I've been saving all summer for a quad, and I pretty much have it down to 2 - the 450r or Z400. I'm 16 years old 5'10 190lbs. I have had exp on quads and bikes since I have been 9 so I know what I'm doing and I know my abilities. I have ridden both quads and I like them both. I will spend the majority of my time playing around on jumps and doing some trail riding. I am not planning on racing competitivly at all. I like the Z400 for its comfort and its very nice ride but that could hurt me when I start hitting bigger jumps. Then you can't beat the 450r's power, although there has been complaints abour high gearing (04/05 models what I can afford) but I guess a 12 dollar front sprocket would be an easy fix. I just don't want to be bored with the power of a Z400 after 3 months. Thanks for an input!

 

I have an '04 450R, now a 480R, and I love it! I ride trails and dunes. Some on here will say the 04 & 05 450r's aren't good trail quads because they don't have reverse or E start. I have never had a problem on the trails without either of those. I went to a 12 tooth front sprocket and it makes a world of difference.
I have never ridden a Z400 so I can't compare the two.
I don't think you'd be disappointed with either one, really.
I prefer the Honda, because I'm Honda biased.

 

Raptor 700!

 

I don't think that was his question. Besides, he says he can only afford a 04 or 05 450R. He wouldn't be able to afford a Raptor 700

 

I have both. The Z is a better all-around machine for cross country riding, but sounds like what you are looking for is more of a "play" quad. If your trail riding isn't highly technical and requires very slow riding, the R should be fine.

 

I too have both and I agree with Recon. You can't go wrong with either one IMO.