Forums36
Topics40,986
Posts558,204
Members18,514
|
Most Online3,612 Jan 10th, 2023
|
|
2 members (Knobber, Jward87),
784
guests, and
181
robots. |
Key:
Admin,
Global Mod,
Mod
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 3,135
Ambassador Lunker
|
OP
Ambassador Lunker
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 3,135 |
Guys I'm planning on getting a UTV this spring and have been researching what's available for 3 years, I would appreciate any and all info good or bad on any brands that you own or have experience with, the main use will be utility but also recreation, thanks.
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 6,980 Likes: 15
Ambassador Lunker
|
Ambassador Lunker
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 6,980 Likes: 15 |
I work on quite a few different brands, so I've seen just about every end of the spectrum. There are some light duty "offshore" versions available at big box home stores, parts availability can be an issue with those, and I have seen some drivetrain problems, probably caused by folks overloading them, as they are not as robust as the name brand models.
Hands down, the best built one I have dealt with personally would have to be the Kubotas. Three cylinder diesels, integrated automatic transaxles, (vs. the belt drive used on a lot of models),a host of options and accessories, and just plain built to last. Very rugged.
Personally, I own an older Kawasaki Mule, and I love it. 2 cylinder liquid cooled,4WD, high/low range, and locking differentials... it is as surefooted as a mountain goat, and works hard for me whenever I need it. I have a 6' snow blade for the front for winter chores, and a winch for warm weather activities. (cutting firewood, pulling logs) I use it to remove and install my floating dock, and I built a custom boat trailer to haul my 2-man plastic boat back and forth to my ponds. Is it as heavy as the Kubota? No.
I would recommend sticking with a known brand, whatever you decide.
"Forget pounds and ounces, I'm figuring displacement!"
If we accept that: MBG(+)FGSF(=)HBG(F1) And we surmise that: BG(>)HBG(F1) while GSF(<)HBG(F1) Would it hold true that: HBG(F1)(+)AM500(x)q.d.(=)1.5lbGRWT? PB answer: It depends.
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 3,544
Hall of Fame Lunker
|
Hall of Fame Lunker
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 3,544 |
Buddies got a Polaris ranger 800 loves it
I believe in catch and release. I catch then release to the grease.. BG. CSBG. LMB. HSB. RES.
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 13,762 Likes: 302
Moderator Ambassador Field Correspondent Hall of Fame 2014 Lunker
|
Moderator Ambassador Field Correspondent Hall of Fame 2014 Lunker
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 13,762 Likes: 302 |
I have a 4-seater Mule that can go to two seats and get an expanded bed.
No problems or dissatisfactions with it, but it's not fast.
Some of those other UTVs can really haul a$$.
Excerpt from Robert Crais' "The Monkey's Raincoat:" "She took another microscopic bite of her sandwich, then pushed it away. Maybe she absorbed nutrients from her surroundings."
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 3,135
Ambassador Lunker
|
OP
Ambassador Lunker
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 3,135 |
Thanks for your input sprkplug, I know someone with a kubota and yeah it's built like a tank but out of my price range, the mule is great but I need more ground clearance, very rocky and uneven ground here. Here's some of the things I would like to have, min. 10" GC, dump bed, 4x4 with Locking diff., FI nice but Carb. ok, doors, windshield, and roof. Do you have any experience with the ODES utv, they appear to make a strong reliable machine, especially the ODES Dominator.
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 74
|
Joined: Feb 2011
Posts: 74 |
I agree with sprkplug "I would recommend sticking with a known brand, whatever you decide". I own two Polaris Rangers, both are daily drivers and used for 90% utility and 10% pleasure. Very pleased with both.
Don't Analyze Your Pleasures!!!
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 5,713 Likes: 35
Administrator Lunker
|
Administrator Lunker
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 5,713 Likes: 35 |
Thanks for your input sprkplug, I know someone with a kubota and yeah it's built like a tank but out of my price range, the mule is great but I need more ground clearance, very rocky and uneven ground here. Here's some of the things I would like to have, min. 10" GC, dump bed, 4x4 with Locking diff., FI nice but Carb. ok, doors, windshield, and roof. Do you have any experience with the ODES utv, they appear to make a strong reliable machine, especially the ODES Dominator. My Mule meets all those criteria except the doors. I put a lift kit and custom wheels and tires on mine. Serious ground clearance and pretty much unstoppable if you avoid the real idiot moves. I thought about trading for one of the fast ones, but after looking around I decided that the utility was more important (to me) than the speed.
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 951 Likes: 39
Ambassador Field Correspondent Lunker
|
Ambassador Field Correspondent Lunker
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 951 Likes: 39 |
We went through the same decision process several years ago. It is like the big LMB or big BG decision. Do you want utility or sport or something in between. The Kubotas, John Deeres, Rangers, and Hondas are pretty far towards the utility. The Razors and couple others are pretty far toward the sport. We went with the Rhino as a compromise. I'm not a big fan of the speed delimiter and it is definitely a compromise; but it was probably the best one at the time for us. Considering the same thing today, we'd probably go with the Cam Am Commander. http://www.utvguide.net/can_am_commander_1000.htm
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 3,135
Ambassador Lunker
|
OP
Ambassador Lunker
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 3,135 |
Yeah I'm not looking for a hot rod, a tough, reliable machine is the main thing, of course keeping the price down is always a plus.
