Thanks for all the replies regarding Oceano vs. Glamis dunes. I had a blast at Pismo and my first sand experience was a good one that will lead to many more. Swamp and mudd'n is my bread and butter, but I definitely have to spend some more time exploring the dunes. From what I hear a 250EX is a pretty good/cheap starter sand ATV, so I'll start my search. Is there another good sand ATV with more power, but still relatively cheap? With the 400EX, isn't it a pain in the butt to use the clutch to shift out on the dunes. Our 700's are all automatic to avoid mid mudd shifting. Thanks again for the info.

 

a 400EX would be a much better choice than a 250EX, as the 250's are way underpowered for dune riding. A 400EX is a great all round dune bike. Your not going to win alot of drag races, but the handeling, and suspension will get you out of some scary situations. They have excellent shifting, and I can't fore see any issue's. There are always tons of them running around the dunes. I've had mine back in some big bowls, and never had a problem with it. After you get some experiance, there are a ka-jillion after market hop ups for the 400 that will make it a rocket.
Justin

 

I wasn't aware that swamp and mud were a big passtime here in So. Calif. Where you finding this??? LA River bottom??? Holywood movie set???

Actually, our 250 does surprisingly well with a light rider and a set of paddles. But, just like in the mud, the sand will sap much of your power, so the more power you start with, the better. The machine does needs to be LIGHT, so it FLOATS on top and doesn't dig in. You aren't trying to grapple for traction here.

 

The mudd I'm referring to is found in Crosby, TX, about an hour northeast of Houston. I just recently left Houston behind for the bright lights and sand of LA. I am looking to purchase my first sport ATV which I am not afraid to admit I know nothing about. Unfortunately my budget doesn't allow for much more than a $3,000. All your advice is appreciated on what machine would be best to look for in my price range.

Thanks,
Ken

 

Yamaha Banshee= fun in the sand! You can find a used one in good condition for $3,000.00

 

Ken, welcome to So. Calif.! There are a million places to ride out here, but you have to drive to all of them. My favorites are desert cross-country and high altitude mountain trails.

Anyway, quads are like houses here, the prices are inflated. Look for a used sport bike, like a 400EX.

 

Listen to reconranger he's almost always right.[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif[/img]

 

reconranger def. knows his stuff about cali. where exactly r u located. LA is a big area. u might want to look into riding at gorman if u like trails. there's also dumont and glamis around if u want bigger dunes.

 

I live in West LA, near Santa Monica. Pismo was my first atv experience in California. I have a buddy who lives in Moorpark and I go up there every monday to play indoor soccer. If its alright, I'd like to potentially stop by sometime, see your machines and talk quads. I am having a hard time finding a good atv at a reasonable price, and my best option right now seems to be the warrior. My whole deal is I like occasionally failing and not making up a dune, and I think with anything over 400 the dunes will cease to be a challange.