Does anyone know anything about the ATV's that Tractor Supply sells as to quality and such? I think the brand name is Manco
I don't know about the current ATVs, but I believe Manco started out as a supplier of go-kart kits and parts. They have been around a long time I believe.
Dave
Only thing I'd worry about is when it breaks, who does the repair work? Our local TS sells 'em, and I have looked them over and decided that to me, they looked "cheap". For the same price you can probably get a really nice 2- or 3-year old "name brand" ATV at a local dealer, something with 200 hours on it, and be much better off. Manco's website doesn't tell you much. On the positive side, they do have a long history of small-scale motorsports products.
You generally get what you pay for! I like honda and I have had them all over the years.
Stonebroke
Get an older, used but not abused Honda. They seem to last really well.
Ditto all the above. It's a nice thought (cheap, products) but you'll end up short in the long run.
Reid
We had 2 Manco Dingo go carts, bought them used, kids raced them around for years, sold them for almost what I'd paid for them. If the atv's are as good as the karts, I wouldn't have a problem buying one. Pretty sure they're made in the USA.
One issue I think they would have is the 260cc Motor is too small.
I don't think it would handle long distance riding we do.
My nephew's 350 Yamaha winds out with him trying to keep up and we aren't going fast.
The Manco is as Big as my Suzuki Vinson 500 with half the motor. I can't see that happenin'. :)
For the putsing I do in the woods, I would think about one.
They look like a copy of a old polaris. There was not much to go wrong on them.
But I agree if you are planning on railing the trails hard, might not keep up well with the larger machines.
Funny thing I had a lot of 200cc 3 wheelers, worked great for me.
Now if it is not 700cc's it a baby.
I looked at the Manco's today and agree with what Norm said. They just seem to look real cheap. I may have to start thinking about getting rid of my old hobby toys in order to get something like an ATV to work with and enjoy on the new hobby, the property. I hate to think about getting rid of my hit and miss's and the drag saw but it dont make sense to keep them around when I dont have time to show them and the money could go towards a quad. :-\
Bought a Polaris 2x4 about 15 years ago. Could go down to the barn and she'll start right up to run me back to the lake no problem.
That CVT is smooth. Get too much juice too quick on some hi-power 4x4 - you'll get hurt. Look to buy an old one from an old guy who took it easy and you'll get a lot of value for a low investment.
Same as tractors, Jeff. What's the perfect vintage? Not real old and not real new, right? ;)
Now that this thread is shifting direction I am going to put in my .02, HONDA!
Dave
I have gone there and back. My ATV is a 6 cylinder, 3.0 liter, 4wd, heated, wonder buggy! OK a 2002 Isuzu Rodeo. $500! Another 120 odd dollars into air filter, a few wires, used gas tank, and oil and fuel filters. Dont have registration, dont have insurance. I only drive it through the woods, use it like an ATV, seats 4 people. If I get lonely, I can turn on the AM/FM radio. As of now it still has the top, doors, windows, as soon as I get a lean-to built, the sawzall is getting a work out and the rodeo is going topless! I can sell all the glass and doors for more that I paid for the thing. I dont want to sit on wet seats, so I havent modified it yet.
I weighed all the benefits of a quad, the costs, ($6000 for a new quad!) what it can actually pull, engine size, the expensive tires, and figured I could do something better. I wanted a Geo/Chevy tracker, but they are hard to find in decent shape in MI, and at a great expense. NICE lil trucks to bang around the bush and still better than a quad. When the rodeo came up I figured I would give it a try. Still Bigger than what I really want, but it pulls the firewood out better than any 300 cc quad ever could.
go through a mud hole a few times on a quad, the go through in a lil truck, you'll appreciate the difference.
If you have to get a quad, the hondas are very good. I prefer a polaris, with the transmission that works like a snowmobile, that way anubody that shows up is able to drive the thing. But, you have to be careful pulling any real weight with the belt drive.
My idea of the ideal ATV is a JD Gator HPX Diesel. Don't own one yet but I've sure driven 'em around a lot, and they are fun woods buggys.
