I never found that to be a problem. The switch is quick but to engage the locking diff which is another lever you really should be at a stop. When I am riding in soupy conditions, or in snow I keep mine in 4WD all the time. I bought my 450 KQ 2 years ago for less than 6K new. I use mine on the ice mostly and like the fact that it weighs only 600 pounds which is the standard for the jap bikes. The polaris weighs about 725 pounds but does have an excellent metal skid plate system which adds to the weight. I think the new Polaris bikes are good and wouldn't hesitate to buy one. The older ones were crap but the new bikes are good.