KymcoForum.com
Offroad => Side By Side => Topic started by: jew8201 on December 18, 2016, 08:52:34 PM
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Hello to all on the Kymco Forum. I am new here. I have been doing EXTENSIVE research on the UXV 450i, and side x sides in general. I have read many many of the post on here related to the 450i and kymco in general. This 450i is one neat cool machine. Sized right with all the right touches. Man the storage options on this thing! I love it! My side x side would used for 60% recreation/sport trail riding and 40% work-gardening around the house and such chores moving stuff, hunting and fishing etc. (basically 50/50 leaning more of the rec and trail riding side) How does this motor truly perform? I've read all the reviews from major outlets- I tend to take them with a grain of salt because dollars in their pockets often influences what they say about a product they are reviewing IMO. But none the less all I'm reading is positive positive positive!!! How is the top end? Don't need or want a speed demo but not a slug either, 50ish mph or there abouts is good with me. I am interested in the camo. Does anyone have the camo? How is the quality of the plastics? Did I mention the storage?! I can't get over how clever they were in the design of this thing.
At 8499 MSRP for the camo, with the accessories I want or like to have from the kymco site my total would be around 10,500. Not a bad deal considering the cost of other "base" side x sides. Of coarse I can always add accessories later or make my own but I figure since I would be financing why not get it the way I want if the payments stay manageable.
Any changes between the 2016 and 2017 models?? I have emailed getinfo@kymcousa.com as well. Awaiting to see what response I get.
Last week I test drove a 700 UXV in the parking lot of local dealer. Not even sure or know if they had a 450i but I'm going back to look. The 700 was nice and power from the short ride I had seemed good. The salesman said he did know that the kymco 700i would take the Honda pioneer 700. But this 450i is hands down a nicer machine over all from what I can tell. Anyway just looking for some feed back, curious about the 450i top end, speed.
Thanks and happy riding
Josh
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Hello to all on the Kymco Forum. I am new here. I have been doing EXTENSIVE research on the UXV 450i, and side x sides in general. I have read many many of the post on here related to the 450i and kymco in general. This 450i is one neat cool machine. Sized right with all the right touches. Man the storage options on this thing! I love it! My side x side would used for 60% recreation/sport trail riding and 40% work-gardening around the house and such chores moving stuff, hunting and fishing etc. (basically 50/50 leaning more of the rec and trail riding side) How does this motor truly perform? I've read all the reviews from major outlets- I tend to take them with a grain of salt because dollars in their pockets often influences what they say about a product they are reviewing IMO. But none the less all I'm reading is positive positive positive!!! How is the top end? Don't need or want a speed demo but not a slug either, 50ish mph or there abouts is good with me. I am interested in the camo. Does anyone have the camo? How is the quality of the plastics? Did I mention the storage?! I can't get over how clever they were in the design of this thing.
At 8499 MSRP for the camo, with the accessories I want or like to have from the kymco site my total would be around 10,500. Not a bad deal considering the cost of other "base" side x sides. Of coarse I can always add accessories later or make my own but I figure since I would be financing why not get it the way I want if the payments stay manageable.
Any changes between the 2016 and 2017 models?? I have emailed getinfo@kymcousa.com as well. Awaiting to see what response I get.
Last week I test drove a 700 UXV in the parking lot of local dealer. Not even sure or know if they had a 450i but I'm going back to look. The 700 was nice and power from the short ride I had seemed good. The salesman said he did know that the kymco 700i would take the Honda pioneer 700. But this 450i is hands down a nicer machine over all from what I can tell. Anyway just looking for some feed back, curious about the 450i top end, speed.
Thanks and happy riding
Josh
Anyone got anything to say or add in regards to the 450i ? I'm many of my above questions have been answered just looking to see if anyone has anything new or different to add....
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I use mine about 95% for work, heavy work, from pulling a sled loaded with 750-1000 lbs of firewood in the woods low range to pulling my 990lb towable backhoe on the street at speeds up to 45 mph, even going up 12% grades I can maintain 35mph while towing my backhoe. I am dual registered for both street use with Special Commercial plates and OHRV
gets good fuel economy too, I'm getting 40mpg±
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I use mine about 95% for work, heavy work, from pulling a sled loaded with 750-1000 lbs of firewood in the woods low range to pulling my 990lb towable backhoe on the street at speeds up to 45 mph, even going up 12% grades I can maintain 35mph while towing my backhoe. I am dual registered for both street use with Special Commercial plates and OHRV
gets good fuel economy too, I'm getting 40mpg±
Man that's pretty impressive! Sounds like the 450i can definitely handle some hard work! How many miles and hours does your machine have? What your model do you have? How's the belt holding up and other maintenance?
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We've had a blast with ours. With stock tires it'll run 48 on the Rev limiter. I needed more ground clearance because most of our riding is really boney. I moved the front shock mounts to the outer position and put a set of 26" Bighorn 2.0 on and we now have all the ground clearance I need. The guys I ride with all have 800 or bigger sport machines like RZRs but on the trails we ride nobody has to wait for me to catch up. That little 450 has plenty of low end grunt. I cleaned the clutch's last month because we rode in a lot of dust this Fall and the belt was like new with 600 miles on it since September. I haven't found too much to gripe about as far as fit and finish either. The only thing that bugs me is the occasional rear brake disk chatter but from what I've read that's a common issue with a lot of these SxS's, not just the Kymco. I've learned I can just ignore it. It seems like a rugged little buggy for sure.
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I don't think you can go wrong with the 450i unless your a big dude. My neighbor is 285 and 6'5" and yes the machine is small for him. I am only 5'6" and it fits perfect. Had mine for a year, 440 miles, no issues!. The rear brake disc clatter in reverse is common among all Kymco and other SxS machines. The only complaint on the 450i is the notchy shifter, having talked to the factory it is because they use a spring loaded shift fork so it can be tricky shifting gears getting out of and going into but you get used to it rather quickly. The factory is having a 1.9% finance program going on for 36 months....cant beat it. That is what I bought mine under, but paying double payments so it will be paid in march 2017. When riding in a large offroad gravel pit a couple times over the summer and had no problem climbing any hills I wanted to climb, even pulled out of the mud a RZR...bot was he surprised at my Kymco! Tope speed is set to 48 mph as the rev limiter kicks in then, I am told it is the same for all the UXV models including the 500 & 700. I do know the 450i will beat a 500 in a drag race right up to about 40 mph. Overall I am very pleased with my machine and more and more after market stuff is coming out everyday, they are that popular. The scaled down size I think is a really big factor in the 450i, some of the SxS machines are really big and I find the compact size to be an advantage. Keep us posted on your findings.......
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Oh ya forgot to mention the camo finish on the 450i. You do realize that the finish is a paint/decal type of finish that will probably scratch off over time.... I looked at the camo and thought it looked pretty cool, but then my common sense kicked in and I thought about paying 500 extra for something that will get scraped off in a few years...you might consider a green model and add the camo decals yourself and then you can touch up or replace any that get damaged over time. I wanted a green model for that reason but red was the only color in stock besides the camo unit. The wife can see me better in the red model....not sure if that's good or bad??
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We've had a blast with ours. With stock tires it'll run 48 on the Rev limiter. I needed more ground clearance because most of our riding is really boney. I moved the front shock mounts to the outer position and put a set of 26" Bighorn 2.0 on and we now have all the ground clearance I need. The guys I ride with all have 800 or bigger sport machines like RZRs but on the trails we ride nobody has to wait for me to catch up. That little 450 has plenty of low end grunt. I cleaned the clutch's last month because we rode in a lot of dust this Fall and the belt was like new with 600 miles on it since September. I haven't found too much to gripe about as far as fit and finish either. The only thing that bugs me is the occasional rear brake disk chatter but from what I've read that's a common issue with a lot of these SxS's, not just the Kymco. I've learned I can just ignore it. It seems like a rugged little buggy for sure.
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So the top speed you say is around 48? How has the bigger tires affected the power? Low end or top end? If at all?
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Man that's pretty impressive! Sounds like the 450i can definitely handle some hard work! How many miles and hours does your machine have? What your model do you have? How's the belt holding up and other maintenance?
other that routine maintenance, I had the throttle cable recall done and my incident with water in my belt enclosure from submerging it (see the drive belt thread) I thought I blew the belt cause it wouldn't move, but is was just that the water in the drive belt enclosure turned out to be just a belt frozen inside a big ice cube......... I have just over 900 miles on my 2015 UXV450i. When the ice cube melted, my mechanic told me that my belt was barely showing any wear
because I use it to carry quite a bit of weight, I cranked up the preload on the shocks all the way (I'm 5-11 and weigh 300, one of my employees is 6'3 and weighs nearly 350) many times 300-400 lbs of equipment in the bed as well
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Oh ya forgot to mention the camo finish on the 450i. You do realize that the finish is a paint/decal type of finish that will probably scratch off over time.... I looked at the camo and thought it looked pretty cool, but then my common sense kicked in and I thought about paying 500 extra for something that will get scraped off in a few years...you might consider a green model and add the camo decals yourself and then you can touch up or replace any that get damaged over time. I wanted a green model for that reason but red was the only color in stock besides the camo unit. The wife can see me better in the red model....not sure if that's good or bad??
So the camo will pill off? interesting for sure. I Actually like the green better but thought that was only on the turf model, website is sorta confusing in that regard. Well as long as the wife is riding with ya I'm sure its all good. As far as the speed, your saying the 450, 500 and 700 are all governed at 48mph? And each model just gets there in a different manor??? I mean 48 mph I think would be ok for those short straight burst on some trails and open road ways. My suzuki vinson 500 ATV used to hit 59-61 if I remember correctly and I used that speed more than you would think, lot of open sanding bottoms in the farming area where Im located.
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other that routine maintenance, I had the throttle cable recall done and my incident with water in my belt enclosure from submerging it (see the drive belt thread) I thought I blew the belt cause it wouldn't move, but is was just that the water in the drive belt enclosure turned out to be just a belt frozen inside a big ice cube......... I have just over 900 miles on my 2015 UXV450i. When the ice cube melted, my mechanic told me that my belt was barely showing any wear
because I use it to carry quite a bit of weight, I cranked up the preload on the shocks all the way (I'm 5-11 and weigh 300, one of my employees is 6'3 and weighs nearly 350) many times 300-400 lbs of equipment in the bed as well
I gotcha, thats good that it was just ice in the belt house. But how much water were you in for it to get wet in there? I mean are they sealed good or not so good???? I have read the thread on the belt issue...Not gonna lie of every positive thing I've read on these that is the only thing that i have stopped and scratched my head about, makes me a little nervous. But as I stated before its not a boat obviously and I wouldn't treat it as such anyway.
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Oh ya forgot to mention the camo finish on the 450i. You do realize that the finish is a paint/decal type of finish that will probably scratch off over time.... I looked at the camo and thought it looked pretty cool, but then my common sense kicked in and I thought about paying 500 extra for something that will get scraped off in a few years...you might consider a green model and add the camo decals yourself and then you can touch up or replace any that get damaged over time. I wanted a green model for that reason but red was the only color in stock besides the camo unit. The wife can see me better in the red model....not sure if that's good or bad??