Keep the suggestions and experiences coming, thanx.
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 28,565 Likes: 850
Moderator Ambassador Field Correspondent Lunker
|
Moderator Ambassador Field Correspondent Lunker
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 28,565 Likes: 850 |
Friz bought a side by side in 2011, I know he did a LOT of research before buying. I hope he sees this thread. He blames me for having to buy one. AP, what will be your intended uses for it? Fun, utility? What do you expect the machine to do for you? I also agree with sticking with a known brand. I don't know if you are the type of person who buys a vehicle/piece of equipment and keeps it until it's useful life is gone, or upgrade/change every few years. The known brand will probably save you $$ in the long run re: parts availability and longevity.
Last edited by esshup; 01/15/12 10:54 AM.
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 5,727 Likes: 285
Lunker
|
Lunker
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 5,727 Likes: 285 |
In my case, a compact utilty tractor offered greater utility with all of the carrying capacity of an UTV. No cab though.
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 3,135
Ambassador Lunker
|
OP
Ambassador Lunker
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 3,135 |
I sold my compact tractor so I could buy a UTV, my acreage is mostly too steep to safely use the tractor, especially to get to the back of the property. My needs are mostly for utility but also for some fun on the trails, can't do much with my old Suzuki ATV. From the info I've seen even the name brands have issues, it's a matter of finding the most bullit proof machine, with the most bang for the buck.
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 30
|
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 30 |
I've had a Yamaha Rhino for about 4 years now and love it (a 660 I think). I didn't do much research. I also beat the snot out of it skidding logs. I run chains on the rear tires year round. Bought a plow for it last year. That being said, I can see a back hoe / front end loader in my future :-) I've got 72 acres (plus the renovated pond) and the Rhino won't cut it when it comes to moving dirt.
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 72
Lunker
|
Lunker
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 72 |
I own the following two side-by-sides:
Kubota 1100 & Polaris RZR 800 EPS
Both are great machines in their own right.
If I need to work or if the weather is extreme, the Kubota 1100 is, hands down, the side-by-side of choice. (Factory-installed cabin, heat/AC …) As others have said before, it is the closest thing to a tank you can get as a side-by-side.
If I want to have fun or just cruise around, the Polaris RZR 800 EPS is, hands down, the side-by-side of choice. (Factory-installed power steering, 55 hp eager engine, just 50 inches wide …) It has fast & fun written all over it.
I hope this helps.
Regards, FRIZ P.S.: And as a rule, it is always ESSHUP’s fault.
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 6,980 Likes: 15
Ambassador Lunker
|
Ambassador Lunker
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 6,980 Likes: 15 |
The fuel injection is VERY nice, especially on a belt drive, or variable displacement torque converter, if you prefer. The carb models are extremely cold-natured. When you couple that with a very low idle speed, necessary for complete disengagement of a belt drive, then you can get a severe off idle stumble as the carb transitions off the idle circuit into the main. Increasing the idle speed will help, but then the belt drive doesn't want to disengage enough for smooth shifting, and there is a tendency to pull through the brakes.
Having fuel injection really makes for a better cold weather experience. I guess it comes down to spending more money for FI, or spending more time letting a carb equipped engine warm up.
AP, I haven't yet put a wrench to anything by ODES, although I looked at some at a trade show last fall. I believe they are a Chinese company, not saying that's good or bad, only restating my primary concern... parts and service availability. Make sure and put those two things right up at the top of your list of requirements.
The best machine out there will eventually require repair, and having a dealer, or at least a parts source close at hand, will make paying a little more now well worth it when that time comes.
"Forget pounds and ounces, I'm figuring displacement!"
If we accept that: MBG(+)FGSF(=)HBG(F1) And we surmise that: BG(>)HBG(F1) while GSF(<)HBG(F1) Would it hold true that: HBG(F1)(+)AM500(x)q.d.(=)1.5lbGRWT? PB answer: It depends.
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 28,565 Likes: 850
Moderator Ambassador Field Correspondent Lunker
|
Moderator Ambassador Field Correspondent Lunker
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 28,565 Likes: 850 |
P.S.: And as a rule, it is always ESSHUP’s fault. Just wait and see what you have to do after I take you and the family to the Sporting Clays range!
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 3,794
Lunker
|
Lunker
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 3,794 |
[quote=adirondack pond]Thanks for your input sprk quote]
My Mule meets all those criteria except the doors. I put a lift kit and custom wheels and tires on mine. Serious ground clearance and pretty much unstoppable if you avoid the real idiot moves.
