Best side by side

[rnh1]

What's the pros and cons of John Deere Gator Cub Cadet Kawasaki Mule and Polaris side by sides?

 

[Green Power]

Each have their pros and cons, Mules are work animals but cant go fast. Polaris is pretty much a jack of all trades. What are your uses? What is your budget? What is the most amount of people you will transport in one trip?

 

[jimgerken]

No single right answer. Even if you can define the mission exactly, it will change over time. I bought the sportiest one I could find that still actually works. I was looking for a hydraulic dump box, large enough box for a pallet, rated to carry 1000 lbs or so, and I wanted easy-in, easy-out, and power steering because I knew I was going to add snow tracks to it. the Gator 825i was the only one that had all that. To it we upgraded the wheels, tires, and shocks. It rides great, works hard, is fun out in the road. Only goes 43 mph topspeed, but without a cab that is faster than you need anyway.
so, define your mission, list your requirements and wish list, set a price point, and go test driving. In another thread, there is talk about ergonomics. If the machine doesnt fit you, or getting in and out is too much work, you won't use it. Think ahead a few years to when you will slow down and stiffen up.

 

[jeff9366]

I have a Kubota RTV500. The defining feature of Kubota Utility Vehicles, gas and diesel, is the HST transmission.

If you are going to WORK your utility vehicle select one with an HST transmission.

Take time to look at the battery-powered Polaris too.

 

[Xfaxman]

We have the battery powered Polaris Ranger EV. It has a 30 horsepower AC induction motor, amazing torque and 25 mph top speed. Has downhill regenerative braking that charges the batteries!

I recommend a glass ventilated windshield and a top. Don't know where you are located, so you may need a full cab.


My Ranger EV thread: http://www.tractorbynet.com/forums/atvs-utility-vehicles/287792-electric-polaris-ranger.html

 

[rnh1]

I was thinking about one for fire dept use. Carry fifty gal spray rig for brush fires transport people and supplies after storms

 

[jeff9366]

I was thinking about one for fire dept use. Carry fifty gal spray rig for brush fires transport people and supplies after storms

You should have put these two parameters in your opening post.

Now, how many people do you foresee transporting? How much does a full fifty gallon spray rig weigh?

At what altitude will rig be used? Power drops with altitude.

Would rig start from a firehouse or be trailered to fire site?

For this type of high stress work it seems to me a four passenger utility vehicle, with an HST transmission and diesel engine would meet the basic requirements.

You would not want a gas engined rig in fire situations. You would want a diesel for safety and long range.

 

[DIXIEDOG]

For that use either the JD Gator 825i or the Polaris Ranger full size would be a great choice. JD offers a 90 gallon sprayer as a factory option if memory serves me right.


The Kubota RTV 900 or 1100 would both serve you as well but not knowing how much offroad use it would get I'd lean toward the Gator or Ranger to have true 4wd and reduce your chance of getting stuck...you will also have a lot quicker machine...especially in the hills.

 

[cartod]

The gator 825i seems to be the best of both worlds. Good at work and play. With a 1500lb capacity and a top speed of over 40mph we really like ours. The independent rear suspension also gives a nice cushy ride.

 

[WTC67213]

Look into the Intimidator UTV's out spec all listed in payloads and towing capacities. 1,000 cc diesel and 750cc gas available. Classic series (standard bench seat and bed) or truck series (6' longed with aluminum fold down sides)

 

[Green Power]

How about a 4 seat Kawasaki Teryx?

 

[texasjohn]

Everybody likes what they have.

So, I think an Kubota RTV 1140 would be just right. Not a speed demon, but I've pulled huge loads with it and it has the convertible bed/extra seat. Easy in and out. I predict that if it is going to be for fire fighting you will be hanging hoses, hoes, axes, pumps, water tanks, extra trailer behind, etc. all over it. The Kubota platform has lots of options for adding extras. You would need to have the air intake up high to avoid intake of dust and cinders. It's diesel and HST. Some people think it's underpowered, but one simply needs to understand how to select the proper gear and to drive an HST. I've been able to climb any hill if I could maintain traction.