Airshot according the website kymcousa.com Green is only available in the turf model....can someone explain the turf model and its differentials to me? Does it front and rear lockable and unlock-able differentials? Sounds that way to me but I may be misunderstanding the specs........ Definitely not a fan of the tires that come on the turf model. I get it thats why its called a turf model but those would have to go if i went with that model to get the GREEN color.
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The turf model has a locking and unlocking differential which allows for the machine to turn better on grass without creating ruts. Unlike the other models where the differential is always locked. I love my camo edition! (http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/0edc1c54e6fd77e8d9247b78f103a20f.jpg)(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/0e502c8f64f37e00a9e1942ebf5ead14.jpg)
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The turf model has a locking and unlocking differential which allows for the machine to turn better on grass without creating ruts. Unlike the other models where the differential is always locked. I love my camo edition! (http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/0edc1c54e6fd77e8d9247b78f103a20f.jpg)(http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/0e502c8f64f37e00a9e1942ebf5ead14.jpg)
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That looks awesome! How do you like the doors from body armor?? So on the turf model it has the same switch on the left side of the dash like the other models....2wd 4wd 4wd diff lock an on the right side of the dash in front of the shifter a rocker switch to unlock/open as well as lock the rear differential?
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How durable or tough is the bed on the 450? Is it plastic or composite or metal??? I know on the 700 its metal. Seems like I read somewhere where the bed rails cracked when fire wood was loaded? But I know off road body armor has the diamond plate bed rail caps to fix that issue if it is indeed a problem, well not necessarily a problem so much as a risk of the bed rail cracking. Can anyone confirm this? Sorry guys I know I'm full of questions. Hopefully tomorrow I will get a lot of first hand answers when I go back to the dealer, gonna call this morning and see if they have a 450 in for me to compare to the 700 I drove there.
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I own Off Road Body Armor but my family also has been selling Kymco for over ten years now. Feel free to give me a call with any questions. 314.609.2440
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I own Off Road Body Armor but my family also has been selling Kymco for over ten years now. Feel free to give me a call with any questions. 314.609.2440
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Hey Driemeyer25, I have looked over many of your products for the kymco UXVs. They are definitely nice and look of highest quality. I would certainly be adding some of your products to my machine to beef it up. I particularly love the half doors. One thing I'd like to see with the half doors is fabricating them so that they would extend down to the floor board, if that makes sense? I may give you a call at some point.
Thanks-Josh
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Well bummer.......local dealer doesn't have any 450i in stock right now. And said it would probably be after the first of the year before they got any in. He said they could get me one there if I wanted. But I don't want them to have to drive down to South Carolina to get one and put it together and then me not buy it. So I'm searching to see if anyone else around has one in stock. Don't mind a day trip to look. My dealer currently only has the 700's and a couple 500's in stock. Naturally in my mind I stop and scratch my head...700 vs 450 debate resurfaces itself...
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Well bummer.......local dealer doesn't have any 450i in stock right now. And said it would probably be after the first of the year before they got any in. He said they could get me one there if I wanted. But I don't want them to have to drive down to South Carolina to get one and put it together and then me not buy it. So I'm searching to see if anyone else around has one in stock. Don't mind a day trip to look. My dealer currently only has the 700's and a couple 500's in stock. Naturally in my mind I stop and scratch my head...700 vs 450 debate resurfaces itself...
Just had a good idea....Tomorrow I will go to my local arctic cat dealer and look at the prowler 500 to get an idea and feel for the kymco 450i seeming how kymco builds the arctic cat prowler 500 (same machines) prowler may not have all the same storage options as 450i not sure. But none the less this will give me a good idea of the Kymco UXV 450i as well as a change to check out and compare it to the Arctic Cat Prowler 500! Now to call the arctic cat dealer and confirm they have a 500. (will be shocked if they don't they are huge and sale just about every major brand, honda suzuki ktm arctic cat yamaha and seems like maybe one other) Only would I get the cat IF it were a killer deal. No sense in paying for the name. Plus I love that Kymco gives a 250 dollar military and public service discount. Being a paramedic I really like that and respect any company that recognizes those type professions. Well lets go make a phone to the arctic cat dealer..........
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I gotcha, thats good that it was just ice in the belt house. But how much water were you in for it to get wet in there? I mean are they sealed good or not so good???? I have read the thread on the belt issue...Not gonna lie of every positive thing I've read on these that is the only thing that i have stopped and scratched my head about, makes me a little nervous. But as I stated before its not a boat obviously and I wouldn't treat it as such anyway.
(http://www.nestreetriders.com/forum/attachments/f13/46252d1481750516-kymco-uxv450i-015-jpg)
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Just had a good idea....Tomorrow I will go to my local arctic cat dealer and look at the prowler 500 to get an idea and feel for the kymco 450i seeming how kymco builds the arctic cat prowler 500 (same machines) prowler may not have all the same storage options as 450i not sure. But none the less this will give me a good idea of the Kymco UXV 450i as well as a change to check out and compare it to the Arctic Cat Prowler 500! Now to call the arctic cat dealer and confirm they have a 500. (will be shocked if they don't they are huge and sale just about every major brand, honda suzuki ktm arctic cat yamaha and seems like maybe one other) Only would I get the cat IF it were a killer deal. No sense in paying for the name. Plus I love that Kymco gives a 250 dollar military and public service discount. Being a paramedic I really like that and respect any company that recognizes those type professions. Well lets go make a phone to the arctic cat dealer..........
from what I have seen, the prowler has a cosmetically different layout on the dash and does not have a parking brake like the Kymco
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(http://www.nestreetriders.com/forum/attachments/f13/46252d1481750516-kymco-uxv450i-015-jpg)
So did that amount of water hurt anything? Did it run fine once it was pulled out or did you have to do anything before proceeding??
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from what I have seen, the prowler has a cosmetically different layout on the dash and does not have a parking brake like the Kymco
Yeah I watched this video of the prowler https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7v-ZH_qEVs (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7v-ZH_qEVs) There are some differences but pretty much the same machine. I think I like the hood better on the Kymco far as utilizing the under hood storage. I could see that cover flying off over time on the cat. The shifter looks a little different as well think the kymco has a button on the end of the handle you depress to select the gear where the prowler doesn't according to the video. And I think I like the display better on the kymco. Hard to say for sure without seeing these in person. Also another video I watched said prowler 500 top speed is 45? And best I've read on the kymco 450i says 48? Is it safe to say these machines best they'll do on top end is 45? MAYBE 50 if your lucky?
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So did that amount of water hurt anything? Did it run fine once it was pulled out or did you have to do anything before proceeding??
I think if I was going in the other direction, water would have gotten into the airbox and ruined the engine, as soon as the front wheel dropped into the underwater hole, I stopped and didn't even try to power my way out, I got my block & tackle out (I don't have a winch) and pulled it thru the mud hole by hand, I put my gear back in the bed and continued to drive it as if nothing happened
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I think if I was going in the other direction, water would have gotten into the airbox and ruined the engine, as soon as the front wheel dropped into the underwater hole, I stopped and didn't even try to power my way out, I got my block & tackle out (I don't have a winch) and pulled it thru the mud hole by hand, I put my gear back in the bed and continued to drive it as if nothing happened
Wheww close call! Glad that worked out for you the way it did!!!
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And best I've read on the kymco 450i says 48? Is it safe to say these machines best they'll do on top end is 45? MAYBE 50 if your lucky?
it has a pretty solid rev limiter at 48, as tires wear and their diameter gets smaller, I am down to a top speed of 46, but it still gets there just as quick, these things are so narrow and short wheel base, you don't want to go 50
before I got my Kymco, I used to borrow a friends Arctic Cat 400 ATV to tow my firewood, it did fine, so I knew a 450 would be plenty of power, my brother has a Prowler 700 and it doesn't perform that much better that the engine size would indicate
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it has a pretty solid rev limiter at 48, as tires wear and their diameter gets smaller, I am down to a top speed of 46, but it still gets there just as quick, these things are so narrow and short wheel base, you don't want to go 50
before I got my Kymco, I used to borrow a friends Arctic Cat 400 ATV to tow my firewood, it did fine, so I knew a 450 would be plenty of power, my brother has a Prowler 700 and it doesn't perform that much better that the engine size would indicate
I understand what your saying with the speed and the size of the machine. So whats your thoughts randyo on the kymco 450i vs the kymco 700i engines? Any real world differences or significant top end differences?
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I really dunno, I have not seen my brother do anything with his 700 Prowler any faster than I can get done ith my 450i, I'm sure he can go faster and maybe pull more weight, but I haven't seen him do it, in fact, I haven't seen him use his Prowler for anything close to the capabilities of even the 450i, he has other equipment (log skidder, excavator, tractor, dump truck, even an old Oshkosh) that he uses for heavy lifting
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I really dunno, I have not seen my brother do anything with his 700 Prowler any faster than I can get done ith my 450i, I'm sure he can go faster and maybe pull more weight, but I haven't seen him do it, in fact, I haven't seen him use his Prowler for anything close to the capabilities of even the 450i, he has other equipment (log skidder, excavator, tractor, dump truck, even an old Oshkosh) that he uses for heavy lifting
So theres really no real world differences between the two other than maybe slightly more top end of the 700.
Whats everyone prefer for seats...bench on the 450i vs buckets on the 700i???
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I much prefer a bench seat, the seating position is more comfortable for me, the seat is roomier, and if I have to slide in from the passenger side I can if I've parked to close to something on the driver side
I'm not sure, to the Arctic Cat's have tilt steering wheel? for me, that is the most important feature for access of getting in and out
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I much prefer a bench seat, the seating position is more comfortable for me, the seat is roomier, and if I have to slide in from the passenger side I can if I've parked to close to something on the driver side
I'm not sure, to the Arctic Cat's have tilt steering wheel? for me, that is the most important feature for access of getting in and out
I don't know that I have a preference in seating. I like both. I also like a center console too though. The arctic prowler 500 has the exact same adjustable steering column as the kymco 450i.
The side x sides I am looking at and considering in no particular order are: Kymco 450i and 700i, CFmoto Uforce 500 HO, and honda pioneer 500 (although it literally has to crappy a top end speed for me its neat machine none the less) Arctic cat prowler 500 (if at a good price)
Of all those I like the features best on this 450i. I've got to see it in person. Which I am going to try and look at the arctic prowler 500 tomorrow and hopefully will have a better feel for them.
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The bed on the 450 is all steel, only the top of the side rails/tail gate are plastic. The Artic Cat Prowler is priced 2 grand higher than the Kymco. The Honda Pioneer 500 has 3" less ground cleanance and only 24" tires and have had some issues with their electronic transmissions. Keep in mind that any machine you buy the top speed is at wide open throttle!! If you run it like that for periods of time you will certainly shorten the life of any 4 stroke engine no matter whose name is on it. Also keep in mind that the 500 and the 700 machines are much larger, wider and heavier then the 450 so their top speed is not going to be a lot more. Any atv will be faster as they are much lighter in weight with a comparable size engine. The 450 weighs 1100+ pounds, most atv's that size are half that weight. Just not going to be able to meet the same specs on the 450i with any other machine for the same price..
