I was in a similar boat a few yrs back. In CO there are a good proportion of atv trails are 50” limited. I ended up with a honda pioneer. Its no frills, relatively inexpensive, and climbs like a goat with the granny first gear. Tops out at about 40 mph. I put a roof, cargo box, windshield, bigger tires, bumper, winch and skid plates on her. I am all in for less than 10k.
It handles trails pretty well, and I have been pretty happy with its hauling capacity. Its a honda, and has had zero issues.
That being said, i have met a few guys with both 50” polaris and can-ams. They are much more “plush”, will leave me in the dust, but also cost a good bit more.
I will say that 50” machines are much “tippier” on laterally uneven trails and you obviously cant shift your weight like on a quad. I have had several times I thought I was going to tip over, and have on one occasion where I was on a trail I never should have been.
Overall, super happy with it for what it is and what my needs are.
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