I will put my two pennys in here too ;D Hondas are good bikes . A lot of them around , I have a fourtrax 350 , ya its an oldy 1986 ;)
8) 8) So what do you plan on doing with the bike .. that will help all of us decide what you should get . ;D :)
Engineer,
I am hopefully trading my used HPX gasser for a used HPX diesel this week or next. Both came from my dealer, but were originally owned by my buddy (he needs NEW toys). I upgraded to 12" rims and Goodyear "Runflats" Expensive tire but OHHH nice. I thought I would have to run my old 10" tires with chains this winter for plowing, but even though the runflat is an aggressive mud tire it did outstanding in the snow (I have no clue why). I have a 6 1/2' Meyer power angling plow custom fitted to the front. I have custom racks ON the HPX for 11' logs, and pull a custom log arch on the back. At first I thought I had made a mistake with buying a Gator, after looking and relooking, NO MISTAKE. It is my work horse, used for business and farm use. It won't go over 25 mph, but I don't want to go faster. I have visited ALL the dealers, the only thing out there that I regret not having is power steering (Kubota). The NEW Gator top of the line (UTV or some such acronim) has my same 12" rim and independent rear suspension, for my heavily loaded use the independent rear suspension would be tippy (My dealer even told me this) on off angle areas while heavily loaded. So, hopefully I will ppick up my diesel next week and change everything over. I don't plan on any upgrade for the next 20 years.
I have a friend with a little Suzuki, or Geo custoomized for woods work and if the choice is something bigger they can be an affordable option.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11262/OGator2.jpg)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11262/OGator3.jpg)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11262/OGator1.jpg)
Reid
I've had Yamaha three- wheeler,Honda TRX250,two wheel drive, four -wheeler,Polaris Sportsman 400 and 500. The smaller four- wheeler is less tiresome to ride and if you get it stuck is much easier to get out. The speed on the ones I had are not enough to fuss about. The Yamaha and the Honda ran 55mph on a hard surface with the tires tight,and the polaris were around 60mph. I had less trouble with the Honda and the Yamaha. The heaver the machine the better the ride. I guess there is none perfect! Just my two cents............
This is the only way to go if you want to be in style!
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/12348/Takoda%20CTR%20resized.jpg)
I've got a 250 Honda Recon 2wd. It works for me. I use it for running around the farm when the truck isn't required. It's considerably more efficient. I've got a 25 gallon sprayer mounted on the back rack too. It'll spray 30'wide and also has a hand wand for spot spraying. 8) 8)
Robert R.
I saved the life of one of those TWICE this winter with the crane on the back of my truck, The 39 year old girl couldn't get herself up off the ground, first in her stall (had to winch her out, then lift her). The second time in the arena. I perfer passionate horse women, keep the horses elsewhere. My equipment requires oil changes and fuel. If I lived in Wyoming I would HAVE to have a horse. I live in Pa.
;D Reid
Robert, nice transportation (and I can relate!)
The one advantage that a 4 wheeler has over a horse... if you get hard up on bucks, the 4 wheeler can stay parked in the garage and your expenditures drop to zilch. Sure can't say the same for the hayburners...
Scott
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/13296/Laureen%26Scott3.jpg)
The Gator style is something that is easy to step into (and step out of), and don't have to throw a leg over. Good seat with back rest too. I find mine pretty handy and it goes plenty fast. Also, the dump box is great for carrying tools and for dumping brush, debris, etc that accumulates. I'd opt for the 4x4 HPX style if I ever upgrade. There are others besides Deere.
Lots of options. But whatever ya like...... ;D
scsmith42
Them's some powerful lookin ponies. :)
This is what you need Jeff. 8)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/12998/rhino.jpg)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/12998/rhino%26%20arch.jpg)
Fun and work 8)
As far as work goes, the Gator and the Mule are better geared towards working, but that is if you are on fairly gentle ground. Both are rough terrain vehicles, but are no way All Terrain Vehicles. The Yamaha is an all terrain hill and rock crawler, and goes faster than the rest, about 41mph, but for a couple hundred bucks you can choose from a number of after market cdi boxes for the Yamaha Rhino that will get you closer to 60MPH. As a matter of fact you could spend your lifes savings on after market accesories for the Rhino. I can pull 16' logs all day long with mine, and my log arch, as long as they are under 25" in diameter to fit in the arch. I moved a 42" x 16 foot sugar pine up a hill to position it better for the mill, with just a chain. It has lockers all the way around, I also have a 72" plow with a 12 volt actuator lift and down pressure. They are more expensive than an ATV, but more useful. They are also only 52" wide, barley wider than an atv. :)
any one use this site or know anything about it? I will be in the market for an ATV myself come June or early July. gave my notice at work and to the apartment manager...I truely am headed to Ohio....
http://www.bestpriceatvs.com/
OK, I'll be the spoil sport and toss this out. ;)
Are you sure an ATV is the right machine for the tasks at hand? I can't imagine owning a large tract of land that needs cleaning up and not own a tractor. Sure, they're not as fun on off time or on hunting expeditions, but they're more effecient at chores like hard mowing, heavy pulling, lifting, etc.
Actually, I'm just jealous. I'd love a quad runner but can't justify it.......yet. ;D
Brad ,
You are right about having a tractor around ,but he has a cedar swamp , wich relates to wet and wetter . He is looking into the atv to get around in there and keeping a low impact on the environment .
