Looking for new quad. My 400ex was dependable, loved my z400 power and reverse. Local dealer has 04 450R's for $5200 including fees, plus tax. My 400ex was hard to start especially in the winter, is the 450R kickstart a problem? Dealer claims 450R not as good in the woods due to gearing, low torque as low rpm's. Electric start and reverse are nice...but $5200 for new 450R! Any suggestions?

 

sounds lik a good deal i rather spend less on a 450r then say buying a z400 and spend 20 bucks on a smaller front sproket

 

Has the kickstart worked out for you?

 

The dealer is full of BS if he says the 450r isn't as good in the woods. A $10 13t front sprocket and it'll rock a 400ex in any terrain six ways from sunday.[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-happy.gif[/img]

 

i shouldnt say this b/c the subject has been stirred up so many times and it brings a severe difference of opinion. i think if you really liked electric start and reverse on the Z400, you are not going to like the 450R. some will say it starts great, no probs EVER and that the kick start on this bike is the best thing since sliced bread.... but in my experience with it, i can only give it an 'ok' rating here. the auto-decompression helps out, but never hit the gas and try not to stall it. even with the great hot start button, you will be about 10 kicks before it starts again. unlike the old R, 3 kicks max you're up and running.

i havent tried the sprocket thing but in stock form, it is geared a little high. to me, there's not much difference btwn 4th and 5th either. first needs to be lower and 5th needs to be taller or it needs a sixth gear. dealer is BSing about the lowend torque though- it has plenty of strong, smooth power and can rip when you get on it; too bad the gearing isnt matched more carefully to the engine, IMO.
the ratios from the original R (all 6) would be awesome with this engine.

5200 is a good price.

 

So you have ruled out the YFZ?

 

Buy the 450 and put the 13 tooth sprocket on it. Then, put a decent exhaust on, do away with the air box cover and jet it WAY up and you will love it. Especially at that price......

 

Ruled out the yfz only for price difference, $5200 vs $6400

 

Theyfz is a better choice only for motocross.

The seat is too stiff.

The throttle is too stiff.

And it hasn't nearly as much low end.

Plus if you're a bigger rider, it may not fit you as well....

 

Actually, I think it is also a better choice for the dunes.
Revs really high and fast
Puts out more H.P. (which is what you need for sand)
Doesn't wheely as bad (good for hill climbing/tree shots)
Electric start
Lighter than the TRX
Feels lower to the ground (seat height), so feels more stable cornering


Those are actually just a few of the reasons I chose the YFZ.[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]