I am buying tonight

 

It all depends on what kind condition the used bike is in. For the 400 bucks you think you might be saving you can get a brand new shiny machine and a FMF pipe and the nerf bars and a K&N. If they are selling there machine for 4800 bucks they are trying to get what they owe on it. Now you can try and jew them down to 4200. then you may be getting a deal. But then again you also save on taxes if you buy a used machine. It is a big decision. But, if the used bike does not have any scratched and still is shiney and runs good. Look into it. Hondas are very reliable. I have found that it can pay to buy a used machine with all the bells and whistles can be just as good as a new one. I bought a 99 300ex with all the goodies. and I have not regretted it yet. I paid only 3100 for it, so at the time it was a steal. But before you get anything you might want to keep an eye open to the new Raptor. It is going to be something from the specs. anyway.

 

I agree with madmike, although the price and availability of the Raptor might not suit you.

Also, is the $5200.00 for the 400ex the out the door price? Does that include tax, title, registration, etc..?

 

I think you should go with the new one! Your really not sure what that bike as been through!!

 

For what it is worth I would check out the used bike carefully. Ride it, look for any cracks in the frame, look for dents around the outside of the rims, make sure the handlebars are straight, the usual suspects, etc. If it checks out then buy it. Or take the safe but more expensive route, buy the new one, ride it like you want, trick it out how you would like. Also, I don't know your riding style/ability, but the stock machine may be a better place for you to start.
I bought a pretty tricked out 250x and have loved it from day one, thought I broke it on day 2, then realized the dern thang needs gasoline to run properly.

 

Get the used one! hehe, if its 5200 out the door get the new one. If its 5200, plus tax, title and assembly (puttin on the handlebars!!) then dont get it. They charge like $300 to assemble it!! So 5200 out the door, get it, if not, go used