Ask the Editors: Which Sport Quad is Right for Me?
Dear ATVC: Been looking for some opinions. Currently been riding a Yamaha Warrior 350 for the past 6 years. Only quad I have owned and know em pretty much in and out.
That being said I like the quad but been looking for something more.. I’ve been eyeing up the 450 class but the main thing holding me back would be lack of reverse and high maintenance (compared to the Warrior).
I have been looking at possibly the LTZ 400/400EX or the Raptor 700 but feel like the 700 is just too much for my needs and seem to be more expensive around here on Craigslist.
So what do you all suggest, get a 400 and maintain reverse and easier maintenance, get the 450 or 700? Pros, cons, anything helps especially from those who have rode em. Cutch
Unless you’re looking into Yamaha or Honda, your search for a 450 is going to take you into the used sector. The good news is that not all 450cc race machines lacked features you’re looking for: The Kawasaki KFX450R and Polaris Outlaw 450 MXR both came from the factory with reverse.
Maintenance can be an issue if you put a lot of miles on your machine or ride it hard/ race it but by and large, a well maintained (fluids changed, valves checked) 450 can be expected to last many seasons of regular riding.
The Honda 400EX would likely offer the least step up in performance from your Warrior of all the ATVs you’re considering. The LTZ400 Suzuki Quadsport (or either of its alternate trim packages- Kawasaki KFX400 or Arctic Cat DVX400) will be much closer to the type of performance typically associated with the 450cc class machines but with a wider-ratio transmission good for trail riding. Plus the aftermarket support for this machine is positively massive.
Lastly the Yamaha Raptor 700R is a solid choice if you happen to ride in areas that allow for wide ratio/ high speed conditions (like the desert for example). Otherwise a good deal of the heft associated with the bigger mill will work against you in low-speed/ technical situations. However, on the plus side the big 700 will last you nearly indefinitely if maintenance is a concern and it can be geared down for torque easily enough with some sprocket and exhaust changes.
