Looking to purchase a 2008 Brute

billybob11 · #1 (**permalink**) 12-29-2008, 08:09 PM

I am looking into a 2008 BF 750i. Right now there are some killer deals to be had on new machines.

First question is, how much power can be expected?
What are some important mods to do?
How reliable is the Kawi?

**1Bad1000Xxc** · #2 (**permalink**) 12-30-2008, 12:31 AM

BB,

I can answer a couple of your questions from what I've seen and one of our crew will respond that has experienced one personally.

The BF is a nice machine from what I've seen. Suspension is OK but could be better. Power is also better than average and has a lot of room for improvement where other brands don't have as much room.

What we've found is the BF sees a real gain from exhaust and airbox mods, more so than other brands of quads in it's class. Don't get me wrong.....it's very strong out of the crate, and has even more cabilities with some slight help.

From a suspsension standpoint, you'll find that the Grizzly 700 handles and maneuvers better, but the BF can be "helped" with suspension midifications.

If you do decide to go with the Brute, look into different tires as well which will further improve the hanling of this very well built machine.

We hope this helps.

B-Dub!

**BATTLEGUN** · #3 (**permalink**) 12-30-2008, 10:19 AM

My $.02

When I was shopping for my new quad, the 2009 Brute 750 was my second choice. Why? They are very powerful beating out larger class quads in that aspect. They have a tremendous following. That alone says something by itself, but another plus to this is finding spare parts should you need them. There are a lot of modification options and as B-Dub stated, they react well to these mods.

You are correct that there are some stellar deals out there right now on brand new machines in last years model. This applies to all brands and if you don't mind purchasing last years model, you can wind up with a very nice quad for a VERY good price! Happy shopping.

**GRIZZLYWIZARD** · #4 (**permalink**) 12-30-2008, 11:11 AM

Here are some points to ponder while you are considering the Brute.

1. Handling is less than satisfactory when compared to the other competitors. Frame geometry is one thing and quite possibly the only thing Kawie could change to make this a fantastic machine.

2. Power is very good throughout the entire range. Most notably the low end torque will put a smile across your face the moment you ride it.

3. If you are anicipating exteme riding or racing you will want to upgrade the tie rods. These are dangerously weak for this type of riding.

4. The 2008 BF has a lip around the hub which prevents the use of last years aftermarket wheels. The fix is to either use spacers on the hubs wheel studs or grind and 1/8" of material off your wheels you plan to use if they are made specifically for the 2008 year models.

5. The center handlebar display pod prohibits the use of aftermarket handlebars unless you fabricate something for use in relocating the information pod.

You may think I am bashing the Brute. I am not. I am simply highlighting the things I have noticed with my experience of the 2008 Brute Force. It's a great machine; however, every machine has it's pros and cons.

formguy · #5 (**permalink**) 01-01-2009, 07:16 AM

Quite a few of the guys I ride with have Brutes. These seem like great machines, but an aftermarket tie rod is a MUST DO. I've seen three stock ones break on one ride. Most of the guys with stock ones now carry spares. Don't let that keep you from getting one, other than that they seem like great machines. There's a dealer in this area selling '08s for $6599. Makes me wish I had the $$$.

**GRIZZLYWIZARD** · #6 (**permalink**) 01-02-2009, 01:21 AM

My opinion on the tie rods are as follows:

If you are a fast aggressive rider...UPGRADE them. It may prevent catastrophe.

If you are a slow to medium pace rider then by all means go to the dealer and pick up 2 extras, and zip tire or duct tape them to some tubing...The factories are cheap.

Grizz Rider · #7 (**permalink**) 01-02-2009, 04:34 PM

My $.02 is, there was an 08 brute on our new year's ride with us, by far one of the baddest machines there. Ran great, very fast! We rode on some old mining ground and it was alot of steep technical hills and tight trails. Brute was keeping up with my grizzly and my buddies 450R without an issue, and he had never seen the trails. I would say it is definately a good choice!