by: 400CatDriver
My son sells ACs for a local dealer. I'll bet he could get you a price worth driving for.
Posted by: 400CatDriver
I've got a 400 with stock tires and it pushes snow like a champ. We've got a diesel tractor with a blade and I'd rather use the Cat to move snow rather than the tractor. Quicker and easier! Tires haven't been a problem at all.
Posted by: markie
I know the ac with the semi Independent suspention will handle a elk better than irs because you don't get body roll and the rear end dosen't slag as much when loaded.sure the irs works better on off cambers but i think solid akles work better for hauling heavy loads.
I think I would buy the 650 because i like to have the best ,i hate wishing that i had a better machine.or having a freinds machine out performe mine.
Posted by: markie
the grizzly's rear suspention kills me,i remember my friends grizz loaded with 1/2 an elk on therear and my old foreman with the other half on the rear.my foreman haul it easy but the griz had lots of sag and was tippy.its hard to beat those foremans for hauling game and i know the arctic cats do very well to.i have a polaris 700 and its rear sus is adjustable like the arctic cat but i havent hauled on it yet but if i do i will make sure my ac 400 is there just in case.
Posted by: Bobmack
Go with the 500 or 650 water cooled
and the tires 589 m/s way better tire
Posted by: CATDOG
I found myself asking the same questions when i bought my cat-i decided to go with the 400IRS-AUTO-the machines are so similar with ground clearance and other benefits that for the price i went to the 400...guess it all depends on what your gonna do with it...i use mine for hunting and ice fishing so there isnt a need for an engine so big...it gets the job done when i need it to. Good luck with your purchase-you wont be dissapointed with any of the CAT machines!
Posted by: CATDOG
You wanted to know about pricing......I got my 2003 in January-400 4X4 Auto-with fully independent suspension for $5,000. I didn't have to beg or barter...With snow on the ground the dealer wanted to sell snowmobiles and the wheeler was sitting in storage-I didn't get any other extras with the machine-I had been the first person in there in months to look at a wheeler-so I guess you gotta be at the right place at the right time to get a great deal.....Just gotta look when noone else is-it might give you some better leverage for getting them at a good price!! Best of Luck-Keep us posted
Posted by: AnimalAl
Glad to here I'm not the only one that is having trouble deciding on which bike to get. At first it was the 500, then the 650, but know after adding the cost of plows, winch, trailer, etc. I'm looking at the 400. To many decisions. I've decided to not decide and wait. I wish had any bike today, we just got 12" of fresh snow today. Good luck.
Posted by: Polaris500HO4x4
i would think that 500i also is better then the 400 because it is liquid cooled whereas the 400 isnt.
Posted by: gunguru
I would probably go with the 400i, its cheaper its pretty much the same machine as the 500i except motor wise, and the cheapiest i have found them is for 5100.00 asking price that is. 650 is way to much money, its a bad bike though,
Posted by: Diesle
I&39;m sure the 650 is a great and powerful machine. Ill just let you know that I have an 03 400i that blows me away every time I&39;ve taken it out.
- Once I went out with another rider. 2 dudes over 200 pounds and gear. Pushing the 500 lb max weight for the 400.... The suspension barley shrugged at the load and the engine was impressive. Low speed riding over tough terrain was crazy. Lots of stuff I looked at and thought I wouldn&39;t make it with a rider on and the thing just pushed right through. At the high end, got up to 45 with the heavy load.
- With just me on it and no gear, its all the machine I feel I need. The size of the AC 400 is comparable to the larger 500 and 650 machines and it has a ridicules amount of ground clearance.
It would definitely not be worth it to me to spend another $2500 or $3000 on a 650 when the 400i is so capable. But that&39;s me...
Good luck!
Posted by: Diesle
I paid $4500 for my 2003 400i brand new.
The 400 is air and oil cooled. There is an oil cooler and fan mounted in front.
Diesle
Posted by: akfireman
I had the same problems deciding, but I am going to be using mine for working and playing, so i decided on a manual. I wasnt sure how big an engine to get but went with the 400/cost, I havent ridden much yet, I just got it a week ago and temps dropped to below 0, but it seems to have lots of power and the gearing is great at the low end. After growing up with 3-wheelers this thing has got so much more power I love it.
Posted by: akfireman
hey diktok, how do you like the mudlites in the snow, i am trying to decide between the 589 m/s or the mudlites, maybe we can get together sometime and ride, maybe at chena lakes or something.
Posted by: akfireman
thats funny I live on plack rd too, behind the plack rd baptist church.
Posted by: akfireman
the 400 is liquid cooled, at least mine is.
Posted by: akfireman
paid 5299 for my 04 400I a month ago.
