Do 2WD ATVs provide sufficient traction for riding off the beaten path or should I go with a 4WD?

Thanks!

I would recommend getting a 4X4. Of course it depends on the terrain you'll be riding.I have a Polaris "Sportsman" 500 which is 4 WD.I've been in mud and if I didn't have the 4 WD I would have been stuck.One time even with the 4 WD I buried it and had to get a friend with his tractor to pull it out. The next week I had a Warn 2000 winch installed. Some models are or were full time 4 wheel drive.Mine is on demand which the 4 WD only kicks in when the rear wheels start to spin. I can keep it 2WD by shutting the switch off.Granted the 4x4's do cost more ,but unless you plan on staying on flat dry land I would spend the extra money.There are so many different makes , models and sizes to choose from. I'm sure you'll find one to fit your needs..
Good Luck on your selection.
Ruger Redhawk

..... A Proud NRA Life Member since 1977 .....Ruger Redhawk

4 wheel drive is nice to have, but when you get stuck your the one thats going to have to push that puppy out of the mud. There is alot of weight difference between 2 and 4 wheel drive. A 2 wheel drive will work just as good, the one thing that I would get wether you have 2-4 wheel drive is a good winch. They are worth there weight in gold. You can use a winch for more then just getting unstuck. If you shoot a deer and it goes over a bank you can always use a winch to pull it up to were you are. If there are trees in the way you can use the winch to move them enough to get by. When you do get your deer, and want to hang it the winch comes in pretty handy there also. I've even heard of guys useing there winch to skin a deer.

I have never had an issue with my 2WD....exceot when planting plots and pulling the harrows. The 4WD version my buddy has pulls much better (traction) and they are both 400's.

As far as getting stuck, for the most part I have never needed 4wd. I carry a little come along just in case, but have never used it.

Jim

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http://www.huntinginga.com

I have a Polaris 2x4 Mag , and I use a set of Vbar chains and I dont have any trouble in snow or mud . Just remember dont let off on the power!!!!! .

If you live around clay soil get the 4x4. I have pulled 2x4s up hills that weren't that big but were slick clay. I would definitely get the 4x as I have gone straight up mountains between the trees to get my elk and no way would a 2x have done it. I have a 95 Honda fourtrax so I can pull it back & forth enough to get out of most jams. Good luck.

I bought a 4X4 atv back in 98. A 2WD would have been more than enough for the lease I was in at the time but thought it would be best to go ahead and get the 4X4 while I was at it. Two years ago I got into a new lease and I'm glad I spent the extra cash.

If you get the 4X4 go with one that that can be switched between 2WD and 4WD. Mine is full time 4X4 and takes alot of effort to turn and isn't much fun to "play" on. There are advantages and disadvantages to both. Take your time and get whichever will be best for you. Good luck!!!

Where we ride they have tried two wheel drives and they just won't keep up infact some places they won't go at all . If your staying on the beaton path 2 wheels are okay ,but limit where you can take them .

I have 2 4x4 wheelers. One thing to keep in mind........it is better to have and not need, than to need and not have.

Hurry up and wait.

Buy cheap, buy twice.<img src=icon_smile_wink.gif border=0 align=middle>