ok because it is an 05

 

I have a Honda Rancher. A great machine and bullet proof but I'm starting to hate shifting. I also have a Kymco (CVT). I find myself leaving my 250R/300ex/and the rancher home and ride the Kymco cuz it's just a "hang on and hit the throttle" machine. It's just easier.
I consider Honda to be lacking not having a CVT in their line-up.
Polaris has come a long-long way and have earned my respect. 10 years ago the only use thay had was a target for my roost as they lay in wait for a tow. LMAO

 

hondas are probably one of the most reliable and durable bikes you can buy.

 

My group rides in a lot of water and mud, and these are my thoughts.

The bikes that get stuck the least are the ones with the most ground clearance. Don't care if it's an AC400 or a CanAm850, the IRS bikes can go deeper into the ruts.

My Rancher 420 4x4 and all the Foreman 500 4x4's are usually getting pushed or pulled out of the deeper holes, if we go in there. Don't get me wrong, the Honda's will go through alot, but the solid rear axle limits the depth of the rut you can go in without high-centering.

That said, The Honda's are there every time we go out to ride. Can't say the same for the rest of the brands. Some have had very little or no problems, but it seems everytime a bike is missing 'cause it's broke, it's a Suzuki, Yamaha, AC, Kawasaki, Polaris, etc.

If riding in deep water and mud is your thing, do yourself a favor and get the following;

An IRS bike with;
500+cc's
True 4wd
26"+ deep-lug mud tires (highly recommend Gators)
Well sealed snorkel
Winch or tow strap
Auto trans or shifter up top (reaching into cold muddy water to shift ain't fun)
SERVICE MANUAL

For all-around riding, some mud, trails, etc. I wouldn't buy anything but what I got. A Honda Rancher 4x4. What a sweet all-around bike.

For a work quad, the Foreman would get my vote.

 

For the OP, the answer is ............


Polaris 500 Sportsman. Add 26" Gators, a snorkel, and a tow strap. (Oh, and a SERVICE MANUAL)

 

bye far the polaris

 

I found myself in the same situation about 9 years ago. At that time, the honda which seems to have a bullet proof engine and always has had. It had full time 4x4 and would cost 300-400 to a put lock out on it.

I ended up with a polaris 425 xpedition 5 speed 4x4 straight rear axel. I rode with a lot of guys that had hondas, and the air intake was just above the headlights so they would always suck water when riding through deep water. Honda had the limited slip front diff. and Polaris was and still is the only true all wheel drive. The "all wheel drive" is why i bought my 2nd Polaris (08 sportsman 500 HO) in 08.

Polaris has the best 4x4 system. They are kind of big and tall, but they ride like a caddy. I haven't regretted buying either one of them, and i will buy another one some day. The only thing i don't like about mine is the front end design. It's butt ugly.

 

i have a sportsman 500 and it has a drain for belt housing . han=ve not used it yet but spring is coming.

 

Here is some pics that kinda speak for themselves

 

cant go wrong with Big Red