This is my first post in this forum and I need some advice on which ATV to buy. I'm around 6' and 200lbs and currently have a 250EX. I used to own an ATC250R and miss the power and acceleration. The 400EX was my first choice but the peg to seat distance is a little short for me. I'm concerned about the reliability of the Raptor which brings me to the Cannondale or the DS650.

I ride mostly on my own 7 acres of woods with homemade MX trails. Since I own the property, widening the trails is not a problem. I also ride on RR tracks for miles at a time. Looking for any advice you might have about buying any of the above machines. I'm thinking price will be similar between the DS and Cannondale after mods to make them somewhat equal.

 

Havn't ridden a Cannondale, but it is suppossed to be the fastest production quad you can buy. On the other hand, every article I read on it has a paragraph on what broke during the test.

As for the DS, I've just finished breaking mine in and really love it. It's very comfortable and no slug either. I've been pleasantly surprised at how quick it can get around an MX track (I've only been able to use 3/4 throttle so far) and for trail riding it's an absolute rocket. The stock tires are not so hot, though. They don't hook up very well. Holeshots on race rims are the first upgrade on my list.

 

I'd say get the Bomb. Here in MI there's GOBS of used ones for $5000. That leaves you money left over to trick it out. After the '02 Raptors are out, I'd expect the price to drop a bit further. The Cannondale is awesome, but when you buy one you become part of the R&D team. Another year or so and I'd place them at the top of the list. I do envy the fuel injection.

 

moto 440!!not!!raptor baybe

 

ive got a 2001 black ds for sale ???? e-mail me if interested....bmcdirect@aol.com