2008 ATV Buyers Guide

Kymco
Kymco's MXU 500 ($6499) is now available in True Timber Concealed Green Camo. The shift-on-demand four-wheel-drive MXU 500 features a four-stroke, double overhead cam, 499cc engine with shaft drive and KYMCO's dual-range CVT transmission. Digital instrumentation, disc brakes, front and rear cargo racks, and a half-ton towing capacity are all standard. Kymco; 864/327-4744.

Polaris
The Polaris Sportsman 800 EFI Touring ($9299) has plenty of power to climb hills. It now has active descent control that works with engine braking for downhill control. Designed specifically for two-up riding, the Touring has a longer wheelbase, shock angles, well-placed handholds, foot rests, and drink holders. On-demand all-wheel drive and 25-inch tires combine for all-terrain performance. Polaris; 800/765-2747.

Suzuki
The KingQuad 750 AXi's ($7599) 695cc, DOHC, single-cylinder is mated to a QuadMatic CVT-type automatic transmission. The handlebar-mounted pushbutton controls allow the rider to easily select the right setting for any traction condition: 2WD, 4WD, and diff-lock 4WD. Independent front double A-arms and rear I-beam suspension feature preload adjustment. High-output magneto generator system and large 18-amp maintenance-free battery provide extra power for cold-weather starts and additional electrical accessories. It has easy-to-read LCD instrument panels and a polyethylene skidplate for underside protection with minimal resistance over rocks and rough terrain. Suzuki; 800/828-7433.

Motorcycles

Honda
The Honda CRF450R ($7199) offers the Honda Progressive Steering Damper, a new application of steering damper technology designed specifically to augment more aggressive steering characteristics. Quicker turning, higher cornering speeds, and an unprecedented planted feeling in corners are some of the perks. The CRF450R sports new, lighter CDI with three gear specific ignition maps for optimum traction and overdelivery. New engine mods include a tapered exhaust head pipe for better low- and midrange power. Works-type brake rotors reduce unsprung weight, while revised fork settings yield a more sophisticated action and revised settings in the rear shock complement changes to the fork. Honda; 866/784-1870.

Kawasaki
The Kawasaki KX250 ($6099) features a 249cc, liquid-cooled, four-valve, DOHC four-stroke that delivers a wide powerband. The polished intake ports improve intake flow to the ultralight thin-stem titanium valves, while the mixture is ignited via a K-TRIC digital ignition system to maximize top-end and over-rev. The bike's frame is constructed of an all-aluminum perimeter with composite structure utilizing forged, extruded, and cast components. Showa twin-chamber fork keeps oil and air in separate chambers for stable damping performance reliability. The rear suspension uses revised Showa shocks, which raise ride height for quicker turns and improved bottoming resistance. Kawasaki; 800/661-7433.

Yamaha
The Yamaha YZ450F's ($7099) five-titanium-valved 449cc DOHC liquid-cooled four-stroke sports new engine refinements. Revised intake ports and intake and exhaust cams, titanium exhaust header, and the first punch-cone muffler on a production bike are a few of the changes. Minor modifications to the aluminum frame and suspension improve handling and feel. The bike has ProTaper aluminum handlebar, titanium shock spring, gripper seat, and wheel rims. Yamaha; 800/962-7926.

Suzuki
The Suzuki DR650SE's ($5099) 644cc, four-stroke, single cylinder, SOHC, four-valve engine, tuned for low- and midrange torque, is mounted to a wide-ratio five-speed transmission. The digitally controlled DC-CDI ignition system, used for accurate ignition timing and more consistent spark, works with a 40mm Mikuni Slingshot carburetor. The lightweight, compact frame features adjustable seat positioning. The front fork uses a combination of conventional and inverted designs and the bike has a preload-adjustable rear link-type suspension. Suzuki; 800/828-7433.

Side-by-Sides

Artic Cat
The Arctic Cat Prowler XTX 700 H1 EFI ($10,999) side-by-side has a new engine, and improves on the smaller 650 version with electronic fuel injection, noise reduction, tilt steering wheel, lower seat, and "static sag" for cornering stability. Arctic Cat designed this model for quick acceleration, cornering and agility, and rough-trail handling. A rearview mirror, large dump bed (tilt box), 12.5 inches of ground clearance, auto CVT with engine braking, and pushbutton 4WD with locking diff add to the Prowler's appeal. Arctic Cat; 218/681-9851.

Kawasaki
Kawasaki's Teryx ($9799) side-by-side is fast and agile, yet can carry 500 pounds of gear and tow up to 1300 pounds. Powered by a modified version of the Brute Force 750 V-twin, the Teryx 4x4 employs a dual-range CVT. It also comes with an ROPS-certified rollcage, 26-inch Maxxis tires, eight-gallon fuel tank, and cargo net. The base model is available in Hardwoods HD camo, and a special NRA Outdoors model features Realtree APG HD camo, hard top, and dual gun scabbards. Kawasaki; 800/661-7433.

Polaris
The Polaris Ranger RZR ($10,299) was built from the ground up as a performance side-by-side, which uses an 800 EFI midengine design. It boasts adjustable seats, steering wheel, and passenger-side grab bar. The power-to-weight ratio makes the RZR quick, but IRS, on-demand true 4WD, and 10 inches of ground clearance make it trail capable. The narrow stance allows it to fit on a quad track. The composite cargo box is equipped with Polaris' Lock & Ride system and can haul 300 pounds. Polaris; 800/765-2747.