Ive heard that the frontend geometry has changed on the 03s, has anyone ridden both & and is there a big difference? Also how do the Arvins compare to the Ohlin fronts? If I have a chance to get a '03 USA-Edition Cannibal w/the Arvin fronts, Ohlins rear, & Holeshots do u think I should get this over a '02 w/Ohlins front & rear?

Also how are the USA graphics holding up?

 

I would go for the 03 if you can get one with the ohlins rear and holeshots. I faced the same decision when I got mine. The 03's have a lot of updates over the 02's. On the shocks, it really depends on how you ride. The arvins were fine to me but I picked up a pair of the ohlins on the forum. The ohlins are better at high speeds over the rough stuff but the arvins are a little softer at low speeds. The steering on the 03's is a lot better in my opinion. A friend of mine has an 02 and when I first got mine I couldn't tell a difference but after getting used to mine I got on his 02 and it was a big difference(but it could just be where I am used to mine). Also if it is an 02 with the ohlins it is probably an early 02 and although I dont know firsthand I have heard that the early 02's had some problems. As for the graphics, I trail ride a lot and the briars and branches have not done anything to mine so far. The graphics are very high quality in my opinion. But if your dealer hasn't done it you will have to trim the graphics in a few places(5 minute job). There is an update on c-dales web site that shows you how.

 

really a tough call, I'd probably have to go with the '03. The 03 steering feels much lighter, better to me. there are only minor reasons to pass up an 02 at a Great price though.

 

I would go with the 03 also.

 

Don't forget about the hydraulic clutch on the 03 and not on the 02.

 

only the early 02's don't have the hyd. clutch. I think the ones that had the ohlin frt shocks around that time

 

My friend just got a steal last week. He got an 02 Cannibal with ohlins front and hyd. clutch for $4000...its nice too!

 

Go for the Blaze or Moto. LOL. I have an '02 pretty much stock with Ohlins all the way around and the Saegem 500. It's a nice machine. I personnaly have not driven the '03 Cannibal so these guys should be able to offer some pretty sound advice. Good luck and welcome to the club.