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Over the course of the last years I've seen less and less ATV's on the trails and more folks moving to side by sides. The popularity of side by sides continues to build steam as we seen on our latest trail ride at Brimstone Recreation in Huntsville TN. Not only did we observe less ATV's on the trail we rarely seen anything but newer UTV's.
On this day my daughter and I were piloting a 2012 Rzr 800. It had been almost a year since our last visit here and the terrain had changed considerably. Our factory Rzr 800 could literally be driven between the tracks of the popular fire breathing Polaris and Can-Am 1000's. We're always up for a challenge and the rutting of the bigger UTV's provided this.
Throughout our ride it was apparent from the trail footprints that the 1000's had certainly been dominating the Brimstone scene. We did pass an occasional 900 Rzr and Can-Am 1000, but the Rzr 1000 certainly appeared to be most folk's choice. The bigger tires the 1000's ride on and the horsepower to spin them do leave their mark. Even with the rutting on the more difficult, red trails, our Rzr 800 did everything we asked it to, even though it could have won the award for the oldest Rzr of the day.
What has virtually became extinct at Brimstone (at least on this day) was the traditional ATV. Five years ago ATV's were the majority on the trail, but the smooth riding, family friendly and sporty side by sides have gained popularity. ATV's are still my choice when I ride solo, but our 800 Rzr allowed us to comfortably and safely navigate through the Brimstone trails.
The Honda Rancher 350 is undoubtedly one of the best selling atv's of all time. Recently we had one of these legends in our stable and tested it off-road. For those folks out there in the market for a used and capable quad that gets the job done this review will give you some information to help make a decision. This model is a 2004, ES (electric shift) version with full-time 4x4 and keep in mind the 2004-2006 350 Rancher is virtually the same.
The Rancher ES 350 is a more feature oriented quad than the base model 350 Rancher with foot shift. To compare the differences between the two click this text. The Rancher comes standard equipped with a single cylinder 329cc engine (advertised as a 350cc), 32mm carburation, 5 speed transmission with reverse and full-time 4x4 (means it stays in 4wd) and weighs in at 520 pounds. The cosmetics and rack system appearance changed in 2004, but it uses the same running gear introduced in 2000.
Off-road the Rancher 350 is a no frills ATV, but is balanced and predictable. With the factory Dirt Hook ATV tires the Rancher 350 is able to traverse moderate terrain, but a good radial atv tire would improve ride quality and traction. It steers fairly easily for a full time 4x4 quad, mostly credited to a open front differential. The Rancher has drum brakes all the way around and they provide good stopping power when everything is working correctly. The Rancher 350 offers a wide range of usable power with plenty of low end torque and good top end that holds its rpm good in first, second and third gears no matter the resistance the terrain provides. More extreme off-road terrain will require some momentum to make it to the top, just make sure you have ample room to build that momentum.
Over-all this is a solid, balanced, tough and reliable atv. These can be purchased used in the $2500 to $3500 price range, depending on condition. When buying in the lower price range expect areas that may need attention: front-rear brakes replaced, seized rear brake pedal lubed, pull starter cleaned, valve adjustment, carburetor rebuild and a battery. The Rancher 350 4x4 is a great value and will last for many years properly maintained.
Over the course of the last years I've seen less and less ATV's on the trails and more folks moving to side by sides. The popularity of side by sides continues to build steam as we seen on our latest trail ride at Brimstone Recreation in Huntsville TN. Not only did we observe less ATV's on the trail we rarely seen anything but newer UTV's. 
