Best "recreation 6x6 AATV" & why ?

[Toyman]

I am wanting to purchase a pair of 6x6 AATVs for recreational use. I plan to operate these on all types of terrain. They must be fast but be able to crawl slow over obsticles and climb steep inclines. Have the best approach angles for deep ravine entrances and exits. Two or 4 stroke engines are fine and I'd prefer the T-20 transmission. Hull material is not extremely important but prefer the modern materials. Load carring capabilties a plus and it must be able to swim. I previously owned a pair of MaxIIs with JLO295s and really like them for many reasons but think there might be a better designed rig available. I currently have a Terra Tiger & Muscateer. The Tiger lacking reverse is not going to work well so it will more than likely be going bye bye once it's restored. The Muscateer is a keeper till I can find a better replacement. I am not interested in the 8x8s as I want it to be very compact for tight turnabilties.

Here is a chance for everyone to express their opinions on what they think is best 6x6 AATV for recreational use?

[brushcutter]

Given your criteria, MaxIV, Hustler or Argo(non t-20 but capable machines). I'm not gonna say one is better than the other, because there are too many variables i.e. driver, motor, tires, tub design...And it also depends on your definition of "recreational" riding.

As far as starting to kick the "best aatv" DEAD HORSE around AGAIN I think that has been done enough:both on this site and the other one also. And all to no good resolution. So lets get this straight -every body repeat after me:my (say your favorite models name)aatv is the best! LOL

I kinda subscribe to the belief that no matter how new or old it is; when I'm working on it: It's a POS! But as soon as I'm riding again: It's the BEST!LOL!

[Toyman]

Dead horse

Given your criteria, MaxIV, Hustler or Argo(non t-20 but capable machines). I'm not gonna say one is better than the other, because there are too many variables i.e. driver, motor, tires, tub design...And it also depends on your definition of "recreational" riding.

As far as starting to kick the "best aatv" DEAD HORSE around AGAIN I think that has been done enough:both on this site and the other one also. And all to no good resolution. So lets get this straight -every body repeat after me:my (say your favorite models name)aatv is the best! LOL

I kinda subscribe to the belief that no matter how new or old it is; when I'm working on it: It's a POS! But as soon as I'm riding again: It's the BEST!LOL!

Sorry if this has been beat to death in the past (I'm a newby here). I know all to well people will have their favorite brand names just as we all do with autos, trucks, cycles etc. I really don't want to bruise any one's ego just would like to hear from those on this site which 6x6 AATV they prefer and why? As I stated above I plan to purchase a pair of 6x6 AATVs and would like some input from those that know them best. I really would rather not have to purchase every brand & model to sort this out. Maybe I should just PM a certain person on this site that has practically done this? Nope, that would only be one opinion .....................but it would be a start.

[Mike]

The best way to see which one you like best is to go to a group ride. There is no perfect machine and at a group ride you can see where one prevails over the other and then choose what you like based on what kind of riding you will be doing. You can really tell which machines struggle with which obstacle when there are a lot of them.

On our group rides usually if rdr struggles getting out of a mud hole with his Max IV, I do as well with my Max II all while the Argos are climbing right out. The same goes for other mud holes, the Argos may have trouble where we just pop right out. All AATVs can be stuck and all of them can be outmanuevered by other AATVs in certain situations.

I know it's not the answer you are looking for but really the only way to pick the right one for you is to get together with others. Good luck with whatever you decide.

[coosaridgerider]

Hi toyman,I own 2 maxll and 1 argo.It is really hard to say witch one i like the best,The argo shifts better than the max and has a low gear that comes in handy when your pulling someone out or in a tight spot where you need a lower gear.The argo with the engine in front makes it nose heavy in water and going down steep hills.The max feels more stable going up or down steep hills but you have to compensate for the motor being off centered while your in water.The max seat is smaller and not as comfortable as the argo.If the max engine was centered and bigger and more comfortable seat with a low gear and shifted better it would be my favorite.All aatvs have there goods and bads,you would think max or argo would correct some of the problems and make a better aatv for the outrageous prices of a new one.

[liflod]

My vote would be for the Max IV. If you get the 25 Kohler and some minor mods, it will actually go fast. You get manuverability, cargo capacity and the ease of maintenance without having to lift the body to do it. Granted, the rear chains and T-20 are a pain to get at, I think its easier than a Max II to work on. If you don't like sitting way out front, just move the seat aft and safrice the rear seat leg room. 26" tires are also a +.

Lance

[brushcutter]

Toyman, no need to apologize dude, actually I was just trying to have a little fun with the Dead horse thing, sorry, didn't mean to be taken seriously on that!

Anyway, something else to consider is how much you want to pay for them. I traded a $100 shotgun for my first Max and scrapped it together, but a guy made me a really good offer on it so he got it. The Hustler 950 I have now I paid $150 for and I have between $4500 and $5000 in it.

