OK, so I've really narrowed my search down to 2 quads, the new Raptor and the DS 650. I've been going to dealerships and alot of them are really dissing the DS for NH riding. They don't really down the bike itself, but they do for NH riding. Any of the guys who sell both say they'd go with the Raptor. And most of the bombardier only dealers say they don't really order them anymore because they don't sell and aren't "trail friendly." They say they're great for out west and in the dunes, but there not so good for out here. I've pretty much gotten this same oppinion from most of the dealers, even the strictly Bombardier dealers.

I'd like to hear some honest thoughts on this because I really like the quad, and I can get some great deals on some leftovers because they're not selling. One guy quoted me 5200 for an 05 X model out the door and I could tell he'd probably go lower.

Please, let me hear your thoughts, especially any NH DS riders if there are any! Thanks in advance.

 

The DS's in NH is probably about like the way Polaris used to be around my house...never seen. But now that they have pretty much dominated in the mud department, you seen them everywhere. So, dont believe everything you hear out of the masses. Just ask some guys on here who ride them on the trails. I think they will give you a little more insight. Good Luck.

 

What type of riding is done in NH. There are guys here from all over who ride every different type of terrian there is, and most are very happy with their choice. Most Bomb owners are very loyal for a reason. They have not been let down by their purchasing decision. I will say that the DS is hands down the most comfortable and best suspended bike on the market. If you are planning on mx style racing then the DS may be a little large, but if you are like many people who want a comfortable, reliable, fast ride then the DS is a great choice. It is especially suited for the larger riders. If you are 6' or taller this should be your only choice. If you are not you will still not be disappointed. I will not offer this as a unbiased opinion as I am a proud DS owner and would never even consider another ride. At $5200 I would grab it and never look back... unless I'm waiting for the Yamaha guys behind me.LOL

Sorry I have to take those shots when the opportunity arises.

 

Even in our dunes in Oregon we have tight technical trails, and I have no problem with it there. The amount of Tourque these have on dirt roads allow you to power spin any tight turns, lift the front end over obsticals at any point you want.

It is a tuff call, both bikes are very impressive and I am sure you would be happy with either choice. $5200 out the door is really good. Even now, after having mine for almost a year, and riding everyone elses bike I can try, would buy the DS again. I love it, and could go no where else for any type of riding.

My opinion anyways....

 

Im doing over 65mph on trails no wider than my ds650..[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-shocked.gif[/img]....Its perfect for me on smaller trails...i can really fly down them without any problems. Sure it can be a bit to big at times...but the other times it isnt to big it can go even faster..If i wasnt 6 foot 4 i prob would of chosen something smaller.....it can be a handfull for smaller guys at times i bet.

 

I used to ride on tons of nice wide trails in NH. Old railroad grades and snowmobile trails all over the place. Would have loved the DS back then. Don't see any problem with it getting around. You might want to upgrade the skid plates eventually, cause all them dang rocks up there killed my old skids.

 

I ride a lot a very tight technical woods trails with no problems. A couple of simple setup changes like 22 inch tires, a 14 tooth front sprocket, and an end cap, you'll have a good trail machine with soft ride and lots of torque. The DS has an unmatched factory suspension that soaks up the rough stuff better than any quad on the market imo. If you can get a better deal on a DS than Raptor, I would not hesitate.

 

is the 05 x brand new? if it is that is one hell of a deal. i take my ds more places than where my friends do with their 400ex's and predators so the ds is not too big.

 

First few rides the DS will feel big, after you get some seat time you feel feel right at home and be throwing the bike around no problem, providing your a big bloke. I have both the raptor and a DS and I can put the DS anywhere a raptor will go. Reverse would be nice in some situations, maybe wait for the 07 to come out and see what we get this year.

Gav

 

I personally don't like the DS outside of the sand, or wide open desert. However ,plenty of other people on here state it is good for them on trails.

i just don't like the fact that it has no reverse, and a PITA to turn around by hand!!