First let me say I am not an expert rider but am experienced. Got My Raptor 3 weeks ago so I am still getting used to it. It is Piped and has a +3 Lonestar axle. Raced a buddies 400ex that is also piped and jetted on an MX track. He has had his ex for about a year so is fairly comfortable on it. He started off in front of me, not a holeshot, thats just the order we got on the track. He seemed to be really cruising but I kept right with him for the first 2 laps then I came to my senses and realized I should have passed him already. Went on by him and never looked back. Chalk one up for the Raptor. We then switched bikes and I flat out could not keep up with him. I definitely was not used to his ex and he has ridden another Raptor several times. He flat out spanked me while he was riding my Raptor and I was on his ex. I really was not impressed with the 400ex. In no way am I knocking it because it is a bit easier to corner but the power just wasn't enough for me. He later told me about the other Raptor he rode(stock) and said he wasn't impressed with it but after riding mine he wanted a raptor set up like it. After having ridden a piped 400ex I can definitely say I am still very pleased with my Raptor purchase, and yes, they CAN kick *** on a motocross track. I have also been able to easily hang with the 250cc bikes out there, not saying I am blowing their doors off but they sure aren't blowing mine off either.

hmmmmm maybe I'll pick up a 400ex for my wife....she needs something kinda slow!! Just kidding guys the ex rips too! Whatever you have, enjoy it! It's all about having fun!

 

I've had the same experience. It's hard to imadgine a scenario where the Raptor woouldn't out perform the EX. They're not in the same class at all. If you're going out to buy a new sport quad today, get the Raptor.

Since the raptor is going to cut directly into sales of the 400EX, maybe Honda wil be forced to come out with a 650EX sooner rather than later. Then the real comparisons can begine.

 

There is no way that you can hang with the 250cc bikes on the track! Unless they are a beginner and can not ride to well. Glad to here you like your raptor though and yes with the right mods its a great quad.