Another vote for Honda 500..
Srupp
Another vote for Honda 500..
Srupp
Once you ride a big Can Am (and get used to it) it is pretty tough to go back to anything else. Ride quality and power delivery is unmatched.
That said, you have to pay a lot more attention to what you are doing in technical terrain with that much power under your thumb. The 650 still generates a ton of jam, it just doesn't come on as hard or as fast as the big machines. I have always been fairly impressed with a buddy's 650 in what it will do and how easy it is to ride compared to my slightly modded 1000.
Go with another Yamaha. Love my Grizzly 700. Super reliable. Pulled out several moose with it.
If you dont want to buy new, I have a 2013 Yamaha Kodiak 450 that I will be selling in about a months time. Comes with a 3000lb winch, front cargo cage, back cargo box, snow plow and removable windshield. Windshield has 20km. Oh also just put brand new tires on it too. Tires only have 20km on them too (thats 20km in the snow. Have never been on gravel). Only selling as I have a new SideXSide. PM for more details.
BHB
Do it right and buy an import. Yamaha or honda. Honda is old tech but reliable. Yamaha is new tech, reliable, smooth ride and made for tough terrain.
Hunting the promised land
I'd go with a honda.
I ride a can Am 650 XT Max, three stage power steering. Ride's really nice, smooth and quiet. Seems like I'm the one always towing my buddies back to camp on their Yamaha's.