I've been looking into getting either a new 450R or a new 400EX, but I can't deceide between the two. I've been riding quads my whole life and a dirtbike for a few years. The whole kickstart idea doesn't worry me about the R but i've always liked having the electric start. I've heard the 450R is quick, but the 400EX has potential. I've also heard the R's kick is easy to start but not-so-easy if you stall it. Any advice to which one??

 

I stalled my R at least 20 times (no exaggeration) on my first day and I never had a problem kicking it over again, and I've never kick-started anything before. If the motor is still warm, just hold the hot-start button when you kick. They aren't lying when they say it starts on the first or second kick, hot or cold, every time.

Get the R if you can afford it.

 

The EX will give you years of relatively carefree riding. The R on the other hand, will require frequent oil changes and a top end once in a while.

The EX may just be the ultimate trail bike. It is a little down on power, but you can hop it up some. Handling is superb.

The R is geared tall and likes to rev, so it does its best work out on more open trails, and in wide open country. It isn't the choice for anything at all technical. Handling is also superb.

 

the 400ex is bulletproof and has reverse with the 05. if you get a 450R put a 13 tooth front sprocket on it and get the HRC kit or whatever cam you want and get a good pipe. the 450R is a whole lot faster, the 400ex doesnt even compare unless you spend a crap load of money on the motor. the 450R does require frequent oil changes but it only holds less than 1 quart of oil. the 450R is 25 LBS lighter. id say get the 450R unless you ride lots of trails, then id get the 400ex. thats all just my opinion though

 

Both are considerably good machines, but, if you can’t afford the R, the 400ex will do you well. Trust me on that one…

 

Hi Kristy!
I assume you are a girl??
Anyway, if you are an aggressive rider, or like to ride in the sand, I would recommend the 450R. It will have enough power for you to grow into, whereas the 400EX might limit your ability as you get better/more aggressive[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif[/img]
I own and ride a YFZ, so I'm talking from experience when I recommend the 450 for an aggressive, or dune rider. If you are not aggressive, then I'm sure the 400EX will fit you just fine.[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif[/img] Also like the boys have said, the 05 will have reverse, which is a bonus for trail riding!

These guys have given you some good info! Hope you are able to make a better decision with all the info provided here.[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

The biggest considerations I would into is the oil changes and the top end rebuild...If throwing a new top end into the 450R and changing oil isn't a big deal then that is what you should get. It has tons of power and if your a trail rider then gear down to a 13 tooth and you'll be fine. The 400 ex will always be a great quad..you can ride it to hell and back and it will still be as reliable as it has always been...The 400, you could get a good deal on it(if money is an issue). You could also look at the other 400 class (Z,dvx,kfx) unless your a die hard honda fan. But you really can't go wrong with either.... I don't know your riding skill or how long you've riden but if you get a chance..go and test ride them both and see what feels best for you.

 

I really appreciate everyone's imput. Sorry if I haven't given up enough info...I'll be riding moslty open trails, with more than enough room to give these bikes enough action and to open them up to their Max speed. I weigh about 115 and I have tons of expierience on quads.(my 1st ever quad was a 50 suzuki when I was TWO,and im talking gas powered, actual quad, not them battery powered ones, that I actually rode everywhere on!)I want it to be able to jump without any problems and race w/my friend(rides a YFZ450) on his track.I'm probably going to keep it mostly if not, all stock.And money is definetly NOT a problem. ~Thanks

 

New ID

 

Sounds like your gonna be riding a new 450r to me [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-wink.gif[/img]