For those looking into the 650, I'd highly recommend.

I just bought a 2008 outlander 650 max xt ( get the xt pkg, it's well worth it). So far, plenty of power, sounds like a beast of a bike, and is exactly like the 800 just shy of 150 cc though.

I'll post more as I go, Haven't had it long enough to tell how it handles on the trail.

Also skids are a must, the stock skid is fine for smooth trails, but if you venture out to windrock or places that are rougher than a gravel road, I'd recommend the ricochets. The Brp brand skids are fine, just they do not protect the footrests as well.

Also the visco lock is supposed to engage in half the time as the 2006-2007 models.

Scott a 650 will hang with a 800 all day long unless its a long straight away..

At 55 Horsepower I'm sure the 650 will get the job done.

The 650 outlander max hendles well out on the trails( everywhere i have been it has) only the added length of the max has its drawbacks. It is a little harder to make the tight turns unless you don't mind hitting the fenders on the trees. And i found it also has a tendacy to get high centered sometimes(But everything out there has its drawbacks). The max does do hill climbing real well. I know adding weight to the front end does keep it from raring up.

Only thing is the stock Carsile radials aren't as good as a tire as the Bighorns or most aftermarket tires. Soon I'll have to replace these with either some newer ones or just break down and buy the Bighorns and be done with it.

Go with the BigHorns. You will not be sorry. IMO the best trail tire out there with there awesome side gripping they will make a good rider a great rider.