vetspet(ind)
12-02-2001, 07:42 AM
i keep hearing that i should get an atv vs snowmobile as i will probably find out soon that my otterskin magnumII will be difficult to pull far...i can buy a used snowmobile much cheaper than 4x4 atv used and am hearing from most of my friends that the snowmobile will be broke down much more frequently...at this time i see the unit i buy as primarily for ice fishing and moving the sled around on a lake...not so much..any? for trail riding but i have four kids who i like camping out with and people say i will find more uses with the atv as my kids are fair weather campers...any help on which way to go is appreciated...my primary intent is moving stuff on lakes for icefishing...steve
THUMPER
12-02-2001, 08:40 AM
I have both and find that each has its own merits. Early and late where there is little or no snow cover a quad is great. When you get some snow cover quads leave ruts.......quads on snowmobile trails are frowned on in my neck of the woods as they quickly ruin the trails. Quads on the ice can also be dangerous. Ruts or ridges that a snowmachine with suspension will glide over can be an adventure in a quad. For icefishing I use my snowmachine 90% and the quad the remainder. I also feel a snowmachine is safer on ice as I can power my way out of trouble if it finds me. You do not have that luxury with a quad. I am always happier to be on the sled than the quad out on the ice.
River_eye
12-02-2001, 03:13 PM
Steve, the way to get the most for your money is by buying a used sled. Although, it's not that easy. For every good used sled, there's about five that have been abused and are lemons.
ATV's are more durable, hence the higher resale value. They are good for the reasons mentioned above, and may well be your best choice for strictly lake use.
My guess is, if you do get a snowmobile, you will enjoy the ride much more, and it will be used more than you think. Personally, I'd go with a snowmobile, they're just too much fun.