Newbie in search of answers

[MtPockets]

Hey guys!
I am considering buying a used sled, probably an older (95-05 model) and would like some opinions on what to look for.
I live near the Big Horn Mountains in North Central Wyoming, so that is mostly where I'll be riding. I have NO intention of doing stunts and/or hill climbing, I just want to have a way of getting out of the house in the dead of winter. There are SOME groomed trails, but I don't necessarily want to limit myself to that, either.
I realize that everyone has there 'pet' brand, but what models of the different sleds are generally more reliable? I don't mind fixing stuff, but I'd prefer NOT to do that while stranded 20 miles from the nearest road!
Also, what should I be looking at (mechanically speaking) when it comes time to buy something?
Thanks for the help!

 

[Crossfire Ditchbanger]

$?

the first question you need to ask yourself and answer for us is the amount you're willing to spend on a sled, that will help everyone point you in the right direction!

 

[diggerdown]

If I were looking for a cheap general use sled for the horns I would look for a 03 or 04' 700 pol. with a 144" track. Dual runner skis set the trail fantastic, the 700 was the best engine pol. ever built, and the sled just plain worked well in the deep. I had one with a 151" track and it climbed way better than you would imagain. Only downside is that they are carbed so jetting comes into play, although if you are just always riding up top it is no issue. The doo 700 was also a very good engine but the sled did not climb as well as the poo did. Late 03' model cats and forward were good tough sleds with good engines but do not ride as nice on the trails as the other two. Yammis were not the best choice once yo left the trail.

 

[Extreme-One]

I would say an Arctic Cat 2004 900 151" EFI. No need to jet , easy to maintain and over all work good, with plenty of power. The 700 Polaris is also a good option, but I would stay in the 151" track range.

 

[sledrider]

05 M7 that motor runs forever and plenty of updates avaiable.

 

[indyseriesnick]

the Polaris rmk 700s are nice in the mountains with the 151" track. the 700 engines from polaris have been bulletproof over the years (especially late 90s early 00s)

 

[Bacon]

For off trial, you can't beat the M7. For all around good sled, I would look for a Rev 800.