I thought about trading for one of the fast ones, but after looking around I decided that the utility was more important (to me) than the speed. I'm with Dwight with the Mule - no doors needed in Texas... Mules are for work - not for speed ,,,
N.E. Texas 2 acre and 1/4 acre ponds Original george #173 (22 June 2002)
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 28,565 Likes: 850
Moderator Ambassador Field Correspondent Lunker
|
Moderator Ambassador Field Correspondent Lunker
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 28,565 Likes: 850 |
My 2-up machine has a carb., and I've been on the F.I. machines. (I have a Bombardier Traxter Max) If I had my choices, I would NOT go with a carb. for the usage that I get from mine. Cold blooded is 110% correct. I can't fire it up and just putt around. When I stop, it dies unless I pull out on the choke. Then, because the idle is higher, I can't shift from N to D without pushing the choke off.
A friend has a machine that is belt driven. He has burned thru a couple of belts planting his food plots. Mine is shaft driven, and I haven't had any problems.
One thing that concerns me about mine, is that the engine oil also lubricates the transmission......... I've never seen that before. But, I guess that if I keep the oil changed, then there shouldn't be any problems. The other downside is that the closest dealer is in Mi., a good 45 miles one way. (for oil and filters)
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 3,135
Ambassador Lunker
|
OP
Ambassador Lunker
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 3,135 |
Yeah FI is the best way to go but I can live with a carb, my big yamaha sled has 3 carbs and runs great, even my two 15 year old polaris's still run great, but FI would definitly be preferred in crispy weather, 18 below this morning with a high maybe of 3.
Last edited by adirondack pond; 01/15/12 12:54 PM.
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,948 Likes: 9
Moderator Lunker
|
Moderator Lunker
Joined: Feb 2006
Posts: 1,948 Likes: 9 |
AP,
Have you thought about going with a small SUV like a Suzuki Samurai or something similar? My dad sold our Rhino and bought a Samurai.
The price of a used Samurai will be half the cost of a new UTV, street legal, and is only about a foot wider than a Kawasaki Mule.
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 3,135
Ambassador Lunker
|
OP
Ambassador Lunker
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 3,135 |
AP,
Have you thought about going with a small SUV like a Suzuki Samurai or something similar? My dad sold our Rhino and bought a Samurai. That would be an option but my trails are narrow and heavily wooded, and I really don't want to buy used. Thanks for the suggestion though, probably great for people with more open land like you guys in Texas.
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 8,799 Likes: 69
Chairman, Pond Boss Legacy award; Moderator; field correspondent Lunker
|
Chairman, Pond Boss Legacy award; Moderator; field correspondent Lunker
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 8,799 Likes: 69 |
I have researched these for the last three years [talking to mechanics, posting on forums, etc.]looking for a combination of utility/power and performance - here's the models I narrowed it down to:
Kuboda - workhorse most dependable
Kaw Mule - also workhorse
Honda MUV - blend of fun and work
I think Can Am makes the best ATVs and I'll bet their UTV is amazing, too. I was told to keep away from Polaris, as their ATVs routinely have issues, yet read reviews and most are very favorable on the Ranger series, so I don't know what to believe.
Many men go fishing all of their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after. ~ Henry David Thoreau
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 5,713 Likes: 35
Administrator Lunker
|
Administrator Lunker
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 5,713 Likes: 35 |
I have researched these for the last three years [talking to mechanics, posting on forums, etc.]looking for a combination of utility/power and performance - here's the models I narrowed it down to:
Kuboda - workhorse most dependable
Kaw Mule - also workhorse
Honda MUV - blend of fun and work
I think Can Am makes the best ATVs and I'll bet their UTV is amazing, too. I was told to keep away from Polaris, as their ATVs routinely have issues, yet read reviews and most are very favorable on the Ranger series, so I don't know what to believe. 3 years is a long time looking. Money is for spending.
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 697
Hall of Fame Lunker
|
Hall of Fame Lunker
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 697 |
I have a 2008 Ranger Xp. I bought it because of the bench seat. I can get in it from either side and it holds the wife and 2 kids(under 5 yrs old).
It also had the best clearance,pulling and load capacities of its time.
Only problem I had was a broken piece in the front differential.You can replace it yourself if you can change the oil in a car/truck and its $100. Its from getting stuck in deep snow in 4 way lockup and 1 wheel grabs. I have put it through alot and it has happened but don't really blame the machine. They make an aluminium replacement to avoid this breaking.
I have never blown a belt and have done lots fo pulling work.
Very very happy with the ranger and it goes 50mph.
P.S 1 down side might be its 60 inches wide. Its very stable though and I have seen a arctic cat flip for no real good reason.
Last edited by blair5002; 01/15/12 02:45 PM.
"I think I have a nibble" Homer Simpson 34ac natural lake
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 28,565 Likes: 850
Moderator Ambassador Field Correspondent Lunker
|
Moderator Ambassador Field Correspondent Lunker
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 28,565 Likes: 850 |
TJ, with all the improvements they've been doing, you are going to have to start your research all over again after 3 years!
|
|
|
Moderated by Bill Cody, Bruce Condello, catmandoo, Chris Steelman, Dave Davidson1, esshup, ewest, FireIsHot, Omaha, Sunil, teehjaeh57
|
|