I beleive that he should be looking into getting both . ;) ... Both would come in handy in there. I would wait tillI was there on a more permanent way to get a tractor up there , it would bea big asset when building time come around .
Marcel...You are a very intelligent man.... ;) ;) ;)
That's exactly what I was gonna say...... :D :D :D
Thanks , but I got to admit to being called other wise a few times :-X :D :D
Check out the Polaris Ranger 6 wheeler too. It's the only vehicle on my farm that has never gotten stuck, and that's saying a lot...
Ranked very high in terms of towing capacity (1,750 lbs as I recall), it has a two cylinder fuel injected motor, all 6 tires pull when you engage the electric AWD, and a 45mph top speed.
Optional cab, optional glass winshield with wipers, steel roof, etc - these things are made to work.
Dump bed on the back is standard, along with a Reese hitch.
If I had a choice between a 4 wheeler and a Ranger, and could only have one, I'd go with the Ranger.
One benefit of the 4 wheeler is that it is a little more maneuverable in tight environments.
Enjoy!
Scott
Only thing I don't care for on the Ranger and a couple others is that you sit way up high, not down low like a Gator. I get nervous on a high seat, especially on slopes.
The Ranger has a bench seat that goes over the top of the engine, even a quad puts you up there. The Yamaha Rhino puts you down next to the side of the engine.
All right, now that this has shifted away from ATVs, how about the Kubota RTV? It is more machine for the money than anything in its class. Wait, there isn't anything in its class.
Dave
Budget is a big concern here. :-\ Actually, we did have a tractor picked out to begin with but after touring around on the property for a day with Jeremy and Greg and throwing ideas around, and knowing that Greg is thee go to guy for anything regarding tractors, and his opinion changing from tractor to ATV, I think ATV is the way to go for several reasons. Marcel's in the biggest. Low impact. I want to put as small of a footprint on this land as possible. I want it to stay what it has been. However, I want to still utilize some of its resources to create a way for me to exist with it, and on it. The other reason for the ATV is that this area surrounding us is a paradise for them. Many, many maintained trails and trail heads right at our feet where we can use them to hunt and fish or just site see or even visit neighbors..
I was helping a friend clear a downed burr oak out of a creek bottom. We hooked the 4x4 kubota to it and couldnt get enough traction to drag it up the hill. I suggested we get the ATV and hook it on too to see if we could get it to move. We chained it to the ATV and before i could get the slack out of the chain on the tractor the ATV was taking that log up the hill. unhooked the tractor and that 650 sportsman pulled it around like nothing. WOuldnt have believed it if i wasnt there to see it. Still cant figure out why the ATV would have better traction than the kubota.
Kubota RTV is nice, but make no mistake about it, there are a bunch of machines IN it's class and several better. Including the Ranger Scott talked about, one of my clients has two of the 6 wheel Rangers to move sugar from the sugar bush in the mountains. Don't be a brand snob, Mr Shepard.
Reid
about a month ago I bought a cub cadet, 20hp,760cc cat d. It is the only way we can feed cattle..It has rained or snowed all winter. I have lost 23 calves so far and it going to snow 3 inches tonight...I may go to Fl next winter and off bear for Tom. I really love this atv, I looked at JD but liked cadet better 8)
I've just wasted half my afternoon on a ton of research, and boy do I like that Yamaha Rhino. I guess I've got to head out to the Yama dealer and see one. My JD dealer won't talk to me anymore if I get one, but they look like the perfect machine for what I'd want.
Holy Smokes, Scott. What are those things. My guess is QHs with double Impressive breeding? Sure make mine look like puny things.
Robert , Those cant be Quarter horse ... there more like Six Quarter horse There big . !!
Plus, ya gotta have sumpthin to drag an arch around eh? smiley_idea
4 Wheeling is one of the reasons why I want to move back north. ;D
Engineer,
The Rhino is a really SUPPED up UTV. Fast, furious, and made for pleasure riding.
The Rhino has quite a following among the go-fast crowd. It seems t obe a downsized dune buggy to me. Things evidentally really go like H%$L. There is a ton of aftermarket parts for them as the go-fast crowd loves to spend money to go faster. Check out www.ridesidebyside.com This guy (Todd, of Hunterworks) downsouth has all kinds of cool aftermarket parts and accessories. He develops alot of them himself. I have developed alot of functional parts for my machine on my own, he says there isn't enough market in the HPX's to him to bother. The forum is a good place to get inside scoop on querks of certain machines, SAY the deteriorating condition of a front universal of a RTV, which seems to be a design flaw issue.
Reid
Robert, the back of my dually has a sticker that says "Real horses weigh a ton"! Duke and Prince are actualy a ton and a quarter... apiece!
My wife looks like a little kid up on top of Duke. In reality, she's 5'7". Believe it or not, it is 6' from where her hand is resting to the ground.
