I just picked up my 450r 2006 I rode all day on it and loved it, Here is my review
You have to keep it reved up in first gear the engine lnocks alot in all the gears but once you pin the throttle it takes off, ATV action says the same thing so I agree with them on that. I am use to Hondas being very smooth it is much different them my 400
2. ATV action said it tips alot I disagree the tail can spin at will it hooked corners great and was smooth, I was in tight trails and never had a two wheel problem if I wanted to kick the tail out it was easy with no fear of tipping
On sand it was great it
3. Atv action said the suspension was stiff and they weren't crazy about it in whoopde doo's (spelled wrong) but I felt it rocketed threw threm fast or slow with no problem and easy to control it did not feel to stiff at all, I came from a 400 which was soft.
4. the throttle response was great hit it and it goes accelarates great
5. ATV action also said that it was tall I disagree it feels like a honda it just fits you honda riders know what i mean, my buddy has the kfx 400 and I felt that my hand were cramped on the bars and to me that bike felt tippy
6. You do have to let it warm up at least 5 minutes
7. ATV action also complainded about the nose Honda added weight and they still didn't like it, I disagree
8. Overall ATV avtion was not happy with the new 450r they were dissappointed
9. The only complaint I have is when the throttle is not punched the engine knocks it sounds like somthing is wrong Hondas always sound smooth this doesn't but once you rev it the knock is gone and sounds great
The front steering is very responsive it is effortless to steer.
Well these are just my thoughts
I looked at the yzf450 but I just like the way the Honda puts you in the seat
feed back would be great

 

Congrats on the new 450R! Good review. I wouldn't worry about the motor being loud, my 700R is loud as well. Just put on a louder pipe and the knocking goes away............[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]