I'm not into childish arguments but we weighed both machines wet(fuel,oil,etc.). The difference is closer to 67lbs. Both bone stock. Orginally anyway. We have also traded machines. Both of us are faster on an MX track with the Raptor(by far), as well as in the woods, and even the badlands. Unforetunately we have no local sand dunes. Both machines ride great. The DS is a good machine but the owner now has a deposit on a Raptor.
Also, I have approx. 85hrs on my Raptor. Very hard hours, I promise, with out any machanical failures. I also know for a fact that there is not one of the Raptors in the local area with a problem. Of the 20,000 or so already out there has been less warranty claims in the first 3 months with the Raptor than with the 400EX. I have know way of check on the DS warranty claims yet.

 

Its hard to get honest answers on this forum anymore. Be careful to what you listen to, and who.

 

get the ds they are better!

 

For tight woods riding..250R,For most other forms of riding....DS650 for muddin4x4 with lift &tires..for racing a heavily modded 250R.

 

Since I had the chance of riding both I can honestly say that both quads are one of a kind... Ask yourself those tough questions on what you need in a quad and with those answers you will pick the quad that is right for you...I'm just keeping it real!!!!

j/t
01 Raptor Blk/White A.K.A Maximus

 

This time next week we should know who is King of Baja. Both Yamaha and Bombardier have entered teams for the Baja 2000. Cycle West is racing the Raptor and Alba Sports the DS650 both are in class 25.

 

the DS650 won it this year.raptor didnt even finish.sorry raptor owners.im not saying you dont have a good bike,im just saying DS finished and raptors were hauled away on a flat bed truck.better luck next year.

 

If you are going to ride a lot of open desert you may be happier with the DS chassis in the end. But, from your first impression of both you seemed to like the feel of the Raptor. That may be most important.

I have ridden both. I prefer the Raptor personally. I like the precision response when you nail it. There is no hesitation or weak range in power anywhere in the RPM range. I has flawless power all the way to the top. It's also more suitible around here in these rough a** woods!!!