The first time that we shod Duke, I wanted to compare his shoe to those used for the game of "Horseshoes". Duke's shoes completely circled the outside of a regulation horseshoe.
We obtained these two fellows from the NYPD. They were an experiment (failed) in extremely large (read intimidating) horses for crowd control. They are both full blood Percherons, police trained and all that good stuff, and they were selected in a large part for their attitude. They did not exhibit the typical "gentle draft horse" personality, but a much more dominating one.
Duke is 18.2 hands, 2,400 lbs, and we had to have his blankets custom made (something like a 110"). Prince is also 2,400 lbs, but only 17.2 and shorter (but stockier) than Duke.
Unfortunately for the PD - their experiment worked. In addition to intimidaing the general public, they intimidated the farrier, the vet, the stable help, and many of the officers. They got to the point where they were a liability, and the PD wanted to place them with someone that would devote the time to helping them work out their issues. For the two years that they were on the beat in New York City, they either lived in a 14' square stall, were in a 20 x 40 turnout, or were being ridden, and basically they had forgotten what it was like to just be a horse.
During a visit to NY, we heard about them from some friends on Long Island, and stopped by to see them on our way home. I really fell for them. The rest was a matter of convincing the PD that we'd be the right people to help turn them around, and getting the checkbook out! Took a few months, but we prevailed in the end.
We got them back to NC and worked with them for a couple of years to teach them how to be horses again, instead of bullies. After turning them around, we placed them with a couple in Missouri, and they absolutely love them. I do miss them; as it was a blast to ride them (towering about a foot above the other riders). The only things that I don't miss are the hip cramps from riding them and the hay bills - they'd go through a 600 lb round bale in a week and a half!
Scott
I never think heavy horses when I see someone on one. I've ridden Molly a couple times but find my appy much more comfortable to sit across. I remember reading something once about that experiment. My Belgians only weigh about 1600 or 1700 a piece. I've one QH that weighs 1400. The rest of mine probably don't top 1,000. Most folks think their horses weigh more than they do but I bet you are right on with those weights. I looked briefly at a black Percheron over 18 hands before I bought Molly and Ginger. I was impressed with him and had he had a team mate, I'd have probably bought him but I am glad I didn't. Wouldn't want to have to harness something that tall.
Do you have a spot where the oxygen masks drop down out of those monsters? I'd love to see more pics if you have them.
I have a Honda Rancher ATV and it fits my needs quite well. The tractor is used for the heavy work and the AVT makes a great toolbox. I put large baskets on both the front and back of mine and that was well worthwhile. Also use a sprayer on it with a 100 ft hose for spot spraying. It also makes a great fun vehicle when now working.
I have a Polaris atp works great. Just sold my big boss 6x6 to a farmer up the road. The 6x6 was a must when I built my camp, but time for something new and more dependable. Used atv's around here are plentifull, but if a kid touched it, don't buy it. especially if it was my kids. They can ruin a $5000. atv in 5.7 seconds. :o :o :o
I've got a small tractor which is fine on flat ground or out in the open but not of much use up the hillside and on narrow trails. Got a ATV a couple of years ago and use it almost every single day for one thing or another. Amazes me where it will go and has been just about trouble free.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/12858/Going%20logging%20004.jpg)
Quote from: johncinquo on April 12, 2007, 09:00:00 PM
If you have to get a quad, the hondas are very good. I prefer a polaris, with the transmission that works like a snowmobile, that way anubody that shows up is able to drive the thing. But, you have to be careful pulling any real weight with the belt drive.
We bought our Polaris (Sportsman 700) BECAUSE it is rated to tow more than any other ATV on the market - 1500lbs with a 200lb tongue weight.
She skids 16' 20"dia EWP all day long with no arch through mud.
The belt doesn't drive the wheels, like a snowmobile, it powers the transmission. The belt doesn't slip unless there's something wrong.
So, fear not towing with a Polaris. We looked at new ATVs when ours needed some work (first year of the model - now has upgraded electronics) and I'll tell you, the only reason people recommended the Hondas was something about reliability. I like having Park on my transmission. I like my gear shifter on the right. I like being able to start in any gear.
As for an ATV versus an uninspectable road vehicle - they are much narrower. They are designed to go in the woods and they'll fit and turn in much tighter spaces. I can do 360 deg. circle in about 12'.
Different wheelers use different 4wd configurations. I like Polaris versus Honda because I'm only stuck when all 4 wheels are spinning - not just three. I also have 11" of ground clearance which is good for clearing many stumps. You can get stuff to mount on the wheelers. Good for plowing up to about 12" of snow.