Posted by: akfireman
hey retired, not sure about dealers in wasilla, but northern power sports in fairbanks has aftermarket tires, i am considering the ITP Mud Lites, Diktok has them and he really likes them in the snow. on your exhaust i would look at an 04 and see if you can do something like A/C did they made rubber mounts like a car exhaust.
Posted by: DikTok
Quote
Originally posted by: akfireman
I had the same problems deciding, but I am going to be using mine for working and playing, so i decided on a manual. I wasnt sure how big an engine to get but went with the 400/cost, I havent ridden much yet, I just got it a week ago and temps dropped to below 0, but it seems to have lots of power and the gearing is great at the low end. After growing up with 3-wheelers this thing has got so much more power I love it.
Posted by: DikTok
I have a 2003 400i with 27" mud light tires on stock rims. Wow this is a great setup, this is a very peppy and super smooth machine. I am going to try install rubber gaskets on my exhaust system, to help with low speed buzz, the 400 is known for. I have the manual transmission and love it's vercitility. Another plus with the 400 is it cannot have a water pump/cooling system problem. Its very basic and reliable. Ride on be happy...
Posted by: DikTok
The mudlights were my first choice. They are ITP's latest design. They are lighter than the 589's and are a super all terrain mud tire. Best of all they cost less. The 589 may be better in mud only but Mudlights are better everywhere else, including snow. That is my opinion. Best of all they are sold at Northern Power Sports for a good price. I shopped all over the internet but shipping to Alaska was the problem. It is good to know you can buy local and not pay too much! I live off Plack rd. so I guess its a small world. Chena lakes sounds good it can be muddy, good thing you got that winch,me too. ride on be good...
Posted by: DikTok
I live at 1810 Jessica Loop , and live next to the pipeline. Stop by for a cup of coffee ,and we can check out some trials.
Posted by: retirednak
Hey Guys,
I live in between Wasillla & Palmer and own a '03 400i auto and I'm wanting new tires for my machine. The stock tires seem to roll too much onto the sidewalls, plus they are not that great at pushing snow. Do you know where I can purchase the mudlites locally? Let me know how the rubber gaskets on the exhaust system install goes because both my quad and my wifes 400i have the buzz thing happening. Have you heard of anybody making an aftermarket exhaust system for the Cats? Keep Warm!
retirednak
Posted by: retirednak
Hey bblomert,
The noise sounds like it could be coming from the floor plate,I've not looked too hard for it. My wifes 400i just started making the same noise with 200 less miles on it, so I'll have to look into it. Thanks for the info. Keep Warm!
Posted by: MasterCat
OK here we go! I have both A 2002 400I IRS 2x4 and A 2002 500I IRS 4X4. They are both great machines. I use them both for work and play. I put 1,000 miles of trail riding on each. WHAT A BLAST!! I use the 400 and 500 the same way for work and play. This is what I found. The 400 is a good machine, has done every thing i have asked it. YOU have to keep rpm's up on 400. A little under powered when in 4 th and 5th gear going up long small hills . KEEP the RPMS UP!! 500 has the POWER plus HI and LO range makes a BIG difference when working with the HEAVY stuff. (1000 pound trailer). 4x4 is NICE can do and climb hills easier and slower or faster than the 400. I feel the same about 4th and 5th gear on the 500 just does not have the pull on hills..TOP speed on both the machine are the same 50-55 mph. IF I had to pick one, I would take the 500 every time. IT's worth the extra $$$. plus its nice to have the extra power. I have had no problems with either and they are work horses. I hope this helps.
Posted by: MudCatII
I haven&39;t had any other problems out of my 03 500 4x4 auto as of yet, out side the one's that have been mentioned like the skid plate buzzing, but I can live with that, the buzzing stops as soon as I start to move and the high low gear grinding still happens some time, but I think it's because I do not come to a complete stop before I start pulling on the lever. As for price I gave $6,000 stock, swapped stock tires and wheels for the 589 M/T AT27X9-12 and the chromed wheels for $580.00, front bush bumper $125.00, 2,500 lb Warn winch $300.00, large storage box with back rest that mounts on the rear rack $159.00 for a total of $7,157.00 plus tax ouch that hurt. Since I have bought my ride I have thought about trading it in on the 650, but decided that the 500 is much easier to work on when it comes to changing out jets and just routine maintenance. I had a Kaw 300 4x4 Bayou for seven years that I thought a lot of, but this beats the hell out of that. I like keeping them for a while and I think this one is a keeper. I like to ride in Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Arkansas and Louisiana. I would like to take it up around the Great Lakes and ride on some of those great trails I keep hearing about. I have a brother-law living in Wisconsin, so I might get the chance before long. Good Luck "Keep'm Turning"
