The DS650, KFX700 V, and a piped Polaris 400 suit big guys very well and are all a blast. Raptor is powerfull and fast and tippy. Predator,YZF450,450r are all great, but a little on the small size they have plenty of power though.
In all I don't think there is a best quad. Only the best quad for you. Try them all and have fun! [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif[/img]

 

Here is my opinion. I had a '97 Banshee that had normal mods like pipes, filter, degree key etc. Very quick and fun. Sold it and got a 400ex. Yes I loose more often when we drag race, but for me we would only spend about an hour drag racing anyway. The rest of the day I am having just as much fun as ever, probably more because I can ride longer. Looking at the type of riding you do any of the bikes mentioned would be fine. I would say get the bike from what ever dealer you have the best relationship with, and can get a good deal on that bike. I personally am leaning towards the trx450, may not be the fast in a straight line but overall.....time will tell.

 

I'm 5'-10" and ~190 lbs naked. I feel just fine on the YFZ and it can get me up any hill I tell it to - any.

 

I am 6'1" and I feel just fine on my YFZ450, I never go less than 3rd gear up Sand Mountain.

OH! except for the hard seat, but I only notice that when I am at the dunes. ( I do a lot more sitting)

 

Another thought that no one has touched on.

The banshee needs to be rebuilt every 3 years or so.

The raptor has the starter problem

The predator has a tranny prob.


Don't know if DS, or the 400s have a particular prob.

But I have been hearing a lot about how the new 450s are put together. Single rings, pancake pistons, sounds like these are gonna be similar to the shee as far as time between rebuilds.

I would still say raptor/ds unless your a real serious sand racer and don't mind wrenching your motor once ina while

 

I think the new 450's have a little more piston skirt than their 2-wheeled brethren, and another ring too. Not sure but I believe that's the way they are.

 

WOW, I haven't rode naked in years![img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif[/img]

 

Of course my vote is for the DS 650X. Great bike out of the box. Put some sand tires on it and you have a great sand machine ready for the wickedest of dunes! Alot of other good bikes out there, but my new X is my pick.

 

 

Great minds think alike!!!!!