I currently race a 2002 ds 650 in a cross country series, in and around Oklahoma. The 650 is very wide and heavy so I have been kicking around the idea of racing the ds 450. I have looked at the 09 ds450X xc since it is already set up for cross country. The problem I am having with making up my mind is the fact that I can't find any feedback from anyone that is currently racing the 450 in cross country. The only feedback I can find is from the mx guys and alot of it is very neagative, such as bad clutch, frame breaking, swingarm breaking, a-arms, front and rear bearings, electrical and on and on. The tests I have seen on youtube are positive, but it is Canam people doing the talking. I have also noticed that when they talk about the suspension, they say it is set up ideally for a rider weighing from 175 - 195lbs in full race gear, and I weigh about 275lbs in race gear. So I need help! Thanks in advance.

 

Man I love my DS 650 but I'd get a KTM if in your shoes

 

Well!! you will have the normal negative feed back,depending were you look.I have a 2008 ds 450x model,I use it to prerrun and race dezert style racing,so far its been good,I like the fact that is easier to manuver than my ds 650,I read all the ,clutch brakin,frame cracking,etc etc!!
But my is fine till now!!over 1500 desert miles,one centershock link bushing,1 rear hub(came loose and stripped)I have +2 lonestar a arms,axle and axis front shocks,rear is stock shock.Probably you would have to upgrade shocks if anything!!
And they speak highly about the 2009-2010!!!

 

by the way!!! the KTM's have more issues!!!

 

i've never had a single problem with my 08, and i ride it hard, i cant see anything breaking on this thing, unless you roll it or smash into something. i've air'd it out good and road the **** out of it and it still runs great, no clutch problems either