I won't get into the "which one is better" debate, but here are some things that I look for in an atv. Things like the ability to switch from 2wd to 4wd, a locking front differential, hi-lo tranny, good guages, comfortable seat, smooth ride and good power are a few things to consider. And when you finally decide on one, get a winch, they're worth every penny.

I have a Polaris Sportsman 500 and I love it. The independent suspension and 4wd system are fantastic. I couldn't say enough about it.

The Yamaha Grizzly 660 is an absolute beast, its automatic which you may or may not like, but it has a ton of torque and pulls over 1000 pounds. It is kind of pricey but it is an awesome machine.

Checked out some web sites on the major manufacturers. Kinda like the Kodiak 450 4x4. Heard Yamaha has some ignition and starting problems. Any input on the Kodiak 450's reliability ? The 4x4 on demand, all disc brakes and clearance seem to be great features. Was told to stay away from belt drives but I'm not a swamp or water runner so I don't think this would be a problem for woods and shallow creeks. Anyone have a good reason to not get this machine ?

Its hard to beat a Honda Rancher ES 4x4

well said!! there is nothing better! durable, smooth riding, IRS, great pulling power, (they pull more than any other 4wheeler except the 600 and 700 sportsman by polaris)
my personal favorite is the 500 HO (high output) 25% more power than the regular 500. i will revise my decision on the winch they can come in use sometimes. so get ya a good winch also!

I have a 450es and it has a pull start for a backup.
As far as what model to buy, anything but a belt drive. I've seen too many belt drives get muddy or wet and they will not go anywhere when they do. My buddy bought the 660 yamaha and the first weekend got it in the mud and the next week it was in the shop getting a new belt and warranty doesn't covering it. My other buddy has a polaris with a belt drive and when it gets wet it don't go.
The yamaha's and honda's in the 350 to 500 range are great. My 450 has the option of 2 or 4 wheel drive and I really like that. The two wheel drive is really fun in the mud and snow, you can really dirt track it.

Yamaha 450 kodiak. We have had Yamaha and Polaris in snowmobiles and 4 wheelers and we are much happyer with the Yamaha. Our 1988 Yamaha Big Bear 350 is like a tank. Our 2002 Polaris sportsman 400 rides nice but the suspension is too weak 100 pounds of corn on the back and it is almost impossible to stear.

I have a 2004 Kawasaki Prarie 700. It only has 60 hrs on it right now but it is the best bike I have rode so far!

you cant spell polaris without POlariS!!

actually i just dont like them, but i have no real logic behind it, just a personal opinion. I would go with a yamaha or honda. I have a Yamaha grizzly 600, and it is a BEAST. But if you dont want to overdo the size/power, i would go with either a big bear or kodiak at least 350cc