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The bed on the 450 is all steel, only the top of the side rails/tail gate are plastic. The Artic Cat Prowler is priced 2 grand higher than the Kymco. The Honda Pioneer 500 has 3" less ground cleanance and only 24" tires and have had some issues with their electronic transmissions. Keep in mind that any machine you buy the top speed is at wide open throttle!! If you run it like that for periods of time you will certainly shorten the life of any 4 stroke engine no matter whose name is on it. Also keep in mind that the 500 and the 700 machines are much larger, wider and heavier then the 450 so their top speed is not going to be a lot more. Any atv will be faster as they are much lighter in weight with a comparable size engine. The 450 weighs 1100+ pounds, most atv's that size are half that weight. Just not going to be able to meet the same specs on the 450i with any other machine for the same price..
Airshot I couldn't agree more with your comments. All those variables play a role in each machine and engine size. And that is why I have been and continue to research this purchase to death! I am really appreciating everyones comments and discusses. Let it continue....
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So the top speed you say is around 48? How has the bigger tires affected the power? Low end or top end? If at all?
Since putting on the bighorns I've only been in the woods and I haven't found a long enough stretch to find out what the new top speed is but I have seen 41 mph and it was still climbing. I have no regrets of going to the bigger tires. It doesn't seem to have affected it much at all, if any, In high range and none at all in low range. I'm a big guy too. 6 foot 3 300 pounds and the tilt wheel was the big selling factor for me. I usually have my wife with me and I know before I changed the tires it would beat my friend and his wife in their Ranger 500 drag racing and top speed.
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Airshot I couldn't agree more with your comments. All those variables play a role in each machine and engine size. And that is why I have been and continue to research this purchase to death! I am really appreciating everyones comments and discusses. Let it continue....
Yep I hear ya....I did the same thing last year when I decided to buy my machine. I had owned ATV for the past 18 yrs and decided to go the SxS route this time. Let me say I have no regrets, the SxS is so much more versatile and really top speed means nothing to me. I am out in the country and we can operate on the back roads so mine sees a lot of road use during nice weather. I normally keep my top speed around 35mph, which I find plenty fast as they can get a little squirely on pavement with off road tires on them. I did not want a full size machine for what I use it for so the smaller size 450 fits perfect. I spent about 3 months searching and asking questions before I decided. One thing I did find interesting was to search other manufacturers forums and find comparisons that private owners posted that compared their brand to a friends Kymco machine. In every case I found, the owners might have preferred their own brand but had very high regards for the Kymco machines. And the 450i engine was used to give Kymco two GNCC race wins on the national level with their ATV's, so I have confidence in it. Kymco also has a number where you can call the factory in S.C. if you have any issues to deal with. I found them quite helpful with my questions and concerns. They don't allow dealers to be closer than 100 miles, so you may need to drive a little to find comparisons. Dreimier25 is a great guy to deal with, I bought some of his products and there quality is very good. His family dealership can answer any questions you may have, to bad your not close enough to deal with them directly.
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from what I have seen, the prowler has a cosmetically different layout on the dash and does not have a parking brake like the Kymco
The cat also has only a 6 month warranty vs Kymco 1 year. I've been riding Cat sleds since 1968 and I bought the Kymco. The Cat underhood storage is a bit more refined and closed in but I actually think the Kymco underhood is more practical. It's a lot easier to service without having to remove the bin like the Cat has. I know you want to do your home work. Like you, I read every review and watched every YouTube video I could find and couldn't find one negative review. I kept saying to myself "ya but there MUST be SOMETHING negative" and remained skeptical. I felt like "OK I'm taking a chance buying this" and you know what?..... those reviews are spot on. For the money the thing is awesome. No regrets.
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. Keep in mind that any machine you buy the top speed is at wide open throttle!!
I would suggest if you need full throttle to hit top speed on your's, something is amiss, on flat going, I can easily hit the rev limiter without going over half throttle, even pulling a trailer or my 1000lb tow-hoe I can maintain 45mph without going "full throttle"
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Yep I hear ya....I did the same thing last year when I decided to buy my machine. I had owned ATV for the past 18 yrs and decided to go the SxS route this time. Let me say I have no regrets, the SxS is so much more versatile and really top speed means nothing to me. I am out in the country and we can operate on the back roads so mine sees a lot of road use during nice weather. I normally keep my top speed around 35mph, which I find plenty fast as they can get a little squirely on pavement with off road tires on them. I did not want a full size machine for what I use it for so the smaller size 450 fits perfect. I spent about 3 months searching and asking questions before I decided. One thing I did find interesting was to search other manufacturers forums and find comparisons that private owners posted that compared their brand to a friends Kymco machine. In every case I found, the owners might have preferred their own brand but had very high regards for the Kymco machines. And the 450i engine was used to give Kymco two GNCC race wins on the national level with their ATV's, so I have confidence in it. Kymco also has a number where you can call the factory in S.C. if you have any issues to deal with. I found them quite helpful with my questions and concerns. They don't allow dealers to be closer than 100 miles, so you may need to drive a little to find comparisons. Dreimier25 is a great guy to deal with, I bought some of his products and there quality is very good. His family dealership can answer any questions you may have, to bad your not close enough to deal with them directly.
Airshot I am the same way in that I come from an ATV back ground. Had and have ridden Atvs all my life. I guess that is why top end and respectable speed is some what important to me. My 500 suzuki vinson could hit 60 no prob. But as mentioned weight and overall size are all factors. What lead me to side x side consideration is there versatility and the ability of having a cab to get comfortable year round use out of it as well as have the wife ride along too. I wish I was close to Dreimier25 and there shop as well. I am in North Carolina.
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Hey Driemeyer25, I have looked over many of your products for the kymco UXVs. They are definitely nice and look of highest quality. I would certainly be adding some of your products to my machine to beef it up. I particularly love the half doors. One thing I'd like to see with the half doors is fabricating them so that they would extend down to the floor board, if that makes sense? I may give you a call at some point.
Thanks-Josh
Jew8201
Since I created the doors with the ability to be removed easy out of the hinge like Jeep doors, I was afriad it would be too much weight to hang on just one hinge pioint. But I have developed an extra mud flap at the bottom that will attach to the door and atleast close that gap. I will be putting pictures up soon. As far as the differences between the kymco and arctic cat. We sell both at my family's dealership, and the kymco is cheaper as well has a softer seat, ebrake, and rear swat bar. The overall ride and handling as well as comfort is better than the cat. I read in a magazine about the potential bed rail issue on the Kymco. I was suprised Kymco didnt developed anything, so I decided to myself.
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I don't know what I would do without the ebrake/parking brake, without it, ya can't really park on a hill without putting the shifter in park, my biggest complaint about the 450i is how the shifter sticks in park position, I never use it
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At this point my biggest concern is the CVT. Not so much the performance of it as related to the machine in general but its location for service, the breather on it and the drain. Can anyone explain this a little better to me? I've never owned a CVT off road vehicle before. How well is it sealed what are the service intervals for it like???
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Your Vinson didn't have a CVT? I'm pretty sure they do. The cvts have a snorkel that draws cool air into the enclosed housing and an exit snorkel to exhaust the heat. If you are in water that it is deeper than the height of the snorkel inlet it would flood the clutch housing. Hence the drain plug. The snorkel inlet is on the drivers side roughly between the seat back and rear tire. We've been through some pretty deep stuff and never injested water. My buddy has a cf moto rzr clone and he gets flooded in places I have no trouble.
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Your Vinson didn't have a CVT? I'm pretty sure they do. The cvts have a snorkel that draws cool air into the enclosed housing and an exit snorkel to exhaust the heat. If you are in water that it is deeper than the height of the snorkel inlet it would flood the clutch housing. Hence the drain plug. The snorkel inlet is on the drivers side roughly between the seat back and rear tire. We've been through some pretty deep stuff and never injested water. My buddy has a cf moto rzr clone and he gets flooded in places I have no trouble.
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The Vinson (2004 model) was the manual foot sh** version. Thanks for explaining the Cvt on the 450i.
Looked at a Polaris ranger midesize 570 and definitely don't like the front end suspension on them. Lot of weak points with the McPherson struts front. Which brings me to the kymco suspension how does it perform and hold up? Anyone had any suspension problems??
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There is no maintenance on a CVT until time to replace the belt. Yep that sucks on a SxS as there is a lot to remove to get there but I check mine at around 1600 miles, normally replace with a new belt and save the old one for a spare if in good shape and so far all the CVT machines I have worked on still had good belts at that mileage. My only concern with auto-clutch shifters was the clutch was using the same oil as the engine and allowing the clutch residue to mix with the engine oil cant be good. Otherwise those were nice to be able to pick the right gear for your needs. However with the CVT just stab the gas and go and the engine always stays in the proper torque range unless your doing serious hill climbing or plowing snow then low needs to be used.
When I looked at the Polaris SxS models I had your same concerns with the front suspension and I do know of some folks having issues there. I was also not impressed with the welds on the frame sections where they join, not very uniform means less strength.
Actually I found those same issues on the John Deer models as well with the poor looking welds. I also made it a point with the dealers that if I was not allowed to look them over closely and take a test drive I would take my money elsewhere. Being a 65 yr old guy they knew I had the money to pay for it and was not some kid out shopping for joy. Only one dealer refused to allow be in the service area to be able to look them over very carefully....and yes I walked out the door! With that said, The dealer for the Kymco went absolutely overboard to allow me to look at anything I wanted. Don't know if they are all that way or not but this one was. I went into the shop where they had one getting service, and I was allowed to get in, crawl under, take things apart to look inside, what ever I needed to do. Then to top it off, when I told them I wanted a test ride they gave me a 450i camo and took me to their test track with hills, mud, sharp turns and decent straightaways and said try it out!! After a 20+ minute thrill ride on their proving grounds I went back and put a deposit on the red unit they had in stock. They were the best dealer experience I ever had buying anything. Don't know if others are that way or not, but these people sure were friendly to the buyer.
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There is no maintenance on a CVT until time to replace the belt. Yep that sucks on a SxS as there is a lot to remove to get there but I check mine at around 1600 miles, normally replace with a new belt and save the old one for a spare if in good shape and so far all the CVT machines I have worked on still had good belts at that mileage. My only concern with auto-clutch shifters was the clutch was using the same oil as the engine and allowing the clutch residue to mix with the engine oil cant be good. Otherwise those were nice to be able to pick the right gear for your needs. However with the CVT just stab the gas and go and the engine always stays in the proper torque range unless your doing serious hill climbing or plowing snow then low needs to be used.
When I looked at the Polaris SxS models I had your same concerns with the front suspension and I do know of some folks having issues there. I was also not impressed with the welds on the frame sections where they join, not very uniform means less strength.
