RE: Honda Foreman 4x4 / Rancher 4x4
TroopA, nothing wrong with 350 Rancher (manual) it will drag any deer or bear sized game with ease and allow you to haul decent weight trailer as well. Other than physical stature here are the difference I have collected since I am also looking for new ATV:
Rancher TRX350FM vs. Foreman S TRX500FM
Engine: 329cc vs 475cc
FT 4x4 vs. Selectable 2wd/4wd
Drum vs. Disc Front brakes
Rear Single shock vs Dual shocks
Grill lights only vs. Grill plus handle bar upper light
Ground Clearance 7.2 vs 7.5
Front Tires: 24x8x12 vs. 25x8x12
Rear tires: 24x9x11 vs. 25x10x12
Weight dry(lbs): 524 vs. 594
Fuel Tank: 3 gal vs. 4 gal
The biggest thing I can see in favour of the TRX500FM is dual rear shocks, disc front brakes and selectable 2wd/4wd. On side note the tires size of the Rancher, riding 2 ply factories here will leave you flat sooner rather than later so this is a big concern to me seeing the more aggressive aftermarket 6ply tires seem to be moving towards larger sized tires in particular now 26" is the norm. So you may have trouble finding replacement 6ply's or may require some modifcations to fit the larger tires in the future to the TRX350FM. (I don't know this for sure but maybe something you'd want to inquire about prior to buying, if this is a consideration for you personally). If you think you'll need the larger motor & slightly heavier dry weight of the Foreman S will prove its worth for heavy hauling or dragging duty.
Both good choices you just have to determine which one will be best for your needs now and future, then go with it and enjoy.
I just sold my 98 Foreman TRX400 manual, it rode like a tank but was built like one too. Good bike, really not much I couldn't do and have wondered if I made a mistake selling it! In my case nothing other than up keep or reg. wear n tear. My quads don't see lots of miles each year compared to others, but when then do they are often hard miles my theory is maintain them and they will return the favor to you!
Best of luck and test drive them to see which one you like!