My favorite thing for our wheeler (besides the 3 point hitch and plow) is our trailer:
http://www.countrymanufacturing.com/wagons.htm
Carries all sorts of stuff (including hubby out of woods when he got injured) - nothing like an ATV ambulance. Carries my big timbers too!
Quote from: Onthesauk on April 14, 2007, 07:51:09 PM
I've got a small tractor which is fine on flat ground or out in the open but not of much use up the hillside and on narrow trails. Got a ATV a couple of years ago and use it almost every single day for one thing or another. Amazes me where it will go and has been just about trouble free.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/12858/Going%20logging%20004.jpg)
Your machine looks like the newer version of mine, a `98 Suzuki 500. I`ve got about 2700 miles on mine and the only complaint is that it is full time 4wd so the steering can be a little heavy at really low speeds. It`s truly impressive where I`ve been and what I`ve done with this machine. I`ve crossed many downed trees up to 16" or so in diameter going
uphill with this quad. It may not look pretty but the job gets done. ;D
Quote from: Dave Shepard on April 13, 2007, 11:16:17 AM
All right, now that this has shifted away from ATVs, how about the Kubota RTV? It is more machine for the money than anything in its class. Wait, there isn't anything in its class.
Dave
Quote from: Ironwood (Reid Crosby) on April 13, 2007, 03:41:24 PM
Kubota RTV is nice, but make no mistake about it, there are a bunch of machines IN it's class and several better. Including the Ranger Scott talked about, one of my clients has two of the 6 wheel Rangers to move sugar from the sugar bush in the mountains. Don't be a brand snob, Mr Shepard.
Reid
I can`t imagine that there would be anything in the same class as the `Bota given that the one I saw at a local sportsman`s show last year cost over
24 GRAND! Yeah it was a diesel and it was outfitted with all sorts of ersatz doodads but 24K? That`s insanity in my book, a guy can buy some real machinery for that kind of scratch. :o
The best off road vehical is the the Tool Cat, by Bobcat. It is 5400 lbs. 56 HP. $26-32,000. Envision, a heavy duty RTV / GATOR , which can use full size buckets and dozer blade. HEAVY DUTY to an amazing extent. A RTV/ GATOR can be acessorized to the N th degree. The heated cabs alone can be $5000. It can make sense for universities and such but not hte average user. http://www.bobcat.com/utility_machines/products
Reid
Jeff .. look for a good used bike , I would sugest a 4 wheel drive , one that the front end unlocks . That is if you plan on using this bike for any medium to long drives . That honda of mine is a good bike , but if I use it any for riding , it will tear my shoulder apart . My dad ownes an older Susuki 300 , its a smaller bike , but has the unlocking front end , independent front and rear suspention on it , It wont tow like those 15 or 20,000 $ machines ... but wit an arch I dont think theres anything on your property it wont haul out in logs . And you should be able to get one for a couple of grand or less .
Quote from: Ironwood (Reid Crosby) on April 15, 2007, 06:49:40 PM
The best off road vehical is the the Tool Cat, by Bobcat.
Reid
Yeah, these really are heavy duty, but cost alot of dough. I have friends that have one and I think they are far more usefull than the smaller skidsteers. They take all the attachmrnts the skidsteers take, plus it seats two sidexside, and they also have fourwheel steering. It works real good around their resort, but for the steep and rough terrain they have quads. The toolcat just can't go where a quad will go, or where my Rhino will go. Their quads are faster than my Rhino, but with twice the weight and a longer wheel base, my Rhino does much better in the mud/water and on the very steep slopes. It gets much better traction, and can pull more weight because of this. If it was just for fun I would buy a motorcycle, if it is for work and fun on extremely rough terrain I would get a rhino, If I only needed a utility vehicle around the farm or golf course, I'd get the Tool Cat. If I had a bunch of money, I'd buy all of them. ;D
If protecting the environment is a key consideration, check out a Rokon. It is a motorcycle, but two wheel drive and the tires are small tractor tires. It will also go places none of the 4 wheelers or 6 wheelers can even come close to. You can get a variety of atttachments for it. It commonly has a draw bar on it for towing.
Look at www.rokon.com, that is the company site. There is another site that offers a lot of information about them, but it is not affiliated in any way with the company: www.rokonworld.com.
Jim
I got to see one of those Tool Cats in action several weeks back.
Pretty nice machine! 8)
Thinking if it was me though, I'd rather have two seperate machines rather then a combo Tool Cat, but that's just me. :)
Furby, I'm with you. I looked at all of the various UTV's a few years ago, as well as the Toolcat. At the end of the day, I felt that I'd be better off buying a 6x6 Polaris Ranger and a used skid steer with low hours - that way I'd have two machines for the same $.
The toolcat is pretty heavy, versus the Ranger is light, so I also ended up with more versatility with two versus one.
