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For quite a while I had been researching all of the different big-bore ATV's, wanting to get back into a new quad. For a long time I did a lot of searching, riding, and reading before stepping into a 2005 Honda Rincon.
The reason I chose the 2005 Rincon is because it had an independent rear suspension, and it seems to be a really good trail ride. Where I live there are lots of rough trails, so anything that was equipped to handle them would be a better choice for me. First off, I want to discuss the power and the motor. Power is excellent in this quad, and you will hit a wheelie if you go wide open on the throttle and pull back hard on the bars. It's not super strong, but Hondas are known over anything else for their reliability and longevity. Honda engines are known for their build quality, and the fact that they last so long, so choosing a Honda over some other engine means choosing to own the bike for a longer time.
The strongest feature for the Rincon would have to be its suspension and handling. Although that is stymied by the three-speed transmission, it still turns very easily and accurately. It's also easy to brake loose and power-slide the rear end. It's awesome for riding on open roads, logging, or fire roads as well. The faster you go the better you feel, and you always feel in control of your machine and the road. The IRS especially helps handle the rough logging roads because it has such a good amount of ground clearance.
The main problem as I see it is the three speed transmission's issues when driving up and down really steep hills. The first gear is too tall for serious trail riding in very rugged and steep conditions. You cannot crawl at really low speeds on technical trails. It's simply not made to go that slow with, but it can go REALLY fast. This is a great bike in the flat or hilly country, but not in the "hollers" where I live where almost everything is as challenging as the most steep technical hills.
Long story short, the 650cc Rincon is an excellent bike for regular logging trails, flats, and most offroading. But when it gets really squirelly, you're probably going to want something with better gears, or that is designed for technical hills and challenges. I would recommend this quad for most recreational riding, scouting, and riding in general, but not when things get really tough. It's quality, and has Honda reliability, but for specific jobs you need the right tool, and this was not the right tool for me.
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