For 05's there is less than 200 bucks between these bikes. I'm a Honda fan but the Predator seems like a better deal. I know most pick the Z400 over a 400EX. I've only read good things about the Pred. I'm a little big for my old 300EX and am trying to decide between the three. I'm not rehashing this subject I'm just looking at one aspect "bang for your buck" between the three.

 

Sounds to me like you already have it figured out. Straight out of the box, the Predator is the better all around machine...suspension/handling (Fox Shox, Pro Steering with the no bump steer), power (about 36RWHP stock), and ergonomics (improved seat and taller steering stem). Well, ergos is probably subjective...but it fit me real nice.

Also, for a couple hundred more you can really have a nice ride with the LE or GNCC ('06) models. All the above with upgraded tires, Fox Shox with dampening rezzies, White Brothers E-series pipe, aluminum grab and bumper.

 

well know that the predator is the only one in your list that has Reverse, and it comes with fox shocks and all the other gizmoes he mentioned. you can see my new 06 LE pred if you click the picture thingy under my name. Predators, with the Troy Lee Edition gearbox are as fast as a stock Raptor 660, so you know how fast these machines can get up and go. the only draw back to the predator is how heavy it is, so its not an MXing machine, it can do stunts, but not like the YFZ's and 450R's do

i know its a little out of your ways, but if your planning on looking at one of these and want to buy it, go to Waynes Farm and Equipment in La Grange (next to louisville) he can give you a fantastic price on an 05 (around $5600) or a great deal on a 2006 (around 6000-6200). and talk to Jeremy, only talk to Jeremy, hes a good honest guy. if you need directions ask and i can hook you up.

the MSRP of my bike is $6800, i got it from Jeremy at Waynes for $6400 + 2 free oil change kits ($60 value)

if you wanna MX, ditch the preddy and go for the honda, but if your into trail riding, a bit of drag raceing, and all that good stuff, the pred is for you. the z400 and 400ex dont even fit into this group

 

plus, i'll start my job at waynes come spring. [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

The Z400 and 400EX have reverse also. Abernathyonline.com doesn't sell Suzuki or Kawasaki but they list an '05 Pred for $4,784 and Lee edition for $5,034. An '05 400EX $4,684. I don't race anymore but I used to race Harescrambles and Enduros on '87 and '89 250R Hondas. No MX for me just running quick on trails now. As you can see there is only a $100 difference between the '05 Pred and 400EX. I don't think the Pred is as dependable as the 400EX but you definitely get more for your money. I'm a big fan of Honda but the Pred is tempting.

 

Spyder6, Your mistaken about the Z400 & EX not having reverce. However I agree that for the type of riding KyJoe340 want's to do the Predator would be the better choice. Oh, If your going to work at Waynes you better brush up on your knowlage of different quads. No malace intended.

 

Pred is better in every aspect of the game, other than maybe price. But if you don't have the money, I'd go with the z400 as my next choice.


I don't know what you are looking for, but the new z450 might be pretty nice too.....but is more for race applications.

 

Doesn't sound like KyJoe340 is looking at 450's guys. Bang for the buck award goes to the Pred. You get better tires/wheels, more power, great suspension, and do they still warrant the axle and chain for life? Point is, for a few $$ more upfront, you get stock some of the more popular upgrades.

 

Oh, that burns me! Our dealer wanted msrp plus fees! Said he was only making a couple hundred dollars. [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-mad.gif[/img]

 

man, that's a killer price for the LE...I'd think you'd be wise to jump on that. You can then cross a couple nomal upgrades right off the list.