Actually I found those same issues on the John Deer models as well with the poor looking welds. I also made it a point with the dealers that if I was not allowed to look them over closely and take a test drive I would take my money elsewhere. Being a 65 yr old guy they knew I had the money to pay for it and was not some kid out shopping for joy. Only one dealer refused to allow be in the service area to be able to look them over very carefully....and yes I walked out the door! With that said, The dealer for the Kymco went absolutely overboard to allow me to look at anything I wanted. Don't know if they are all that way or not but this one was. I went into the shop where they had one getting service, and I was allowed to get in, crawl under, take things apart to look inside, what ever I needed to do. Then to top it off, when I told them I wanted a test ride they gave me a 450i camo and took me to their test track with hills, mud, sharp turns and decent straightaways and said try it out!! After a 20+ minute thrill ride on their proving grounds I went back and put a deposit on the red unit they had in stock. They were the best dealer experience I ever had buying anything. Don't know if others are that way or not, but these people sure were friendly to the buyer.
That is definitely a awesome dealer/buying experience you got to have! I don't that any dealers around my area having anything close to a "testing" area, other than a parking lot. Far as the polaris I do like the machine so some extent, but the way that front end suspension is designed surely would scare me with the design in the geometry of it, got some weak points, especially for a machine of the weight of these SxS.
How's the suspension perform on this 450i? 7.5" of travel all the way around. Also hows the electrical system? Anyone had any issues there? Bearings, ball joints???
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I have followed this forum and another one, and so far no complaints of any serious problems. The few smaller issues appear to have been satisfied by the factory. Number one complaint is the notchy shifter, second complaint is lack of aftermarket bling, but that is changing now that the machine is becoming popular. I have read no complaints about lack of quality, do keep in mind that in anything you can get a bad one but when you look at the number of units sold and the few complaints reported it makes their record look pretty darn good. Also keep in mind that many models from other manufacturers are Kymco machines just renamed and rebadged. Aslo consider the number of drive-trains that Kymco builds for various manufacturers including Artic Cat, Kawasaki, Until recently Honda, Suzuki, and many other off brand names. Kymco International is the largest producer of CVT drive power systems in the world. They have been in the ATV market for a number of years, I looked at them in 2000 when I bought a Kawasaki Praire, they only got into the UTV market about 5-6 years back, but they already have had success in the atv market so why not. UTV's are growing in popularity, much faster than atv's. They have always had a year long warranty rather than the 6 month that most mfgrs have, but if you have noticed now that many others are starting to stretch out their warranty period to a year to stay competitive with Kymco. Like any mechanical machine you will find some with problems, but so far the factory has been willing to stand behind their products without much hassle.
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I have followed this forum and another one, and so far no complaints of any serious problems. The few smaller issues appear to have been satisfied by the factory. Number one complaint is the notchy shifter, second complaint is lack of aftermarket bling, but that is changing now that the machine is becoming popular. I have read no complaints about lack of quality, do keep in mind that in anything you can get a bad one but when you look at the number of units sold and the few complaints reported it makes their record look pretty darn good. Also keep in mind that many models from other manufacturers are Kymco machines just renamed and rebadged. Aslo consider the number of drive-trains that Kymco builds for various manufacturers including Artic Cat, Kawasaki, Until recently Honda, Suzuki, and many other off brand names. Kymco International is the largest producer of CVT drive power systems in the world. They have been in the ATV market for a number of years, I looked at them in 2000 when I bought a Kawasaki Praire, they only got into the UTV market about 5-6 years back, but they already have had success in the atv market so why not. UTV's are growing in popularity, much faster than atv's. They have always had a year long warranty rather than the 6 month that most mfgrs have, but if you have noticed now that many others are starting to stretch out their warranty period to a year to stay competitive with Kymco. Like any mechanical machine you will find some with problems, but so far the factory has been willing to stand behind their products without much hassle.
Thanks airshot. That is the trend I am seeing and reading as well. I've just got to find a dealer with one. The dealer that i have that sells them has only been carrying Kymco and selling them for a year now. They just dont have a 450i in right now, said maybe after the first of the year. They are also a yamaha honda and kawasaki dealer. They are 45 minutes from me. So I may do another dealer search on the kymoc site and see what else is around whether I have to drive or not.
I was reading in another thread about ground clearance and moving the shocks location and adding 26" tires etc. The specs say this 450i has 10' of ground clearance...is it not a true 10" as advertised? How is it really in stock form???
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I was reading in another thread about ground clearance and moving the shocks location and adding 26" tires etc. The specs say this 450i has 10' of ground clearance...is it not a true 10" as advertised? How is it really in stock form???
on perfectly flat ground, there is 10" but when do you ride on perfectly flat ground unless yer on the street, there are always dips and hollows when you're on trails, the plastic skid pans take a beating and the screws that hold them on shear off even though they are flat allen heads that are recessed into the skid pan
I will soon find out how well mine will go as the snow gets deeper this winter, so far, it's about 12" deep and I'm not getting hung up
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I was reading in another thread about ground clearance and moving the shocks location and adding 26" tires etc. The specs say this 450i has 10' of ground clearance...is it not a true 10" as advertised? How is it really in stock form???
That was me that put on the 26" Bighorn 2.0's. You have to realize it's only a half inch extra clearance. But cranking up the preload on the shocks also helps. Mine came through with the springs set almost full soft which mage a pretty supple ride but had huge drawbacks once on the trails. Our trails are boulder strewn and the way it's setup now I rarely rub the skid plate whereas the way it came stock was cringe worthy over the smallest of rocks. With the shocks moved to the outboard mount, cranked up prelaod, and 26" tires I now have a full 12" in front with us in it.
The actual benefit of the tires goes beyond the clearance. They are lightweight, yet still a 6 ply radial with a lot more strength than the 2/4 ply bias ply that come stock. The radials are noticeably easier to steer, not that it was ever really difficult to begin with. Stock tires of most any brand are not the greatest.
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That was me that put on the 26" Bighorn 2.0's. You have to realize it's only a half inch extra clearance. But cranking up the preload on the shocks also helps. Mine came through with the springs set almost full soft which mage a pretty supple ride but had huge drawbacks once on the trails. Our trails are boulder strewn and the way it's setup now I rarely rub the skid plate whereas the way it came stock was cringe worthy over the smallest of rocks. With the shocks moved to the outboard mount, cranked up prelaod, and 26" tires I now have a full 12" in front with us in it.
The actual benefit of the tires goes beyond the clearance. They are lightweight, yet still a 6 ply radial with a lot more strength than the 2/4 ply bias ply that come stock. The radials are noticeably easier to steer, not that it was ever really difficult to begin with. Stock tires of most any brand are not the greatest.
So you'd recommend a better tire and at least moving the preload to the highest or next to highest setting?
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So you'd recommend a better tire and at least moving the preload to the highest or next to highest setting?
preload is infinitely adjustable, you just move the ring up or down on threads, it's not a stepped adjuster
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Well so it seems NO ONE in my area within a 2 HR drive not a single dealer has a 450i in stock currently. One dealer said he's spoke with his rep and kymco is not out of them right now stating that they have 40-50 in the wearhouse. Just no one has one on the lot and will probably be the first of the year before they do. (I'm not in a hurry or rush to purchase right away just wanting to see this 450 before making any decisions) My local or closest kymco dealer has 500 and 700 in stock. As I mentioned early on in this discussion I've drove an looked at the 700 first hand (LE model). I liked it. Then I went to the website looking it over an seen this 450i. Over all I like the look of the 450i and its body work as well as the additional storage in the tailgate. All the kymco UXV are basically 7999-10000. Same ballpark on the prices.
So let me ask where do each of these stack up to one another, 450, 500, & 700? I'd think the 500 an 700 may have slight more top end if not by much. All have the same storage options except the tailgate on the 450. The specs of each unit are all similar. I know the 500 and 700 are bigger in overall size. Etc etc where do they stand against each other? I like all their units honestly with the look of the 450 the best. Just pondering and weighing options.
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K9bitten.....are your 26" tires the same wheel dia as the stock tires or did you have to buy new wheels? I really liked the look on your pics, so when the stockers wear out, I am thinking of going to 26" tires but hoping to be able to use the stock wheels.
jew8201...sounds like you have all the comparisons between the 3 different Kymco machines..Do you want a larger machine with bucket seats? if so then the 500 or 700 is the answer. If your looking for a more compact machine with almost the same performance then the 450i is the way to go. No one is going to order this close to Christmas and this close to year end due to taxes so waiting until after the first of the year should be expected. I would bet they had a 450 and already sold it, my dealer has sat on her 500 &700 and sold all her 450's and waiting for more. They are a hot seller for Kymco right now. I have my springs screwed all the way up for best ride height and I really think it rides better on the trail that way, on the pavement mabey not but off road the little extra height is good. On mine I created my own base for my plow mount, I wanted a mid chasis mount so I used angle iron to connect the 3 crossmembers together with the angle iron going from front to back. This angle iron gives me additional points to attach the skid plate to for additional support. In our summer riding at the stone quarry I bottomed out on some big rocks but no damage to the skid plate and I think it is because of the additional angle iron runners connecting the crossmembers to which the plow mounting plate attaches. After winter is over I drop 6 bolts to release the plow mount so nothing drops below the skid plate for summer riding. It was not in my original thinking but I now see those angle plate bars being added protection to support the skid plat and also the bottom of the motor. Sort of killed two birds with one stone I guess.
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I have my springs screwed all the way up for best ride height and I really think it rides better on the trail that way, on the pavement mabey not but off road the little extra height is good.
IMHO, max preload is just as important for pavement as well, unless you put around 20mph, the suspension set soft is very tippy due to the narrow wheelbase, stiffening it up helps handling immensely
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jew8201...sounds like you have all the comparisons between the 3 different Kymco machines..Do you want a larger machine with bucket seats? if so then the 500 or 700 is the answer. If your looking for a more compact machine with almost the same performance then the 450i is the way to go. No one is going to order this close to Christmas and this close to year end due to taxes so waiting until after the first of the year should be expected. I would bet they had a 450 and already sold it, my dealer has sat on her 500 &700 and sold all her 450's and waiting for more. They are a hot seller for Kymco right now.
Airshot---When you say almost the same performance, can you specify.....what are those performance differences? I did like the 700 I looked at drove. But the 450i is the better looking machine in appearance IMO.
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jew8201...sounds like you have all the comparisons between the 3 different Kymco machines..Do you want a larger machine with bucket seats? if so then the 500 or 700 is the answer. If your looking for a more compact machine with almost the same performance then the 450i is the way to go. No one is going to order this close to Christmas and this close to year end due to taxes so waiting until after the first of the year should be expected. I would bet they had a 450 and already sold it, my dealer has sat on her 500 &700 and sold all her 450's and waiting for more. They are a hot seller for Kymco right now.
Airshot---When you say almost the same performance, can you specify.....what are those performance differences? I did like the 700 I looked at drove. But the 450i is the better looking machine in appearance IMO.