Scott
It's all in what you want to do with it.....
If your planning on a lot of work UTV would be the way to go.
So work and some play....look at a liquid cooled ATV.
I have a Yamaha Grizzly 600, plenty of power, however she gets hot!!!!
I don't particularly care for the belt.....especially when you going down steep hills.
You have to stay on the throttle.
I would look for a 4x4 with in and out 4wd.
All the time 4x4 wears you out when you ride, your always fighting.
Just my $.02
I just got out of the woods. SNOW up there! Spent the entire day putting my "new to me" diesel HPX thru it's paces. I hauled 30 loads like this up thru the muck and slop (photos were taken early in the day, by days end you could hardly tell the colors ). I had pushed my gaser HPX but never to this extent. Off angle, over rocks, debris, trees, stumps, you name it. The arch is homemade and has skidsteer tires on it (a must around here, loads of sharp sapling stumps and rocks) I transfered all the goodies (custom hitches, removeable racks, plow/ winch mounts , rims/ tires) to the new one. I am running Goodyear Runfalts, (once you run these every other tire looks like a joke) excellent tire and if'in I get a flat halfway through my day I just keep working. They are 12" x 27" for more ground clearance. The landowner was watching us all day he came out this afternoon and kinda said "that thing is a real horse" I will try to remember to get a picture of the truck with all the logs on it tomorrow.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11262/OGator%40windmill1.jpg)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11262/OGator%40windmill2.jpg)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11262/OGator%40windmill3.jpg)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11262/OGator%40windmill4.jpg)
Reid
Nice lookin' setup Reid... ;) ;)
Must be some kinda special wood strapped on the "Horse", EH ???
Jeff,
Here are a few pics of my ATV , I have it ready for work , ;) and always ready for play .
Its a '86 Honda 350 4x4 , has canoe rack , serves as roll bar ::) trust me , very good to have . It has been tested and then some .
Ya get a plastic box , put some tools in and around , roll bar acts as a hoe holder .. that for getting the spring runoff off da road ... Also it makes for a great .22 rest , ;D
Front rack I use for putting the saws on , I did take that half plastic saw case off and made me a wooden box that will hold the two saws and the gun butt in place .
Have a two ton winch on da front, it could be a bit stronger , but it has a block , so it aint too bad , I have some prety neet tools in that box ;D Maybe take some pics tomorow . Some ya just might like to have . :) :P
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10487/20-avril1.jpg)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10487/20-avril.jpg)
It aint all that impresive , but I dont think it needs to be .
FDH,
The wood on the rack is knarly twisted cherry w/ the cambium half rotted off, AIN'T IT BEAUTIFUL. I always grab the stuff when I see it. I also found a 100 lb rock that looks like and anvil. Pretty neat.
ISAWLOGS,
What is the hose reel on the back for?
that roll /canoe bar looks serious. I need to build one for my "buggy" but it needs to modular and flipdown/ removeable. Big order, it will take some time.
Here are today's pictures. Much nicer day and we were in a really nice flat area w/ good access, just a TON of briars.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11262/OwindmillA.jpg)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11262/OwindmillB.jpg)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11262/owindmillC.jpg)
Reid
Reid ,
That , well its a 100 feet of braided kevlar rope , I use it to pull wood with a pully and thingy that is on the rope to remove the rope from the pully with out me getting off the bike ... Its one of those things I was going to take a pick of today .. that and a few more little helpers that reside in da box on da bike ;D but guess who forgot about that today . :-X
The rollbar canoe rack , If you look at the pic , just above the winch , on the tubes going down , there is a bolt on each side .. take the bolts out , front and back are same , and you take the bar/rack off , front and back bumpers are used to attache it . These tubes are not all that thick .. aint no nascar roll cage here ... :D But sturdy enough to with stand the weight of the bike on impact with the ground during a roll over ... Its been tried ... ::) Not my fault did it again ... ::) ::)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10487/20-avril1.jpg)
Reid ..
Nice set-up , now I have one for you .. Can you get some close-ups and more info on that hoist ya got on tha pick-up ... 8)
ISAWLOGS,
The last two days logs, today furniture wood. I am DRAGGING. Tomorrow, milling all day. I can't wait for Monday so I can begin it all over again!!! I think I have put 25 hours on the Gator in 3 days. LOOONG days when you count prep and unloading time.
