After researching until my eyes are crossed Ive narrowed my choice for my first quad down to a KQ 450 or a CanAm 500EFI XT. I got quotes of $6700 (us) out the door (tax rate is 7.8%) for the KQ and $8200 OTD for the CanAm. I know Im getting more with the CA (winch, better tires/rims and HD bumpers) but which one is the better deal or is neither one a deal?
Obviously posting in the Can Am forum I expect most to side with the CA but from lurking in the background this board seems pretty straight on most things.
thanks in advance,
Steve
Well, if you're going to leave the KQ stock, it may be a better deal. However, if you figure in the cost to make the KQ the same as the CA, here's what you got;
Winch, wiring, frame, and roller: $600.00
Aluminum rims, tires: $750.00 (maybe more)
Bumpers: $300.00
Total upgrade cost: $1650.00, which brings the cost of your KQ to $8350.00 vs. the $8200.00 for the CA.
The real question is whether or not you really need fancy tires and rims, or a winch (this you MAY need), or heavy bumpers. My opinion is fancy wheels and tires are kind of a waste. They'll always be in the mud anyway.
The KQ is a good quad with very few if any problems. The CA is also good but has been shown to have some structural weaknesses such as fender braces and such, but I feel these are only a problem if the quad is abused. And, the CA is a faster quad when left stock.
I liked the look and feel of the KQ over the CA. The seating position of the KQ is just right for me, I liked the controls and how they worked, and I liked everything about the quad visually and ergonomically. So it was my choice.
And, with the $1500.00 you save, you have extra money to choose the accessories YOU want, whether it's riding clothes, luggage, whatever.
I think you can do better than $6700.00 out the door on the KQ. That's $200.00 over MSRP. But, if you like your dealer and trust them, and they have good service after the sale, it may be worth it.
Good Luck!
Jerry