I do know that one thing you have to look at and take into consideration when talking power is power to weight ratios. I have broken some down (HP/WEIGHT)
Kymco UXV 450i:
33hp/1095lbs=0.030 hp per lb
Kymco 500i:
36/1157=0.031 hp per lb
Kymco UXV 700i:
45hp/1137lbs=0.040 hp per lb
And for sakes cause a few other in the class:
Polaris ranger 500:
32hp/1065lbs=0.030 hp per lb
Polaris ranger 570:
44hp/1073lbs=0.041 hp/lb
CFmoto Uforce 500 ho:
38hp/1347lbs=0.028 hp/lb
CFMoto Uforce 800:
62hp/1377lbs=0.045 hp/lb
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Based on the factory specs, if I read it correctly the 500 top speed is rated at 50 mph and the 700 is only 55 mph. In many tests the 0-35mph is faster in the 450, than the 500 and the 700 is only a machine length faster. Doesn't seem like much difference for another 2 grand. Tow weight specs and box weight specs are the same in all three machines. Other than wanting a larger machine and bucket seats I am not sure how much more your getting for 2 grand....just my opinion!! In the trails the slightly smaller machine has been great. I have followed many of the larger machines thru the woods and glad I di choose the smaller one.
Your money, your choice.....doesn't make me any difference. I would like to see you actually check out all of them before deciding though.
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Based on the factory specs, if I read it correctly the 500 top speed is rated at 50 mph and the 700 is only 55 mph. In many tests the 0-35mph is faster in the 450, than the 500 and the 700 is only a machine length faster. Doesn't seem like much difference for another 2 grand. Tow weight specs and box weight specs are the same in all three machines. Other than wanting a larger machine and bucket seats I am not sure how much more your getting for 2 grand....just my opinion!! In the trails the slightly smaller machine has been great. I have followed many of the larger machines thru the woods and glad I di choose the smaller one.
Your money, your choice.....doesn't make me any difference. I would like to see you actually check out all of them before deciding though.
I understand....valid points. I guess at this point I'd be lying if I say I weren't hesitant to go the kymco route for the simple reason that I don't know how good of a dealer I have close by. My local dealer has only been carrying Kymco for a year. Who's to say they want drop them. They used to sell "bennche" one of the knock off yamaha rhino clones. They had issues with them so they dropped them. I can could see them not messing with them when they sell so many hondas yamahas an kawasakis there. But I say they need Kymco to offer better price points for buyers. Theres two other dealers about 2 hrs away. I could buy there but thats not practical for support and service.
I do like the polaris ranger midsize 570. I but I read way to many horror stories with them. And there front end suspension without double A arms is a huge weak point to me. I dont know time will tell and point me in the right direction I know.
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I do like the polaris ranger midsize 570. I but I read way to many horror stories with them. And there front end suspension without double A arms is a huge weak point to me. I dont know time will tell and point me in the right direction I know.
if I had the $$$ (13,800), I'd go for the Polaris Diesel Ranger, it has double A arms all the way around w 10"travel , a 1028cc 3cylinder Kohler diesel that puts out 80hp, 2000lb tow capacity , 110 amp alternator, 12" ground clearance, seats 3
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Ouch that would be one heck of a price tag, then add sales tax plus a plow and mount a top and some other accessories....bit stiff for my interests. Your comment about the pavement is correct I was referring to the fact that the stiffer springs setting makes it turn sharper with less body roll and could easily get squirrely if someone wasn't paying attention especially with the off road tires....now with pavement tires, she would be road ready!!
jew8201...my dealer is 1.5 hours away..so what ...they had the machine I wanted. I have 3 other dealers within 30 min but they are all hard sell and don't have the machine I wanted. If your local dealer was to drop the Kymco line it will be due to pressure from the other mfgrs. I did have two other dealers within 2 hrs that used to sell the Kymco brand and I did talk to them, they were not happy they had to give them up but the other mfgrs said drop them or we pull out line so they had no choice. Those same dealers told me that the Kymco factory was much easier to deal with than Honda or Suzuki but he sold more Honda's than he did anything else so he had no choice but to drop the Kymco lineup. Both were Kymco dealers for more than 3 yr and had no issues with them. In fact one of the dealers is the guy that directed me to my current dealer where I bought my machine. You got to do what ever is best for you, nobody is gonna hold it against you if you defect to another brand (LOL) we will only tease you and say I told you so if it doesn't work out...LOL
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Ouch that would be one heck of a price tag, then add sales tax plus a plow and mount a top and some other accessories....bit stiff for my interests.
no sales tax here in NH, for me, yes it would be one heck of a price, but it would also be a huge business expense deduction on my federal tax (we don't have income tax in NH either), Now if I could work another barter deal with my local dealer (they sell Honda, Honda Power Equipment, Kawasaki, Yamaha, Suzuki, Polaris & Kymco) my cash out of pocket could be as little as what I pay my employees in wages, but I can't really justify it, the 450i is sufficient for my work needs
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No sales tax and no income tax....what does your state use for its tax base? Wow if I add up all my taxes in my state it would make you cry. But then again...doesn't your state have strict gun ownership rules? That is an area I would not give up. Hard to believe no taxes.....
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No sales tax and no income tax....what does your state use for its tax base? Wow if I add up all my taxes in my state it would make you cry. But then again...doesn't your state have strict gun ownership rules? That is an area I would not give up. Hard to believe no taxes.....
Don't confuse NH with Massachusetts where everything is illegal, NH is the Live Free or Die state, was chosen for the https://freestateproject.org/ (https://freestateproject.org/), gun laws are very lax, not quite as lax as our neighboring states, VT & ME that don't even require a permit for concealed carry, but that may change soon, our legislature has passed a no permit necessary that our outgoing Democrat Governor vetoed twice, Jan 3, we will have a Republican Governor (a past client of mine fwiw) Even now, to get a permit is simple, it's a must issue, they just do a background check like buying a gun, whole process takes 1-5 days max depending on the workload of the local PD ( I got my concealed permit the same afternoon of the day I dropped it off)
We have a lot of user fees, (permit application fees, etc.) state lottery, room & meals tax to get money from tourists and local property tax that is generally higher than surrounding states, but that depends on what town you live in. I pay $3100 a year in property tax for 2 acres, my small 900 sq ft home, a 900 sq ft 3 story barn that I have my office in (I have a land use consulting business, land surveying/wetland scientist/onsite wastewater disposal and other environmental permitting) If I were in the next town over, my annual property tax bill would be closer to $5k
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That sounds quite interesting, I knew a couple of the new England states had serious anti-gun laws just wasn't sure which ones. Here we have sales tax, income tax and property tax and school income tax plus all the user fees you can think of. My home is a 1500 sq ft plus 2 car garage plus pole barn on 5 acres and I pay about 3600 in school and property taxes. We have a 7% sales tax and 35 atv/utx reg fee along with fishing at 20, hunting at 40 etc. How is your state on atv/utv trails?
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How is your state on atv/utv trails?
over 1500 miles of trails in the northern part of the state, this year, Polaris moved their big annual RZR event to Berlin NH from Tennesee http://www.polaris.com/en-us/company/article/polaris-announces-two-north-american-camp-rzr-events (http://www.polaris.com/en-us/company/article/polaris-announces-two-north-american-camp-rzr-events)
trails in my part of the state are much more limited, I am chairman of my town's Economic Development Committee, one of our projects is expanding OHRV trails in my area, working with the state Bureau of Trails, earlier this week, our State bureau of Trails met with our Federal Delegation to introduce some legislation that would allow motorized wheeled vehicles on some rail trails that the state developed with federal funds from http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/transportation_enhancements/ (http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/transportation_enhancements/), hopefully we will be able to extend what we have to connect with the trails in the north country
I have my UTV dual registered with OHRV stickers for trails and "Special Commercial" street plates that are not available to the general public for recreational street use. but it least it allows me to get to local trails without trailering
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Consider your self fortunate because in my area there is not diddly squat for trails except for some small ones in mine and the neighbors back couple of acres. We used to have permission to ride a couple small woods in our area but a pipline company came in and purchased the rights to the couple wooded areas from the local farmers and made it off limits to the public now. We do get away with cruising the back roads with orange triangles considered to be farm vehicles so they don't bother us. If I want any serious riding done I have to trailer a couple hours at least to find a worthwhile riding area and about 4-6 hrs to find really good trails to ride. Cant believe the states don't do more to encourage trails and riding...look at the lost revenues from trail riding permits they could get..
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I will either end up with a kymco 450 or 700 OR Polaris two seat midsize ranger 570-can get one 9500 out the door. I like them all!!! LOL
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. If I want any serious riding done I have to trailer a couple hours at least to find a worthwhile riding area and about 4-6 hrs to find really good trails to ride. Cant believe the states don't do more to encourage trails and riding...look at the lost revenues from trail riding permits they could get..
depends on what you call serious riding , locally, I have maybe 20 miles of trails I can get to without trailering, its about 3hours north to Jericho Mtn, Park, 80-100 miles of trails in the park, but connected to 1000-1500 miles of trails in the region, it has had a SERIOUS economic impact, the hospitality industry is booming, as is the OHRV industry, revenues from registrations/permits is peanuts, so much money is coming into the north country area that other industries are now seeing the impact, what was once a busy area that died when the paper mills shut down is now a busy place once again, that is what I am trying to do in my area, I volunteered to be on the Economic Development Committee last spring, and somehow last month, I got roped into being chairman. I am also on the local Conservation Commission, unlike other area CCs we are not anti OHRV, it will be a tough sell to some landowners, but I see it as a win win, get the clubs to pay for trail & bridge construction & maintenance, the land owner gets to use the trails for his land management activities, let them close the trails during mud season in the spring and hunting season in the fall, open for sleds in the winter and wheeled OHRVs in summer, ATVs, SxSs & trail bikes
I will either end up with a kymco 450 or 700 OR Polaris two seat midsize ranger 570-can get one 9500 out the door. I like them all!!! LOL
can't go wrong with any of em, Polaris is probably the most popular SxS out there, in our area, Arctic Cat is prolly #2
my local dealer considered taking on CF Moto but decided against it the factory support just isn't there yet, Tractor Supply sells those Massimo things, well equip for a low cost, but where do you get service & parts ?
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can't go wrong with any of em, Polaris is probably the most popular SxS out there, in our area, Arctic Cat is prolly #2
my local dealer considered taking on CF Moto but decided against it the factory support just isn't there yet, Tractor Supply sells those Massimo things, well equip for a low cost, but where do you get service & parts ?
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I have a CFmoto dealer right here in town, they also sell ALOT of the kids kymco ATVs. I've looked at and driven the CFmoto Uforce 500 ho EPS. They are nice, but I'd go for the 800, the 500 seemed a little lacking but it was a really test drive just put putted around in the parking lot. The owner spoke extremely highly of the company, CFmoto. He said that he had been to there headquarters in China and has watched them build them. He has also been to the USA factory in Minnesota, they're on the same street as Polaris and all the others up there. Anyway he went on an on. He said they are here to stay and aren't going anywhere.
