Im looking at a new 450 and have always been a die-hard honda fan. Not as quick and hi-tech as the others, but reliable and maintinance is easier. Ive narrowed it down to a few quads, really leaning towards the honda, but interested in the can-am or a nice, used ltr450. Budget is about 10k for mods and everything. I race mx and ice. I do ALOT of riding. Probably everyday once summer comes around. I want something that is easily modified, reliable, decent speed and will last. Rebuilds arn't a big deal to me, but I would like to get 2 years out of a piston and rings. It can be high maintinance, but not stuff that I would have to bring it into the dealer for all the time. So my real question is, what would you do? New or used? Problems with certain ones? Comfort/erganomics? Best mods? Thanks!

P.s. sorry for making it kind of long!

 

If you do THAT much riding, you won't be getting 2 years out of a piston/rings. More so if you are the type to bounce it off the rev limiter. It is a shame Suzuki is not still producing the LT-R, awesome machine and exactly what you are looking for I think. Modified the Honda is no slouch either and would be my choice out of the three you have listed. At least the earlier runs of Can Am had some quirks and while they put out good power on paper, it isn't as useable as most other 450 class machines. Still, I know a few guys that race them and they are competitive once you iron out a few details. Can Am may have even fixed the small issues by now.

If I was buying off the showroom floor, I would get the YFZ though. They are as reliable as a hammer, and replace the Ti valves with stainless at your first rebuild they get even better. Stock mx width, great shocks, and the trump card with the new slipper clutch. Hard to beat for the $$.

 

Honda is only behind in their utility ATVs with their dated OHV motors, but with their 450 motocross motors in their sport ATVs they are all very close.

If you read any 450 Motocross shootout (same motors used in the ATVs) no one has any real technical edge or power over the other.

 

Thanks guys, but a yamaha is a deffinate no-go for me. I just dont like them. Anyways, I appreciate the help

 

I now have it narrowed down to the honda and the suzuki. Unless a good deal comes around!!!

 

I have a 450r that I have modded with a 480 big bore jug,and a +3 crank to bring it to a 501. I absolutely love it!!!!!