I have a 300EX, and I love it. We have ridden many miles together..lol But lately since my friends have bought YFZs, Banshees, and Raptors, I just can't keep up. Some days we ride technical trails and my Rancher 420 does great. I'm usually jumping onto their quads to help drive them through stuff...But on regular wood trails, whoops, and fields. I'm in the dust. I have looked at Z400s, Banshees, and most of the 450s. I had a Banshee when I was a kid, and I loved it.. I'm leaning toward another one, but am I going to be disapointed? Help me decide..I'm sick of dusty goggles.lol.

 

Any of the new machines are 100-times better in handling and ergonomics than your old Banshee was......

I ride with modded 450s on my z400, and in the woods I can stay right with them..... of course when the trails open up they pull away......

If you don't mind the maintenance of a 450, they are nice....

The z400 is a great all around machine that responds well to mods....

The Raptor 700 is a great machine that many people suggest is the best sport ATV on the market....

 

It also depends how deep your pockets are too. The new KTM's are phenomenal. Not only does it have a great engine, but the suspension is fully adjustable in every way possible. That's where the fast guys gain all their speed.

I'd also agree with the post above. The Raptor 700 is a great all around machine that has more power in stock trim than you'll ever get out of an uncorked 450.

 

If i were you i would strongly consider the YFZ450. Yamaha has been in the 450 sport quad game the longest and they have had enough time to refine their machine. Also in all of the 450 shootouts i've seen, the YFZ always comes out on top. Now, if you had the money the KTM would be the best choice. If it werent for the big price tag then the KTM would be the top choice.