I like the massimo I think its a well equipped unit as well. Read some good and some not so good on them. Same CFmoto dealer I have once upon a time carried them. I was quoted today on a new Polaris midsize two seat ranger 570 9500 out the door. I want be making any decisions until I lay eyes on a Kymco 450i first hand and hopefully get to drive one.
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Randyo... it seems like your people in your state are willing to do what it takes to get their revenue and incomes by expanding the lucrative atv/utv business. My hat is off to them. now we just need stiffer penalties to those that abuse the priviledge and spread the litter.
jew8201..that is the same Polaris model I was comparing to when I chose the Kymco 450i. They all have their pros and cons just hope that whichever one you get is a good one and not made on a Friday just before quiting time!!
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jew8201..that is the same Polaris model I was comparing to when I chose the Kymco 450i. They all have their pros and cons just hope that whichever one you get is a good one and not made on a Friday just before quiting time!!
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Airshot did you have a chance or get to drive a ranger 570?? And no kidding I think they should just give the factory workers Mondays and Fridays off! LOL
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Only drove one a short distance thru a parking lot. Had a nice ride, steering was good except in diff lock mode. The only real turnoff for me was the overall quality of welds and other fit and finnish. The one I looked at did not have the digital dash. Some of the suspension parts were just U shaped stamped sheetmetal, as some of the frame members were as well, may have been improved by now......that was a year ago. You do have to remember that as a toolmaker by trade I have learned to be very fussy about how things are made and constructed especially from sheetmetal and plastic molding as those were my specialities in the trade. I also did a study of customer complaints per 1000 units of manufacture and I know Polaris makes more atv's and utv's than any other manufacturer out there but they also have the highest number of complaints per 1000 units of mfgr than any other mfgr. That is why I stated not wanting one made on Monday or a Friday, especially Friday!
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K9bitten.....are your 26" tires the same wheel dia as the stock tires or did you have to buy new wheels? I really liked the look on your pics, so when the stockers wear out, I am thinking of going to 26" tires but hoping to be able to use the stock wheels.
Yes stock 7" wide wheels. I have the LE with the Aluminum wheels. I think the front offset is 5/2 and rear is 4/3. Maxxis Bighorn 2.0. Front tires are 26/9r-12 and Rear are 26/10r-12.
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Has anyone ever ridden at the Hatfield McCoy Trails? Wondering what its like and how the kymco 450 would do? I imagine there's some steep areas.
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K9bitten....I was referring to the stock steel wheels, the fronts are 25x8x12 and rear is 25x10x12 and I was hoping to find 26" tires to fit these wheels. I have a ways to go before they are worn out but just thought I might start looking around at what is available.
jew8201.....been to the H/M trails on a couple occasions with my atv's and we had no problem climbing any hill I wanted to challenge with my Praire 300. Now keep in mind I am no dummy and not going to challenge something that is out of the realm of possibility. I am a conservative rider and I respect my equipment and it is expensive so I am not going to abuse my stuff. I am going to take my 450i there this coming summer and honestly I am not the least bit worried. We went to Bundy Hill this past summer a couple times, it is a worn out gravel pit with some pretty steep gravel coated hills and I had no issue climbing any of those with two of us in my 450i. The gravel there is very fine just a bit courser than sand and robs HP just like the sand dunes do. There were a couple hills that had me wondering, one was a 50 ft climb with muddy water running downhill and it was slick. A couple of two wheel drive atvs needed numerous running starts to make it up the hill. A couple 4wd atv's just made the top when their momentum ran out. I used the diff lock and climbed right up without an issue. It sure brought a lot of attention to the Kymco from other riders. Before we left I had about 4-5 people come over to look at the machine, first time ever seeing a Kymco, they had watched it perform thru out the day and they were quite impressed as was I.
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K9bitten....I was referring to the stock steel wheels, the fronts are 25x8x12 and rear is 25x10x12 and I was hoping to find 26" tires to fit these wheels. I have a ways to go before they are worn out but just thought I might start looking around at what is available.
jew8201.....been to the H/M trails on a couple occasions with my atv's and we had no problem climbing any hill I wanted to challenge with my Praire 300. Now keep in mind I am no dummy and not going to challenge something that is out of the realm of possibility. I am a conservative rider and I respect my equipment and it is expensive so I am not going to abuse my stuff. I am going to take my 450i there this coming summer and honestly I am not the least bit worried. We went to Bundy Hill this past summer a couple times, it is a worn out gravel pit with some pretty steep gravel coated hills and I had no issue climbing any of those with two of us in my 450i. The gravel there is very fine just a bit courser than sand and robs HP just like the sand dunes do. There were a couple hills that had me wondering, one was a 50 ft climb with muddy water running downhill and it was slick. A couple of two wheel drive atvs needed numerous running starts to make it up the hill. A couple 4wd atv's just made the top when their momentum ran out. I used the diff lock and climbed right up without an issue. It sure brought a lot of attention to the Kymco from other riders. Before we left I had about 4-5 people come over to look at the machine, first time ever seeing a Kymco, they had watched it perform thru out the day and they were quite impressed as was I.
Airshot, that is awesome! Thats what I like to hear. I have always wanted to get up there to ride. And with this next purchase (whatever it shall be) thats what I plan to do. I assume there would be plenty of spaces to open one up, thats why I was asking about top speed an such as well. I'm 6' 205 lb (34 yo) by the way. How many hours were you riding? Ever wish for bucket seats instead of the bench???
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H/M is probably the best riding area east of the Mississippi, with well over 1500 miles of trails in every level of experience. There are some flatter more out in the open areas where you can wind it up, but for the most part just occasional bursts of speed are about it. Way to twisty and turny for any speed and in some areas you might be riding next to a 100 or 200 ft drop off. Also can be busy depending on which trail system you ride, some are more popular than others. You never know what is laying around the next bend so all out speed is entirely unsafe. Some of the hills we climbed were so long going up that you had to stop at the bottom (or top depending on which way your going) shut off the engine and listen for other machines before you started up the hill. A couple hills we spent 15 minutes just going up and you could feel the air getting thinner and getting colder at elevation. Most trails are two way so caution is needed as you don't know what is coming the other way. There have been some real serious accidents there from those riding without caution. There are trails that require 4wd and a winch to even get on. It is also well monitored by the local authorities, they were very friendly to us but not very friendly to those that choose to break their regulations and rules. Fines can be stiff if you do stupid stuff. The people there (visitors) were very friendly and helpful, my wife had a few minor issues handling her atv and lots of strangers jumped into help when needed. My wife was a bit scared as she was fairly new at trail riding but my son and I went down another time and had a blast!! For those wanting special riding areas they also have an oval track area, strictly serious hill climbing area, a serious mud bog area etc for those that want to challenge their machines and body. Needless to say we watched but did not participate in those. I am 66 yrs old and the bench seat is a plus for me and the wife with her two artificial hips, buckets are a pain for us to get in and out, but keep in mind our machine is primarily used for work, recreation is second. If I were serious off roaders and no work then the buckets would be more important as well as better shoulder harnesses. If you want a sport machine then the RZR or Maverick etc is better suited for all out performance. we use ours for work 75% of the time and recreation 25% of the time so you need to consider your needs.
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H/M is probably the best riding area east of the Mississippi, with well over 1500 miles of trails in every level of experience. There are some flatter more out in the open areas where you can wind it up, but for the most part just occasional bursts of speed are about it. Way to twisty and turny for any speed and in some areas you might be riding next to a 100 or 200 ft drop off. Also can be busy depending on which trail system you ride, some are more popular than others. You never know what is laying around the next bend so all out speed is entirely unsafe. Some of the hills we climbed were so long going up that you had to stop at the bottom (or top depending on which way your going) shut off the engine and listen for other machines before you started up the hill. A couple hills we spent 15 minutes just going up and you could feel the air getting thinner and getting colder at elevation. Most trails are two way so caution is needed as you don't know what is coming the other way. There have been some real serious accidents there from those riding without caution. There are trails that require 4wd and a winch to even get on. It is also well monitored by the local authorities, they were very friendly to us but not very friendly to those that choose to break their regulations and rules. Fines can be stiff if you do stupid stuff. The people there (visitors) were very friendly and helpful, my wife had a few minor issues handling her atv and lots of strangers jumped into help when needed. My wife was a bit scared as she was fairly new at trail riding but my son and I went down another time and had a blast!! For those wanting special riding areas they also have an oval track area, strictly serious hill climbing area, a serious mud bog area etc for those that want to challenge their machines and body. Needless to say we watched but did not participate in those. I am 66 yrs old and the bench seat is a plus for me and the wife with her two artificial hips, buckets are a pain for us to get in and out, but keep in mind our machine is primarily used for work, recreation is second. If I were serious off roaders and no work then the buckets would be more important as well as better shoulder harnesses. If you want a sport machine then the RZR or Maverick etc is better suited for all out performance. we use ours for work 75% of the time and recreation 25% of the time so you need to consider your needs.
Well with that in mind far as seating is concerned maybe the 700i would be better for my intended uses. I'll be using probably 60% recreational riding trails an such hunting fishing camping etc. and about 40% work in the yard an gardening an such.
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K9bitten....I was referring to the stock steel wheels, the fronts are 25x8x12 and rear is 25x10x12 and I was hoping to find 26" tires to fit these wheels. I have a ways to go before they are worn out but just thought I might start looking around at what is available.
Airshot, that 25x8x12 and 25x10x12 is your tire size. 25" tall, 8" wide, on a 12" rim. The RIM size is 6w x 12t with a 4/2 offset. That means the face of the rim where your lug nuts mount is 2" from the bead on the outside half, and 4" from the bead on the inside. The rear is 7 x 12 with a 4/3 offset. The 26" tire I used are 26x9x12 on the front, so 1" wider and 1" taller but the same wheel with no issue, nothing rubbing, and 26 x 10 x12 on the rear with the only difference being an inch taller. No issues, no rubbing.
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Thanks that was the info I was looking for, most of the 26" tires I found were wider and not sure if the wheel offset would clear. Thanks
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Airshot, that 25x8x12 and 25x10x12 is your tire size. 25" tall, 8" wide, on a 12" rim. The RIM size is 6w x 12t with a 4/2 offset. That means the face of the rim where your lug nuts mount is 2" from the bead on the outside half, and 4" from the bead on the inside. The rear is 7 x 12 with a 4/3 offset. The 26" tire I used are 26x9x12 on the front, so 1" wider and 1" taller but the same wheel with no issue, nothing rubbing, and 26 x 10 x12 on the rear with the only difference being an inch taller. No issues, no rubbing.
Thanks Kpkitten, thats very good info to have.
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So I am starting to reconsider the 700i UXV. For a few reasons. One being that my dealer has them. another being that I think I want bucket seats. They have pretty much the same storage minus the tailgate storage (Which I do love on the 450) Does anyone here have any experience with the 700i? Seems most the talk on the forum is around the 450i, which kinda says a lot in a way.