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11262/OIMG_0177.jpg)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11262/OIMG_0182.jpg)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11262/OIMG_0178.jpg)
The crane is a 3200 # Venturo, electric over hydrualic. It would be the AutoCrane Equivalent of a 3205 (I think). The pictures are with one extension out, there is one more 6' extension still inside the upper part of the boom. I use use it ALL the time. Not just for wood/ logs but equipment, mechanical work etc... , I made a upper extension to set A/C unit and furnaces on 24' roofs (parapits can be high, the units are light). I need to make some outrigging points on the back of the bed. hopefully this summer I can pull the 5 ton Army bed off and do some customizing (no West Coast Choppers here, "chrome don't get you home")
Reid
IMHO one of the best ATV's for the money for woodlot work is a suzuki kingquad, 2004 and older. They're only 300cc but they've got a super low range and a manual front dif lock, they also weigh 600lbs just like the new ones(except polaris, they build really heavy atv's). They've also got real gears for fool proof engine breaking. The suspension has only 5" of travel so if you are going to do some trail riding with your buddies you'll be the last guy. On the other hand the atv is lower so its less tippy and you'll get used to cutting your stumps low.
Unless your woodlot is fairly flat and dry I'd stay away from the gator and the other side by side seat machines, they are wider, get hung up more and you can't manhandle them around if your in a mess...
An arch is a necessity for bigger sticks, I've hauled 1400lb ones on the flatter trails at my place.
I imagine you can find a used 2000ish one pretty cheap compared to a new manco and it will be a lot better.
Ian
Thanks everyone for your advice on this. I picked up my new ride in Munising Saturday. It belonged to an older gentleman that decided he wanted to upgrade to a rhino. I'm plenty happy with that decision as I got an unbeatable deal on his old ride. A 2005 650 Honda Rincon.
Black in color
4X4
Automatic
4000# factory installed winch with remote
windshield
mirror
racks
box on back
custom hitch
heated handle bars
mudder tires
crome rims
built in GPS and more!
I took a couple of pictures with my son on it before I left for my sisters and mothers day yesterday and today. I'm hoping it will be the perfect work horse and more. 8)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10001/rincon_2.jpg)
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10001/rincon_1.jpg)
That Rincon is a sweet ride. 8)
That is a bad ass machine right there. We have a friend that has a yeller one. :D
I think that 3 speed auto is a car transmission. ;D
I have a 2003 Rincon, you won't be dissappointed. Is it a 680cc EFI?
Dave
Nice machine 8) 8) 8) 8)
Nice ride!
We went into the honda dealer today to get an extra key made as we only got one. THe fellow that waited on us was the salesman that talked to us when we were kicking tires last month. I could tell he remembered us so I told him how we had found this via one of our forum members, that it belonged to one of his neighbors, what it included and then how much we paid for it. As soon as we told him his mouth dropped and the other guy as the counter turned around and told Tammy and I we should be ashamed of our selves for stealing the machine.
Ya gotta think we got a really good deal if ya get a reaction like that out of the local dealer. :) We made him feel a bit better by buying a helmet and telling him once our funds recovered that we probably would be looking for a second machine. ;D
Jeff, that thing looks sweet! Nice score!!!
Scott
jeff whats the weight on that honda ?
Jeff, since I didn't know, I looked it up and found all these specs along with the 600 lb weight. :)
2005 FourTrax Rincon/ FourTrax Rincon GPSCAPE
Model: TRX650FGA (with GPS)
Engine Type: 649cc liquid-cooled OHV semi-dry-sump longitudinally mounted single-cylinder four-stroke
Bore and Stroke: 100.0mm x 82.6mm
Carburetion: 37mm CV
Ignition: CD with electronic advance
Starter: Electric with auxiliary recoil
Transmission: Automatic with hydraulic torque converter, three forward gears, reverse, and electronic controls
Driveline: Direct front and rear drive-shafts with torque-sensitive front differential
Front Suspension: Independent double-wishbone; 6.9 inches travel
Rear Suspension: Independent double-wishbone; 8.0 inches travel
Front Brakes: Triple-sealed hydraulic drum
Rear Brakes: Single hydraulic disc
Front Tires: 25 x 8-12 radial
Rear Tires: 25 x 10-12 radial
Length: 83.7 inches
Width: 46.1 inches
Height: 47.5 inches
Seat Height: 34.5 inches
Ground Clearance: 10.0 inches
Wheelbase: 50.8 inches
Turning Radius: 10.8 feet
Dry Weight: 600 pounds
Fuel Capacity: 4.5 gallons, including 1.0-gallon reserve
Color: Black
Great catch!
I've been looking myself for one. You done good!
thanks jeff nice ride & 100lbs lighter than my polaris 500 8)
;) smiley_hellow_im_here smiley_big-grin2
Nailhead is my "connection" :D :)
Thanks again Pat. :)
Well, um, AH HUMMM.. :-[
I got stopped by Mr. State policeman on my new quad yesterday. yikes_smiley bike_rider move_it smiley_hardhat smiley_contract_point no_no smiley_smug01
Did he give you a ticket ???
