Just to add to what's already been said. The lack of low end on a DS is because of the plugged up stock exhaust. The new end cap, or aftermarket slip-on with rejetting fixes the problem. After that the DS pulls like a train.

 

The LT was my former ride also. After going to the Baja, I could go faster due to the much upgraded suspension. Long trail rides were not nearly as fatuguing. I think the 450 motor is pushed quite a bit harder and might not have the longevity as the Rotax but it would be awesome to only be 350 pounds. You also don't want to be mistaken for a Raptor on the 450 would you?

 

I think with this statement... you'd be happier on a DS.
I ride mine on 350-500 mile runs through Mexico (see my Mike's page) and simply love it. I wouldn't be too happy on an MX track since I'm not too concerned with removing weight on my DS. The heavier it is on long runs the more of a cadillac it is. If you're used to the LT and was happy with it.... I'd stay with the DS. How crappy would it be to have to rebuild the 450 every 40 hours (or whatever they're recommending as the Honda CRF450 is every 40hrs) over the DS's ability to last a looooong time and be dependable on long runs.

Those quads to me, are two totally different machines. In almost all aspects. I'm 6'2 and 200lbs.... the Yamaha feels like a friggin little kids bike after being on my DS. And after doing my suspension mods.... my DS has some serious plush suspension (thanks to Works Front Shocks and Precision Concepts rear revalving) that loves the whoops, jumps or stutter bumps on any terrain.

Sounds like your on the right track.
And don't be hesitant to ask a question that may have already been hammered into the ground... it's a legit question. Shoot.... any question is a legit one!! You should read some of mine. [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-blush.gif[/img] Oh gawd! LOL!

 

Again, thank you for your usefull imput. I haven't bought a quad in about 12 years. With all of the great choices available now I want to be sure I'll be as happy for the next bunch of years. I've decided on the X. I'll be getting it when I come back from Haydays, September 8th. Can I ask what a good price is for one. The best I got so far is $6250 plus tax.

 

SOLD!!!

I paid 6800 for my baja 5 months ago! However I would not trade it for any of the other bikes out there. I have rode several bikes, but have never felt as much torque as my DS. I have rode banshees, and like the power feel you get out of it. You will find that the DS seems like it is slow when you ride because of its size, but once you start whoopin up on the competition you will find (like i did) that it was just an illusion. The DS is seriously fast in my opinion, and would have never expected a bike to handle the weight as good as it does.

The comfort is unsurpassed. You WILL NOT be dissapointed my friend. I can ride all day, and the only thing that hurts is my neck from wiplash...J/K [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif[/img]

 

6'2", 296lbs. 04 X... nuff said

peace