So I just got back from the Oregon Dunes in Coos Bay and rented an atv with my dad. I have been riding dirt bikes since I was 8, so 9 years, I'm 17. I was originally trained on an ATV but my dad bought me a dirtbike and have been riding them since with the occasional ride of my friends ATV in his neighborhood. So we rented 2 trx400's since it was their fastest bikes. We rode the dunes and I regained my love for ATVs like that. I'm selling both of my bikes but I dont know anything about ATVs. I'm stuck between a Raptor 700 and a YFZ450. My main riding would be light trails and mainly dunes because I live two hours from Moses Lake. I'm not looking for a small atv. I'm set on one of these two. So based on my riding purposes, what would be best?

 

If you will be mainly riding trails and Dunes the Raptor will by far be the way to go.

 

Both are excellent machines, I prefer the sharper handling and bigger hit of the 450 motors. The 700 is more comfy to ride, and is no slouch, just delivers the power a bit more casually. It also will allow more time between rebuilds than a 450. Dune riding is one area that quads are absolutely better than bikes. I call it the "natural habitat" of the atv, lol

 

I'd say if you are looking for mainly a duner with some trails, the Raptor is the best choice. The 450 will be a harsher ride with a harder seat....if you were going to use it on the mx track as well, I'd go 450, but with trails and dunes, you can't beat a Raptor 700. Excellent comfort, tons of power and you will be using it for exactly what it was made for!