Well I did the unthinkable sold my 98 foreman, hadn't planned to but a buddies brother has been looking and offered me a deal that I just could not find a way to say NO!! So I am in the market for the first time in a few years for new Quad..I still might try to find a good shape newer/used 450 S. Before you suggest anything I am looking at a HONDA or a Honda that's it..lol! I went to the dealership to look at the 05's and realized I might be a bit out of the loop in terms of technology. I came away with some question but kind of liked 1 model if only b/c it is what I know. That model being 500 Foreman S/Manual 5 gear. One question is the button shift? I was thinking foot again mostly based on experience but started to think the finger button shift might make it easier for the wife/kids/others to drive it. Anybody have any opinions on this feature? I noticed that a lip home feature is included, so if the shifting was gone via button one wouldn't be broke down in the boones! Cost difference up front is minimal, but what about long term? Any experience or opinions are welcomed!

Ok now to the auto shift models, it appears like others this the way honda is heading, albeit in their own design which I would think and have read is far superior to the belt drive models. I have experience with an auto (polaris sporstman so not apples to apples) but I have always found great for riding, light duty but not so great for heavy dragging, etc. The sales dude said the Hondas design robs some HP to achieve the tranny results & even the larger cc'd engines will not match the true manual 5 of the 500 S. This is sort of contrary to what I have read or believed...so I ask what up and any thoughts on Auto vs manual in the new Hondas please let her rip. Also those who have the heavier autos are you going with 3000lbs winchs? What about the electronic/gauges, do you all have windsheilds or some sort of roll bar to protect this very out in open expensive piece of plastic?

My main concern is for hunting (Moose/Elk/Bear is the prime concern for pulling power) and working around the cabin (sand and rock hauling).

Any other info like model, uses,experiences and so forth please share.

Thanks in advance!

PS: price info would be appreciated as well. This dealership is never been known to give the best deals so chances are I will buy elsewhere but seeing the only full line Honda ATV dealer in town a place to window shop! He quoted me 10K canadian taxes in for 500S push botton shift with 2500 warn installed and swap out factories tires for more aggressive/costly tires (haven't deceided which ones I have Kenda BC's on both my quads and have been pleased so might just stick with them they were I think $65 additonal a corner over the factories, so not the most expensive but certainly not the cheapest either!)