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my brother has the Arctic Cat badged version of the 700, solid UTV, he has no complaints, but not much else I can tell you as I don't see him that often
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Trying to remember back but some time ago they had some issues with I believe was soft cam shafts that were prematurely wearing out. I am sure that was a while back and would believe the issue was fixed by now, just thought it might be something you might want to look up to be sure. Keep us posted, many of us responding to your posts feel like we are there with you so when you pull the trigger do post some pics!!
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Trying to remember back but some time ago they had some issues with I believe was soft cam shafts that were prematurely wearing out. I am sure that was a while back and would believe the issue was fixed by now, just thought it might be something you might want to look up to be sure. Keep us posted, many of us responding to your posts feel like we are there with you so when you pull the trigger do post some pics!!
I definitely will airshot! I am going to take a trip to Kingsport Tennessee to Kingsport Cycles its about a 2hr45min drive but they have 450s in stock an have a little test track I can drive one on. So hopefully after that I'll know more. But will probably be waiting till after first of the year to pull the trigger. Want to get our taxes done and make sure everything is good there. We know how the IRS can be! LOL
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Is the turf model worth it? To have the ability of open/unlock the rear diffirential. One wheel drive 2wd 3wd 4wd and true all wheel? All the others have 2wd 3wd and 4wd locked front correct? So my question is is it worth it to have the turf model to open the rear diff?
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If your doing a lot of driving on nice grass then it may be an advantage, but be aware the turf models do not come with aggressive mud type tires, more of a golf cart type of tire. I can see another linkage there that might cause an issue with hard riding. I use mine on my grass all the time and have not had a problem, but then again we don't hot rod on the grass...once we get to the stone drive or the north 40 then all bets are off!!
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Clutching question.....Does the UXVs have a centrifugal wet clutch? What type of clutching does the 450 have? Anyone have any information on this??
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Cvt trans
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Cvt trans
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Correct I understand its a CVT continuously variable transmission (belt driven) But isn't there different type of clutching in them? Wet clutch vs dry clutch??? What does all that mean
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Correct I understand its a CVT continuously variable transmission (belt driven) But isn't there different type of clutching in them? Wet clutch vs dry clutch??? What does all that mean
Watch this
https://youtu.be/uCEvBGT8twM
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Correct I understand its a CVT continuously variable transmission (belt driven) But isn't there different type of clutching in them? Wet clutch vs dry clutch??? What does all that mean
Yes, it has a wet clutch housed internally. What you see in the Team video represents what most snowmobiles and Polaris ATV clutch's are like where the primary clutch is mounted directly to the pto end of the crankshaft. In a lot of ATV's, including the Kymco, the clutch has another system that has to come into play before the machine moves. There is a centrifugal clutch housed internally that shares a common shaft with the primary clutch under the clutch cover. This internal centrifugal (wet) clutch has to start spinning and engage in order to spin the primary that's connected to the secondary by the drive belt. This extra process is the lag or "disconnect" people refer to and why they sell wet clutch delete kits. Make sense?
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Thanks K9 for clarifying that. I'm no mechanic so I wasn't sure myself.
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Well the verdict is out!........Made the trip up to Kingsport Cycles today in Kingsport Tenn. They had several 450i UXV in stock. Had a nice tricked out LE with mirrors top tilt windshield bumper and winch and the wheels. Was the gold color. It looked good. They had a plane jane camo, well take that back, it had a roof as well. Actually all theres 450s had a roof. The camo was probably my favorite. They also had a red one in stock as well as a used red one 2015 model with 148 miles. And I may end up with that used one even though I dont care for the red. It was owned by an 80 year old man. WOW i just have to say what a sweet machine all in all. Very well laid out. Plenty of room. Very comfy bench seat. I loved it to say the least. So off to their test track we went. Man this things is so full of torque! Its definitely there. Steers and handles great. Obviously in 4wd diff lock it takes a little more to turn it but not bad. Its the perfect size IMO. I dont know why more manufactures can't understand that this is the size they need to bed. Its no bigger than the largest atvs. The lid on the hood can be a little bit of a pain to get back seated properly but not a huge deal. Now I just have to find the best deal. So far my local dealer is not hitting on much. I'm not tipping the 10 grand scale on one of these. They can forget it. I'll just buy out of state and come back pay my sales tax. Camo with roof and winch was 8800 out the door in tenn. the LE all decked out was 9400. And the used one was 6000 (6500 if I want to add a warranty one or two yr), has winch and hard top and windshield.
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I liked the camo unit also, but do be aware it is a coating on plastic and my fear was it scratching off. If that happened then what would the machine look like? The gold color LE is pretty awesome and actually not a bad price considering what all your getting. I really did not want the fancy wheels, I preferred the stock steel wheels, they are stronger and the fancy wheels are alum and after riding on salt covered roads in the winter the alum wheels can begin to look nasty, at least my neighbors do. From what you have posted the used one (hardly used with 180 miles) appears to be the best deal, but your the one making the payments. The factory roof looks awesome, I was going to delete mine but when I looked at aftermarket roofs, that factory unit looks sweet!! You will find the dealers don't deal much on these no matter where you go. Keep in mind they are still about 2 grand less than a similar model from the big box mfgrs. If I were in your shoes, I would go for the used model with an extended warranty but that's me.... I knew once you tried one out you would like its compact size...that is the exact reason I bought mine!!
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I liked the camo unit also, but do be aware it is a coating on plastic and my fear was it scratching off. If that happened then what would the machine look like? The gold color LE is pretty awesome and actually not a bad price considering what all your getting. I really did not want the fancy wheels, I preferred the stock steel wheels, they are stronger and the fancy wheels are alum and after riding on salt covered roads in the winter the alum wheels can begin to look nasty, at least my neighbors do. From what you have posted the used one (hardly used with 180 miles) appears to be the best deal, but your the one making the payments. The factory roof looks awesome, I was going to delete mine but when I looked at aftermarket roofs, that factory unit looks sweet!! You will find the dealers don't deal much on these no matter where you go. Keep in mind they are still about 2 grand less than a similar model from the big box mfgrs. If I were in your shoes, I would go for the used model with an extended warranty but that's me.... I knew once you tried one out you would like its compact size...that is the exact reason I bought mine!!
I agree Airshot. It is one sweet little machine. Well its really not little by any means its a stout lil beast! I dont care for the red nothing wrong with red. My last ATV I bought was red, just wanted a darker color. But heck at the price of the used one, if the red really bothered me I could get it dipped or painted or wrapped for that matter and still come out ahead. The machine was sold at this dealer new, so they have done all the maintenance on to this day. One thing they did tell me was that the ole man that had it put wheel spacers on it. The kind that goes over the lug, not like an actual jeep or other wheel spacer. Anyway he had done this cause someone told him it would make it more stable. Long story short the left rear wheel one of the lugs broke on it. They ordered the part, was back ordered took three weeks to get it. The man got tired of waiting traded it in on one of the UXV 500 with the generator on board. The wheel and lug has been fixed. The machine is in all stock original form. Has a warn vantage 2000 pound winch, with rocker switch only. They said they can add a wireless remote to it for me for like 75 bucks! So I can same some bucks on this used one, still do all I want to do to one of them and still come out ahead. It has a one piece windshield, I dont like it but at least it has one for now till I get one like I want that folds. I could easily cut the current one to fit the back to put on in the winter time. None the less had a very good experience today. Now just have to decide when to pull the string.
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I will say that my 450i camo has a couple hundred miles in the woods and has been under overhangs, over bushes, and through the tress aplenty. I don't abuse it but got it for hunting and the camo has held up very well. I don't even think it has a scratch on it so the process is very good. I think the used one which is hardly broke in for 6k would be an excellent buy. You ain't gonna find a new one under
8K and they are great machines. ! Good luck with whatever you buy.
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Jew8201......the extension switch for the winch is simple, I just added one to mine for plowing snow. The rocker was fine for trail use but the constant use with a plow and heavy gloves made the rocker difficult. Mine is a KFI and the corded switch was a plug and play so now I can use either one, the long corded one plugs into a socket. I would not worry about the lug being broken, the dealer fixed it so it is a mute point. Your machine....your choice but that used one keeps sounding better all the time but I would get the extended warranty especially at that price. Glad to hear the camo coating is holding up on folks machines, that one had me worried. As far as the one pc windshield....cut it in half like I did, just use the bottom half in summer then I add the top when it gets cold to help block the wind. Where you cut it, just add a small 40 degree angle to help stiffen the windshield, then I added a small piece of angle aluminum across the upper half to help stiffen it up from wind forces pushing it in.
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Jew8201......the extension switch for the winch is simple, I just added one to mine for plowing snow. The rocker was fine for trail use but the constant use with a plow and heavy gloves made the rocker difficult. Mine is a KFI and the corded switch was a plug and play so now I can use either one, the long corded one plugs into a socket. I would not worry about the lug being broken, the dealer fixed it so it is a mute point. Your machine....your choice but that used one keeps sounding better all the time but I would get the extended warranty especially at that price. Glad to hear the camo coating is holding up on folks machines, that one had me worried. As far as the one pc windshield....cut it in half like I did, just use the bottom half in summer then I add the top when it gets cold to help block the wind. Where you cut it, just add a small 40 degree angle to help stiffen the windshield, then I added a small piece of angle aluminum across the upper half to help stiffen it up from wind forces pushing it in.
Airshot, is there anyway I could get some pictures of exactly what your talking about with your windshield??
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Well boys looks like I'll be bringing home a Red 2015 Kymco 450i UXV here in the next week, week an a half. Couldn't pass up the deal 2015 model slightly used with 148 miles. Has windshield (which i'll probably change at some point. I want a folding windshield.) Has kymco roof top, warn vantage 2000 lb winch. Winch only has the rocker panel switch, they added a wireless remote for the winch for me. And thanks to Kurt at Off Road Body Armor it will come with installed accessories of Doors, half front bumper, tree kickers, rear bumper, and bed rail protectors. For the deal I got it was a no brainier! So soon as they call me with the accessories installed I'll head to kingsport Tenn to pick her up! To bad it want be here for the snow they're calling for. Oh I also purchased a two year warranty From Kymco.
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Sounds like you made a great deal. Do post some pics of the new ride when you get your hands on her. As far as the windshield goes, I would not want a one piece windshield as it would be to hot in the summer. If it is plastic (lexan) you can easily cut it. Many like myself have a "half" windshield, actually about a third if you were to measure it. A short piece that rises about a foot above the dash board, this keeps debris off your face when buzzing down the trail but allows cooler air to come inside sort of a defector so to speak, Then the upper portion either hinges or comes off completely. I chose to remove mine completely, but could convert it to a hinge if I wanted to. I only use the upper section in the cold winter to help block the cold air. A lot of heat comes into the cab over the summer from engine heat which the full windshield will trap in the cab, but a half windshield will allow that heat to pass thru from the blowing air.
