I'm new the world of ATV's, no riding experience. I would like to get a sports quad, but which one? I'm 6' 170 lbs live in So. Cal. and would like to do some trail riding. What would be a good quad that's easy to maintain and learn on?

Thanks

 

What kind of power are you looking for?.....cause being a new rider its smart to no get something to big.....especially sport quad.....but look at a mid range like 300 to 400CC range......the honda 300ex is great bike.....i had one and loved it....great trail ride.....also honda is very reliable......or the raptor350....z400...but none as reliable as honda although i have a raptor 700 so i know both sides.

 

As for power, I don't really know. It needs to have enough power to get me around and up hills, but something I won't get bored with after awhile.

 

look at a 300ex they have enough power to get u ware ever u want

 

One of the 400's, either the Honda 400EX or the Suzuki Z400. Both are excellent handling machines, of high quality, and well sutied for So. Calif. riding. I like the EX for slower tighter trails, and the Z400 a little more for faster trails and the open desert. Both are tame enough in stock form that a beginner can learn on them, but even an advanced rider won't get bored on one. Both engines hop up pretty well, later when you are ready for some extra power.

I see you are in Redlands. We have a great group of riders from the area, a lot of them from here in the forum. PM me if you want to join us sometime, or need some advice!

We ride the high and low desert, local SB mountains (my personal favorite), Sierras (Mammoth/Bishop), and dunes.

 

Z400 or 400EX. And no I am not a broken record.

 

I would say a Raptor 350, maybe... it may just be that I'm a Yamaha guy, but I think they are a pretty decent quad. You can lug it around as you first start out, but it can open up pretty good when you decide to do so. Depending on how fast of a leaner you are, I don't think I would reccomend one of the 400's, unless you plan on takin' it easy for a while. The 350 has around 20 ponies stock and can mod up pretty good, too.

 

I have to say that I have not ridden the Raptor 350, but it is based on the old Warrior, which I did ride for years! The engine is ancient technology compared to the 400EX, and the EX is ancient compared to the Z400. (The Raptor engine is a 2 valve air cooled, and heavy like a brick! The EX is a 4 valve air cooled, and has a reputation for being about the most durable engine out there. And the Z has a moderately high strung, 4 valve, water cooled engine that likes to rev.)

As far as the frame goes, the basic frame hasn't changed from the Warrior, but it has different shocks, and some ergonomic changes. For me, the Raptor just isn't worth even considering when the two superb 400's are available!

Are you thinking about something new or used???

 

the z400 has been having a couple of little problems.....that could be a problem....also when i rode the z i felt like it was a little tipsy so...yeah and i am 5'7'....both ex's ride a little lower......if you get used and go towards the 400 you might want to decide if reverse is necessary cause in trails....it is for me...the 400ex has only had it for i think two years..

 

Currently looking at both new and used, but haven't decided. The 400ex appears to be a good fit. I've been looking through atvtraderonline. Is there any other online source for used ATV's?