So, looking to see if a few of you can help share some of your expertise with general recommendations since I am a UTV/ATV noob. In about 6 months I will be looking to buy an atv, most likely used via private party. I am doing a bunch of online research but continually run into a lot of "what I bought is the best" mentality. In my area, it seems that right now is not the best time to buy used as hunting season is quickly approaching as well as winter. I also want additional "disposable" cash for the purchase.
Primary use for this machine will be utility, snow plow and towing using a rough-cut mowing deck on my property. Mowing deck will probably only be used twice a summer. Property is not huge but big enough for a riding mower and there is some off-camber sections but nothing significant. Area to be plowed is relatively flat but the bigger issue is right now it takes a while with my snow thrower. I figure if I buy the right machine and accessories, should help minimize time spent plowing/mowing. Using it for jeep trails/exploring will be something I would like to do but is not the priority (have to remember justification for the wife
๐ ). My house is at just under 8k ft. elevation and jeep trail elevations would exceed 11,500 ft.
I'd like to limit my budget at $6k. I also understand that it is recommended for plowing, to try and purchase a 500 (+) and make sure 4x4 is at least available. Obviously I would be looking for an utility model and not a sport model. Reliability is another priority. So, insight into different options and models are something I am asking about. I do understand FI and power steering might be nice but the cost starts going up for those options. Are they worth it and/or really needed are just some questions below:
FI?
PS?
Factory or aftermarket winch (for slow plow)?
Snow plow type recommendations?
At what point is mileage/hours an issue for reliability (if history for proper service has been followed)?
Used models that seem to come up and appear reliable, based upon noob research:
Honda Foreman
Yamaha Grizzly
Looking for additional model recommendations, thx.
I love me some land yachting