'Fess up ;D
Nope. No ticket. :)
I came out of the woods and was going down the road hauling some birch firewood. I was hotter then all get out so I decided not to put my helmet on. I picked the only time in a week that he came down North Caribou that I know of. :D
He came up slow behind me and I slowed to a stop. He says "You got a helmet in that box?" I said, "Yep, I sure do". He says, "Well, I know its hot, but since I saw ya, ya better put it on". :D
I says, "Yes sir, I'll do that!" He saluted me and drove on down the road. :D
Wonder if you would get a ticket for pulling this? :D
(https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/13635/MultiPurposeATV%7E0.jpg)
Anybody had experience with a Yamaha Timberwolf 250? I am going to look at one, a 1994 vintage, on Sunday. It's a 4x4 with only 100 hours. I don't have any experience with ATV's, don't know what to look for. It's gonna be used for work, not play.
Might go look at the forums on ATV Connection.com Lot of kids on there but have forums for most brand names and you can search by model. My first thought is that for work, 250 isn't really big enough unless it's just getting you from here to there.
Hey there Engineer, I had the same bike your looking at, a '94 4x4 timberwolf. I used mine for hunting and had good luck with it for that. It would follow the Honda 300's and the like but it was lacking a little on power in comparison. I would always be in a gear lower it seemed and the top end wouldnt keep up with them as well. I'm sorry to get posted so late, I see your looking at it today.
Thanks for the feedback. I looked at it, it was nice but not nice enough. I passed.
I'm gonna look for something 2-3 years old and in the 500+ class. Also maybe a Gator.
Good, that would have been my recomendation as a work machine. It was low on power work wise.
Good luck on Gator , I have no experience with them.
Engineer,
Two notes on HPX's. In 2005 they had a smaller diesel and no locking FRONT differential. If you can find a 2006 or newer it will have a LOCKING front diff. You can tell because there is a electric switch on the dash for it. The newer diesel is about 80cc bigger, like 845 vs. 780 (or something). The mech at my dealer REALLY liked the older one and said the "jury was still out on the new one". Both are dependable Yanmar's but he said the bigger one is so new that there isn't much data out there oin them. Stay away from the carborated 620cc Kawasaki gasser HPX. They/ I had a ton of trouble getting them to behave properly, mine was pumping gas into the crankcase and it had ALL of the updates on it. They have since fuel injected them. 8!@#%^&* should have taken mine back to thte factory, everything else was OUTSTANDING. Just the engine sucked. GO DIESEL!! I have since upgraded to a 2005 diesel HPX. IT was such an improvement, no sneezing or cold start issues. Even my thrifty wife said it was a smart move (that's alot coming from her). If you are hauling HEAVY avoid the new UTV Gator as the rear independent suspension while smoother riding, and more ground clearance, it is more "MUSHY" on off angles with a heavy, high load. I got alomst the same ground clearence with a tire/ rim upgrade to 12" rims and INCREDIBLE Goodyear Runflat tires. I know everyone has an opinion but for my business use and small farm utitlity I CANNOT beat this thing.
Reid (https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11262/OIMG_0344.jpg) (https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/11262/OIMG_0178.jpg)
Did I say heavy high load?
You can ride a ATV down,beside the road in MI? Did not know that a helmet is the law too.Might be the law here too,but I see many with no helmet.ATV are allowed beside the roads here,but only in certain cases that has been OK'ed by the state.Like to go from one trail to another.There is one place that I know of they can cross a bridge,but they have to use the sidewalk.This is a old railroad right of way.The tracks are torn up.Not many trails around now to ride on.Now all ATV riders have to get written premission from every land owner to ride on thier land.They do go up and down the dirt road here to get to the paper company land.Not alot,a group every week or two.
You can ride the ATV beside the road in the U.P., but not along state roads. The Lower peninsula it is not allowed, yet. Only on designated ORV trails or on private property. As far as I know, helmets are even required on private land, but I dont think they enforce that.
Enforcing helmet laws on private land would be difficult at best but liability might be an issue if anyone other than immediate family gets hurt.
Maine doesn't enforce Helmet laws except for under 16 years old I believe.
There is a law on the books that releases Land Owners from liability and Lawsuits for allowing Trail riding or the trail through their property if the ATV'er gets hurt. I think they increased being able to ride on the right side of the road to 500 yards from last years 300 yards to get to a trail. As long as you are on the Club Trail you do not have to ask the landowner for permission, they have already givin it to the club. Of course, there are always a select few who could ruin it for everyone else.
I hate the helmet bit. You cant see jack with it on.
Ya could get a small beany cover , ya dont need to have a full face helmet for it to be legal ::) ;D
I prefer to ride without also except on the cold days when a Full face helmet makes riding possible. ;)
Ya mean when it gets way down in the 60's?
Yep, That would be cold fer me. :D