Need help picking new utility ATV

[04SE]

I just sold my Honda TRX400X and need something much more practical. I need fully independent suspension, 4x4 (duhhh), and solid racks NOT cheesy, flimsy ones. I would prefer a manual 4x4 selector versus this switch stuff. Don't need power steering. I am open to motor sizes above 400 (true 400 class, not a 330 called a 400) and anything more than 700 or 800 would probably not be needed. I need a two speed auto trans with high and low. I am open to any brand and have a max price of $8,000 and won't be financing unless it is a crazy awesome deal.

I have a 2003 Arctic Cat 400 FIS 4x4 that is my dream machine but after 10 years and 10,000 miles the old girl is getting tired and needs to be put on restricted duty. Basically, I need a modern version of this machine.

I also don't want to be a guinney pig for a new fuel injection setup. I wouldn't mind having fuel injection as long as it is a proven setup.

 

[Andy636]

Take a look at the Arctic Cat 2013 Super Duty Diesel 700
Looks pretty darn good to me

P.S.- Sorry I just saw that your budget is 8K and this one is 10, but you could buy a 2012 leftover for about 8K probably

 

[KD0AXS]

Honestly, all of the major ATV brands make a pretty darn good machine these days. Take a look at different brands at a few different dealers and see what you like. I don't think you'll find a new ATV with a manual lever for 4WD, I'm pretty sure they all have a switch.

My personal choice would probably be the Polaris Sportsman 500. It's the best selling ATV in the history of ATVs, and for good reason. It's a proven reliable machine at a great price. Hands down the best bang for the buck of any ATV out there IMO.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebgP8Z0nB0U&feature=youtube_gdata_player

 

[live_to_hunt]

I have a 2007 Suzuki Eiger its a 400 its been perfect I use it alot. I have a 2008 Sporstman 400 its strong but its a pain. Stupid things always break. In the cold its tough to warm up. When its time for me I will buy Suzuki again with out hesitation.

 

[04SE]

I have decided to get the new Arctic Cat 500 core. It has a Kymco 450 in it and seems to be a pretty good value when compared to other brands.

 

[fxrider]

Should have bought a Polaris 800 Sportsman for $5,999 http://www.gregorypolaris.com/

 

[ridgerunner]

I had a Cat 650 and broke the frame underneath the seat. The handling was poor with lots of understeer. Owned and ridden MANY utility quads and Cat would be at the bottom of my list JMO. Polaris, Yamaha, CanAm, Suzuki, and Honda all have great quads to choose from. I'd start with those.