my first ? is how much longer will you be able to get a 2000 model 450. Also how much more are the 2001 Fomran 450ES. The last ? is has any one had a problem with there ES shifters in the winter. Just wondering because it will spend many cold nights in the drifting snow next to my Ice shack. I don't want to have problem when i try to go home after it has been out in the wind and snow overnight. Thanks for your help. Ride safe

 

My dad has a 1999 es. It has a primer to shoot gas into the carb when its cold so it started right up every time last winter. It is still a little "cold blooded" and has to warm up for a while. When its very cold, there is a little hesitation in the shifting. But its not a problem once warmed up. The only problem the machine has had was the recall on the battery drain issue which has been fixed now. In fact, when he took it to the dealer to fix the problem, Honda also replaced his battery and if I'm not mistaken, also changed his fluids free of charge. In my opinion, its a very solid machine that should give years of trouble free operation.

 

Ditto for the 98 model 450ES.

For the best deal in the area call Larson's Cycle in Cambridge, MN 612-689-2760 Ask for Mike Larson

 

Was at Tousley Sports in White Bear MN on Saturday. They had 2000 for $200 under the price of a 2001. As for the winter, like all hondas I've owned, let it warm up and you will have no problems.

Schtick

 

Don't forget fellas.... the 450 also has a heater coil on the carburetor as well as the primer, to ensure no freeze up in cold weather. It was designed to run in cold weather. I know about cold weather.....how is -40F to -50F sound.
Helpful hint....before your bike cools off knock the snow and slush off, especially around the front a-arms and drive shafts, before it freezes. This will prevent ice and frozen snow from tearing up your CV boots.

 

Another good thing to remember is to remove any snow or ice from the rear brake. I had a heck of time getting my 450es into reverse, because I could not pull the rear brake as it was covered in ice. A little heat from a torch and I was good to go...

Schtick

 

Don't live where the winters are terrible, like most of the responses so far, but the primer button is easy to access on the 450ES. No so on the Rubicon, hidden behine a plastic cover you must remove, attached with rubber grommets, probably not an easy task in sub-zero temperatures. Get the ES!