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Sounds like you made a great deal. Do post some pics of the new ride when you get your hands on her. As far as the windshield goes, I would not want a one piece windshield as it would be to hot in the summer. If it is plastic (lexan) you can easily cut it. Many like myself have a "half" windshield, actually about a third if you were to measure it. A short piece that rises about a foot above the dash board, this keeps debris off your face when buzzing down the trail but allows cooler air to come inside sort of a defector so to speak, Then the upper portion either hinges or comes off completely. I chose to remove mine completely, but could convert it to a hinge if I wanted to. I only use the upper section in the cold winter to help block the cold air. A lot of heat comes into the cab over the summer from engine heat which the full windshield will trap in the cab, but a half windshield will allow that heat to pass thru from the blowing air.
So what would I need to do in order to make the existing one piece windshield a folding windshield?? Cut it and put one of those long thin metal hinges in it??? Also how would the folding piece secure down once folded as so it wouldn't flap around?? I wish Seizmik would come out with one of their folding windshields like they make for the polaris ranger and rzr Thats the ideal windshield IMO.
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Providing the windshield is lexan plastic which most are then just remove it from your machine, usually a strap clamp holding them on. Lay it down on something so it won't get scratched. Decide on where you want the bend joint and make marks with a sharpie pen. A good sharp carbide tipped saw blade cuts this stuff with ease. I usually cover the plastic with painters tape on both sides so the saw does not scratch while sawing. After you cut it you need to sand the edges smooth then install a stainless steel piano hinge availiable at most hdwe stores. The lower half will be remounted with the same strap clamps as were originally on it but be sure you have at least 4 straps to hold the lower half. The top half will then hinge up and down and lay on the front hood when it is down. There you will have to design a way to hold it in place when it is down and may also want to design a manor in which to hold it up in position. That is why I do not hinge mine, I just remove the upper for the summer. With that upper half laying on the hood, all types of trail debris can get on it and scratch it. Mine originally had a fold down windshield on it also, but I had the dealer remove it (especially at almost 450 bucks) and just made my own for about 180 bucks. I didn't like the idea od having that other half on there collecting dirt when plastic is so hard to clean anyway.
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Providing the windshield is lexan plastic which most are then just remove it from your machine, usually a strap clamp holding them on. Lay it down on something so it won't get scratched. Decide on where you want the bend joint and make marks with a sharpie pen. A good sharp carbide tipped saw blade cuts this stuff with ease. I usually cover the plastic with painters tape on both sides so the saw does not scratch while sawing. After you cut it you need to sand the edges smooth then install a stainless steel piano hinge availiable at most hdwe stores. The lower half will be remounted with the same strap clamps as were originally on it but be sure you have at least 4 straps to hold the lower half. The top half will then hinge up and down and lay on the front hood when it is down. There you will have to design a way to hold it in place when it is down and may also want to design a manor in which to hold it up in position. That is why I do not hinge mine, I just remove the upper for the summer. With that upper half laying on the hood, all types of trail debris can get on it and scratch it. Mine originally had a fold down windshield on it also, but I had the dealer remove it (especially at almost 450 bucks) and just made my own for about 180 bucks. I didn't like the idea od having that other half on there collecting dirt when plastic is so hard to clean anyway.
Thanks Airshot. Thats what I was thinking and had in mind. I'm sure me and my brother will come up with what will work best. He is quite good with fabrication of anything. I'll keep shopping to and maybe I'll find something that will suite me. The windshield thats on it is nice. Kinda dont want to cut it in a way.
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Can't say I blame you for not wanting to cut your new windshield. You will find when hot summer gets here you will want the cooler air blowing in your face, on a slow trail ride the heat off the radiator comes back at the firewall and into the cab. With a full windshield it will get warm in there, but with a half windshield, it is no problem. Like all UTV's there is no insulation on the firewall as there is in a car and a much shorter distance from the radiator in the UTV to the plastic firewall.
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Can't say I blame you for not wanting to cut your new windshield. You will find when hot summer gets here you will want the cooler air blowing in your face, on a slow trail ride the heat off the radiator comes back at the firewall and into the cab. With a full windshield it will get warm in there, but with a half windshield, it is no problem. Like all UTV's there is no insulation on the firewall as there is in a car and a much shorter distance from the radiator in the UTV to the plastic firewall.
How are the windshields that pacific eagle offers? I think I like your idea of just leaving the bottom half fixed to the machine and just remove the upper half in the summer heat. But then again its nice to have the option to flip it up and secure it in the event it started to rain or down pour if your out riding.
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How are the windshields that pacific eagle offers? I think I like your idea of just leaving the bottom half fixed to the machine and just remove the upper half in the summer heat. But then again its nice to have the option to flip it up and secure it in the event it started to rain or down pour if your out riding.
I just started selling the Pacific Eagle windshields on my website, you can read about them here
http://www.offroadbodyarmor.com/kymco-windshields.html
I have one on my KYMCO UXV 450 and it's awesome, especially with the vent.
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I just started selling the Pacific Eagle windshields on my website, you can read about them here
http://www.offroadbodyarmor.com/kymco-windshields.html (http://www.offroadbodyarmor.com/kymco-windshields.html)
I have one on my KYMCO UXV 450 and it's awesome, especially with the vent.
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I like that one you linked. Does it have the quick connect/disconnect clamps? It doesn't look like it folds which is ok.
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I like that one you linked. Does it have the quick connect/disconnect clamps? It doesn't look like it folds which is ok.
The ones im selling for pacific eagle are the two pc ones with the quick disconnect clamps. I like the two pc design where you can take the top off without having to rest the pc on the hood and have it flop around.
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The ones im selling for pacific eagle are the two pc ones with the quick disconnect clamps. I like the two pc design where you can take the top off without having to rest the pc on the hood and have it flop around.
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That's perfect that's what I'm looking for when summer rolls back around. I've debated the folding kind for simple fact of putting it up in the event of getting caught in a down pour. I think seizmik makes the best one. Like they have for the Polaris ranger and rzr that fold. Until there's something like that for the UXV 450i I'd just assume take the top half of the windshield off completely.
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Well I picked up my new to me 2015 red Kymco UXV 450i (148 miles) It was a deal to good to pass up. I got a warn wireless winch controller added in the deal. As well as the Off Road Body Armor accessories financed in as well. It looks awesome outfitted with the accessories. I had a chance to drive it some earlier in the week. It is a sweet machine. Plenty of power rides good. Not overly load. I love all the storage. Although I'm not sold on the latch on the storage in the rear on the tailgate. Could be a little better. No need in power steering either. WOW the steering is so light as in don't make any sudden movements with the wheel! I'm coming from riding atvs all my life. So side X sides are obviously different and will take some getting used to the handling and overall feel of the machine. It handles great though! Could turn a little tighter but it's not bad, just stomp the pedal an power slide it around anyway lol. Now it does "feel" tippy a little bit but I think when I adjust the shocks and stiffen it up it will feel better. It's not unstable by any means. Overall it's perfect. Show me a better machine for THE MONEY and I'll go trade tomorrow lol. For the price you truly can't beat it.
Now for the off road body armor accessories if you own one of these and don't have them do yourself and your machine a huge favor and get them ALL!!! They are well worth it. Kurt and his team there has done a fantastic job with them. The fit and finish is excellent. The welds are perfect. No modifications needed to the machine to make the accessories fit. They bolt right on and are very strong. The doors they are genius. I love that they lift right off like a jeep door. I will say when the door isn't latched don't lean on them or put any weight on the pin that holds them. They aren't designed to bear weight I don't think when unlatched. Don't take that wrong they ARE STRONG DOORS. When they are latched (bear claw latches with cotter pin just like a car door) you can by all means lean out an over the door putting weight on them when it's closed. Does that make sense?Anyway just buy them!!! You want be sorry. Kurt is down to earth and great to deal with. Their customer service is 5 star. If not for him I would of never gotten my accessories financed in to my deal. Never crossed my mind. In the process ORBA was able to add another dealer to their network.
Now other things to do or come. Mirrors. Some crab handles for the roll bar above the doors. Mud flaps under the front wheel wells, see the mud flat thread. And maybe a different windshield and roof down the road. I have the kymco factory roof it's ok but Hines racing performance has an aluminum I like. I have a full windshield but would like a half lower and upper or folding just the option to take the upper off. Maybe some lighting or different headlight bulbs. Anyway I've rambled enough. I love the machine. It's awesome and don't think there is a better one on the market for the money. If I can get some pics to upload I'll add some later.
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Providing the windshield is lexan plastic which most are then just remove it from your machine, usually a strap clamp holding them on. Lay it down on something so it won't get scratched. Decide on where you want the bend joint and make marks with a sharpie pen. A good sharp carbide tipped saw blade cuts this stuff with ease. I usually cover the plastic with painters tape on both sides so the saw does not scratch while sawing. After you cut it you need to sand the edges smooth then install a stainless steel piano hinge availiable at most hdwe stores. The lower half will be remounted with the same strap clamps as were originally on it but be sure you have at least 4 straps to hold the lower half. The top half will then hinge up and down and lay on the front hood when it is down. There you will have to design a way to hold it in place when it is down and may also want to design a manor in which to hold it up in position. That is why I do not hinge mine, I just remove the upper for the summer. With that upper half laying on the hood, all types of trail debris can get on it and scratch it. Mine originally had a fold down windshield on it also, but I had the dealer remove it (especially at almost 450 bucks) and just made my own for about 180 bucks. I didn't like the idea od having that other half on there collecting dirt when plastic is so hard to clean anyway.
Airshot what kind of folding windshield did yours have on it before you had the dealer remove it before your bought it? Do you remember???
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Do not recall the brand name, but it was hinged in two places so it could fold down without laying on the hood, but it would stick out catching all the debris while riding. Besides that it was pocket change shy of 500 bucks and I knew I could do better making my own. As far as being caught out in the rain, your windshield isn't going to do much with 3 other wide open sides. I have been in a couple decent rains and as long as the wind isn't blowing the roof does a great job, but kick in some wind.....you will definitely need rain gear which I carry with me all the time anyway. Hey you have plenty of storage compartments, start filling them!!
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Do not recall the brand name, but it was hinged in two places so it could fold down without laying on the hood, but it would stick out catching all the debris while riding. Besides that it was pocket change shy of 500 bucks and I knew I could do better making my own. As far as being caught out in the rain, your windshield isn't going to do much with 3 other wide open sides. I have been in a couple decent rains and as long as the wind isn't blowing the roof does a great job, but kick in some wind.....you will definitely need rain gear which I carry with me all the time anyway. Hey you have plenty of storage compartments, start filling them!!
This is true airshot! Man I went riding today over at my buddies where I deer hunt. Had to take some cameras down and some stands. I put that thing through PURE HELL today. Unintentionally I must say. But it held up very well. We got some good trails made in the process. Steering sucks! But least we got reverse. lol It was blast, and I think this is going to be a good machine over time. I'm usually pretty easy on stuff. But these woods today were a mess with down trees an such. The skids got a torture test I'd say. But nothing broke today, maybe a few light scuffs here and there. Stock tires suck. My biggest gripe......GROUND CLEARANCE IS NOT WORTH A $H!T IN STOCK FORM. I got high centered two or three times. Once coming up out of a soupy creek bed. If I'd of had 1-2 inches more of ground clearance would of been cake. Had to winch out. I plan to crank on the shocks first of the week.