what size quad do i need

At your size and weight, a 400cc is a solid starting point. Something like a Honda 400EX or a Suzuki LT-Z400 will have enough power for trails without being scary. You'll learn proper throttle control and won't feel overwhelmed. A 450 or 500 can get twitchy in tight turns if you're new.

I'd say go for a 450 if you're patient. I started on a 450 at 5'10" and 200 lbs and it was fine. Just keep it in low range and respect the throttle. You'll grow into it faster than a 400. Plus, you won't be wishing for more power after a few months.

Don't overlook a 350cc either. My buddy is your size and loves his 350 Rancher for trail riding. It's lighter, easier to maneuver, and still has enough grunt for mud holes. Less weight means less fatigue on long rides.

Make sure whatever you get fits you properly. Stand over the quad and check the seat height. At 5'9", a 400EX or a Yamaha Raptor 350 should have you flat-footed. A big 500 like a Can-Am might feel tall. Sit on a few before buying.

Honestly, a 400 is the sweet spot for your size and experience. I've seen guys your size hop on 700s and end up eating dirt. Power-to-weight ratio matters more than displacement. A 400 will teach you body positioning and clutch control better than a bigger bike.

I started on a 250 and outgrew it in one season. If you're already looking at 400s, you might be okay jumping to a 450. Just don't go full throttle until you're comfortable. A 450 on trails is manageable if you're not racing.

Consider a 500 if you plan to do any hill climbs or deep mud. The extra torque helps a lot. But you'll want to add a winch and maybe bigger tires. It's a trade-off: more capability now vs a steeper learning curve.

Don't forget about maintenance costs. A 400 is simpler and cheaper to keep running than a high-performance 450. Parts are everywhere for older 400s. That matters if you're on a budget.

I disagree with the folks saying 450 is fine for a beginner. I've taught a few new riders and the 450s can surprise you with how fast they are. A 400 is more forgiving and you won't develop bad habits like revving too hard.

Your weight is actually good for a 400. Lighter riders sometimes struggle to get traction on 400s, but at 190 you'll have enough weight to keep the rear planted in corners. I'd lean toward a 400 if you're mostly trail riding.

Check the used market for a Yamaha Wolverine 450. It's a utility quad but still fun on trails. The independent suspension is great for rough terrain. You won't be doing wheelies but it'll handle mud better than a sport quad.

I'd say go with a 500 if you're buying new and plan to keep it for years. Resale on 400s can be tough because everyone wants bigger. But if you find a clean used 400 at a good price, that's hard to beat for learning.

Whatever you do, avoid the cheap Chinese quads. They're dangerous and parts are impossible to find. Stick with Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, or Kawasaki. A 10-year-old Japanese 400 will outlast a new Chinese 500.

At 5'9", you're right on the edge for many quads. The Raptor 700 is too tall for you without a lowering kit. A 400EX or a Z400 will have a lower seat height. Definitely sit on them before buying.

If you're worried about outgrowing a 400, consider a 450 with a throttle limiter. You can dial down the power while you learn and remove it later. That gives you the best of both worlds without buying two quads.

I ride a 500 and it's a handful sometimes on tight trails. A 400 would be more fun for your type of riding. Bigger isn't always better. You want something that lets you enjoy the trail, not fight the machine.

Also think about what you're hauling it with. A 400 is lighter and easier to load on a trailer or truck bed. A 500 may need a bigger ramp or help lifting. That matters if you ride solo.

I've seen guys your size on 350s and they love them. The Honda Rancher 350 is bulletproof and cheap to maintain. It won't win races but it'll go anywhere a 400 will. Plus, it's more comfortable for long days.

Don't rush the decision. Take your time and test ride a few if possible. A friend let me ride his 450 and I almost looped it. I got a 400 instead and it was perfect for learning. You can always sell and upgrade later.

One more thing: check the gearing. Some 450s have a close-ratio transmission that's not great for slow trail riding. A 400 usually has a better spread for trails. That can make a big difference in how enjoyable the ride is.