ok so I've been debating for at least 2years now about getting a new quad. when I heard kawisaki was coming out with a 450 it literally kick-started my heart again.

currently i have a 2006 DS650X, I love it...power is great, top end is amazing, looks mean as hell...and is RELIABLE AS ALL HELL. BUT its just to heavy when i have to turn it around on tight trails.

SO, KTM and Rotax... I trust rotax, i was really concerned with all the negative posts i hear on the web about how the DS450 is a pile of crap, over heating, cracks in the block... but after talking to Ron Wood yesterday, he said that the one they have is 100% solid. no overheating, even in a the shop where they lit it sit and run (no moving air).

KTM is about the same price, I can get a new 450XC for $5,999 without and haggling... not bad

I'm sure I could go to my local dealer and get a Can-Am for less. What does everyone on here think?

Know anyone with a USED either?

 

For tight trails you will miss that low end torque of the big bore if you go to a 450 class quad. I've ridden both and for me the high strung 450's just didn't fell as forgiving on the trails. Have you considered a Raptor 700. Its smaller/lighter than the DS but still has the low end grunt and reverse to boot.

 

I know yamaha has been growing and changing as other companies also, but I had an old yamaha almost try and kill me.
I am worried about the loss of torque feeling... but I figure with a chasis that weighs less I'd get over it

 

The KTM 450XC quads have a longer stroke and smaller bore than most 450's giving them a lot more low end torque. I've heard the 525's are awesome machines and very torquey. I would get the 525XC if possible. If you were racing though, I think the DS would be the machine to get.

 

Smucker's in Albany,Or. has got them on sale for $5125.00 check it out!!!!

 

i've only heard my fan come on once, and that was when it sat idling in 90degree heat for awhile.

As for a lack of torque, mine has plenty of low end power, if you need more just drop a tooth on the front sprocket.