Revisiting this thread, been on a hiatus but back in the hunt.
I agree my initial price cap is a far-fetched idea for a decent machine.
I have been looking at IRS than a solid rear axle but not a deal breaker. I keep coming back to the Grizzly 450 for it's IRS and size, not too big for trails and a decent mid-size frame.
The early-2000 Sportsman 500 does look promising. What is up with the Grizzly 600-660, did they have any known issues that can really break the bank with repairs? I've seen a few of them at a decent price. The old Honda's I like, but agreed the prices are high...the King Quad is also nice and I don't mind the size.
I appreciate all the help when I started this thread. I guess under $4K should get me quite a bit, closer to $2500-3K is more realistic.
I don't mind buying new, but for what I want to do, used is fine, and I really don't want another big purchase right now..lol.