The basic rule of thumb is to multiply the gross weight of your vehicle by 1.5. The gross vehicle weight includes a full tank of gas, the driver and passengers, and all of the tools and gear you carry along with you. Weigh your fully loaded vehicle on a truck scale for the most accurate total, or if you can’t weigh your rig on a scale, estimate the gross weight as precisely as you can.
This total gives you the
minimum rating needed for your rig. Note that this is only the
minimum. If you wheel in mud, the sucking force of the mud will make your winch work harder. The same rule applies to other situations where getting unstuck requires extra power. When you’re trying to decide on the best winch size, take into account where you ride and how bad you might get stuck.
IMO, a 3000lb winch is the minimum and a 5000lb winch is cheap insurance. The difference in price is not that great. Also, a "wide spool" winch is always better.
Another thumbs up for Moto Alliance...ya can't beat the customer service! Here's a 4000lb wide spool with everything you need for $283
Viper Max 4000lb Winch Mount with 65' of Steel Cable for Yamaha Viking | eBay
BTW: Moto Alliance now makes a 6000UTV winch.