Hey. I'm a somewhat un-proud 300ex owner that just got back from a trip. I was sitting under my bike screwing with the chain when a guy I talked to earlier came up to me and asked if I wanted to ride his yfz 450. At first, I didn't think he was talking to me, but I took him up on the offer after my brain figured out what was going on. He pretty much wouldn't let me get off of it, so I started screwing around. I did about 85 with one hand (the other was busy holding my helmet straight) and launched it about 5 feet into the air, and landed flat. upon landing, I realized that I was missing alot. My 300 would have slammed and bent another set of A's and rounded out another couple shock bushings, and i could barely tell i had landed on the yfz. My question is this. Is the 400ex suspension close to/as good as the 450r. I don't really need the power (for that type of money) and really need to move up. Will I notice a HUGE IMPROVEMENT over the 300, or do I need to move to a more impressive model for that. Any and all comments welcome.

 

LOL, the 400EX is pretty good, but definately not on par with a 450 suspensionwise. Of course, you can upgrade the suspension on your 300 for less than getting even the 400. If finances dictate and you want to stay Honda, get the 400. If you do any amount of really slow riding, get the 400. Otherwise splurge on the 450.

 

My 400EX has aftermarket suspension, and it goes through the big whoops like a dream. My 450R has stock suspension, and it is even better than the EX! I have an 04, but the 06/07's have stiffer springs. All by buddies with 06's have resprung theirs.

One huge thing to consider though, is the type of riding you do. If it is mostly slower trails, you are way better off on the EX. It will lug down and doesn't mind being ridden slowly. The R on the other hand needs to go fast. It is geared tall and likes to run, so it is better for faster, more open trails or wide open country.