Since they are still in production Argo or MaxIV unless you want to get into hydros. I have never ridden in an Argo, there don't seem to be many of them down this way, but they are really popular up north. The Max tub will have more ground clearance than the Hustler due to the area under the Hustlers' center axle which has about the same effect as tying a 2x4 under the tub at that point. The Max has a more "open" design, as does the Argo, Muddox and others, but this same area makes for a great place to put your bilge pump:as it allows both chain channels to drain into the center of the tub.

[Toyman]

The best way to see which one you like best is to go to a group ride. There is no perfect machine and at a group ride you can see where one prevails over the other and then choose what you like based on what kind of riding you will be doing. You can really tell which machines struggle with which obstacle when there are a lot of them.

On our group rides usually if rdr struggles getting out of a mud hole with his Max IV, I do as well with my Max II all while the Argos are climbing right out. The same goes for other mud holes, the Argos may have trouble where we just pop right out. All AATVs can be stuck and all of them can be outmanuevered by other AATVs in certain situations.

I know it's not the answer you are looking for but really the only way to pick the right one for you is to get together with others. Good luck with whatever you decide.

Great idea Mike! I will be looking into attending some of these once I get one of my AATVs in good working order. I'd be sweet to see a large gathering of machines to checkout. I did post a desire to rally with the area AATV owners and got one to reply. I'm sure there are many around here that are just not active in group rides or events.

Hi toyman,I own 2 maxll and 1 argo.It is really hard to say witch one i like the best,The argo shifts better than the max and has a low gear that comes in handy when your pulling someone out or in a tight spot where you need a lower gear.The argo with the engine in front makes it nose heavy in water and going down steep hills.The max feels more stable going up or down steep hills but you have to compensate for the motor being off centered while your in water.The max seat is smaller and not as comfortable as the argo.If the max engine was centered and bigger and more comfortable seat with a low gear and shifted better it would be my favorite.All aatvs have there goods and bads,you would think max or argo would correct some of the problems and make a better aatv for the outrageous prices of a new one.

This is exactly the type of input I was hoping to get. A very good comparison of two machines in how they handle and feel in various conditions. Thanks Coosaridgerider. I forgot but now remember some of what you expressed about the Max II. Never rode in a Argo before and don't think I'd like the front being so heavy but would really like the low gear option. Both of my Max IIs shifted well.

My vote would be for the Max IV. If you get the 25 Kohler and some minor mods, it will actually go fast. You get manuverability, cargo capacity and the ease of maintenance without having to lift the body to do it. Granted, the rear chains and T-20 are a pain to get at, I think its easier than a Max II to work on. If you don't like sitting way out front, just move the seat aft and safrice the rear seat leg room. 26" tires are also a +.

Lance

I like what I'm reading; Fast, manuverabile, cargo cap.,ease of maint., and legroom to boot! I am 6ft tall and could use some room up front. And 26" tires would certainly get my vote. Never seriously considered a Max IV. Will now!

Toyman, no need to apologize dude, actually I was just trying to have a little fun with the Dead horse thing, sorry, didn't mean to be taken seriously on that!

Anyway, something else to consider is how much you want to pay for them. I traded a $100 shotgun for my first Max and scrapped it together, but a guy made me a really good offer on it so he got it. The Hustler 950 I have now I paid $150 for and I have between $4500 and $5000 in it.

Since they are still in production Argo or MaxIV unless you want to get into hydros. I have never ridden in an Argo, there don't seem to be many of them down this way, but they are really popular up north. The Max tub will have more ground clearance than the Hustler due to the area under the Hustlers' center axle which has about the same effect as tying a 2x4 under the tub at that point. The Max has a more "open" design, as does the Argo, Muddox and others, but this same area makes for a great place to put your bilge pump:as it allows both chain channels to drain into the center of the tub.

Budget constraints are always there. I have a policy that if it's something I really enjoy spend alittle more than less but get the most bang for your buck. I've been very lucky to stumble onto many good deals on toys in the past. Ouite often (not always) they gave me a good return on my investment when sold.

Thanks for the tip about the Hustler verses Max ground clearance. The prices I've seen the Muddoxs go for put them out of reach for me.

[brushcutter]

Yeah, I would say that in a few years a guy might pick up a good used Muddox at a good price, and probably can up north, but as far as i know Mudbug is the only person to buy one down this way. That kinda narrows the chances. But hey, riding with a buddy is almost as good as owning your own almost...

[mudbug3]

Brushcutter, ( QUOTE ) " But hey, riding with a buddy is almost as good as owning your own almost.

[chapy]

"Never rode in a Argo before and don't think I'd like the front being so heavy"





with the argo being nose heavy if I almost always have 2 bags of coal(80lbs) in the back on the floor. doesn't effect the performance and it levels it out nicely in the water. I really like my argo but i have never ridden in another machine. So far I havn't had any problems with the argo. few maintenance things but thats normal.

[Toyman]

Buddy

Brushcutter, ( QUOTE ) " But hey, riding with a buddy is almost as good as owning your own almost.

Unfortunately I've yet to meet or visit with anyone nearby. I'm certain there are many AATV owners around here.