gonna be in the market soon for a 4 wheeler-gonna probably buy used but I am looking for some ideas on what to look for-what brand, which model and some things to look for-

gonna probaly have about a 4k budget-

Thanks

Dave

I have been using Polaris ATV's since 1993 and I personally think they are the best by far. I currently have a Sportsman 800 and a Sportsman 500.

Whatever brand you chose, I would get at least a 500cc. That will pretty much do everything that you want it to. I would also make sure that it is a 4x4 and not a 4x2. You won't always need the 4x4, but when you need it, you really need it and it is worth the extra cost!!

+1 on what LoneRanger said.

However, if you don't need one to plow food plots or pull mesquite trees one in the 400-450cc range will get you anywhere you want to go.

4WD is great, but if you are not in a lot of mud or real steep terrain a 2WD will suffice.

As far as brands, I've had two Hondas and now own a Polaris. For the ride, the Polaris Independent front and rear suspension is top notch. After all, I'm getting older and softer. Stick with the nams brands so you can get parts and service. I would stay away from the Chinese stuff. You can find a good 4 wheeler for the $4000 you have without going there.

Bad Boy Buggies are super sweet for those interested

As said above, stick with the name brands. Im a honda guy, i own a Rincon 650 4x4 and a foreman 450 4x4. Both are stout and durable. Owned several honda's over the years and they take a beating, but are very reliable. Never owned a Polaris, but my family has several and they love theirs like I love mine. Just look around, there's some pretty good deals out there right now. Good Luck

Amen to sticking on the name brands, do not by those cheap nock offs. I have a Yamaha Kodiak 400 (Yr 2000 model)and love it and have had no problems what so ever. I got my kid one of those cheapos to ride around the house and have nothing but problems. It has the worse wiring job I have ever seen. It has constant problems.JMO

I have a Honda Rubicon 500 and it is a 2002 model. I have had Polaris and Yamaha in the past, and would not trade that Honda for either. To me it is the best all around 4-wheeler I have owned.

I had a 2005 Honda Foreman 500 and let my bro talk me out of it for pay-0ff when I moved to San Antonio. I would suggest looking around for a moron like me who lets a perfectly good one go like that for $1800.

I have an 05 Polaris Ranger and love it. Also have an 85 Honda Big Red three wheeler that I picked up for $500 a couple of months ago. Runs like a top! I enjoy using the Honda, but its not very good in mud. I think they are all good as long as you stay with name brands.

My 7 year old Yamahas have never let me down.

Had a yamaha grizzly 660 and loved it. It also had Independent front and rear suspension and rode real smooth. I wish i wouldnt have sold it.

Bro-in-law has an Artic Cat 4 wheeler. He says it is much better then the Polaris he had. I like my jacked up electric golf cart. Very quiet, allowing to sneak up on things. Also carries 2 people and gear.

Love my Arctic Cat... Has the speed rack which is VERY nice.

This is kinda like the Ford/Chevy/Dodge debate. What one brand has, another will lack and vice versa. I think as long as you stick one one of the major name brands you should be just fine. Just shop around and look for good deals. I bought my '05 Grizzly in March of '06. It was brand new, but it was one of two 2005 models left over. I bought one, and my buddy bought the other for $2000 less than the exact same atv in an '06 . Just some food for thought.

Polaris....
Got a 2000 500 H.O. and it has never failed me. Put it through hell down here in the Sulphur Bottoms and it keeps right on going.

How much are you looking to spend?

Get a 660 or 700 Grizzly. Not the biggest but one awsome, reliable machine. I have a 660 that is just great.

I like my new 400 HO Polaris