I dont want to start an argument over the Z400 and the Raptor, I was just wanting some imput from both sides, so I could make my own judgement. Please feel free to list some reasons why you feel its better. No bashing just opinions.

 

My vote is for the 05 Predator.

 

Well I own and love the Z400, but suggest the Pred also. I don't think I'd trade my quad for any other. Yeah, the 450's are quick, but if I can keep up with them and be waaay more comfortable on my Z, why switch? The Raptor has tons of power, but stock for stock, I don't think it's as useable as the Z or Pred. They're both my fav from the factory.

 

Well in my opinion the things I don't like the most is the suspension and handling. I think it feels tipsy because it is too narrow. Also, my friend seems like he is always needing to fix something and he isn't even a hard rider. I couldn't imaging if I owned it and rode it the way I do my z. Overall I just dont like them and would not own one. I know I wil get flamed for this or someone that has one will just not agree but he asked for my opinion so I'm giving it. I will admit that I like the way they look and the power is decent but that isn't everything that makes a great bike.

 

Thanks for the input! Dont worry about being bashed about your opinion. Everybody has one and there is really no way to please them all. I've been contiplating these two machines and have been looking for all the input I can get. Thanks again.

 

Well, JMO...
I really like the Z400 but it does not have enough power for some of the steep long sand climbs I need to make. And I do not want to spend the money to bore out a new quad, nor incur the reduced reliability from that mod. So I have ruled out the Z400. And btw a big guy will find the Z400 too small, JMO.

I own the Raptor and the Predator. I definitely prefer the Predator and will definitely sell my Raptor when I buy my next quad. I did space out my Raptor so it is not tippy, and I juiced it up so it has much power. But, the Predator is just as fast and MUCH more comfortable to ride. Much better handling. Their PRO steering really works great. I have the 03 black and red TLD and it looks Great, and is very comfortable for me. I do not care for the Predator gray color.

I have spent hours on the YFZ and also on the 450R. They both still have problems. The 450R has no electric start (nor reverse), and I will not buy another quad without electric start. The YFZ still has a few problems: vibrating engine, harsh suspension, no reverse, brick seat, and runs hot. But the YFZ is the quickest. JMO.

The Honda 400ex lacks power. The DS650 is too BIG for me, I don't fit. 2-strokes are fast but they are History. Kawi 700 is not quick enough, too heavy. ATK (Cannondale) is still too risky, and it's engine vibrates too much. JMO.

If I could have one and only one new quad Today...it would have to be the 05 Predator. Of course, that could change this fall when the new models come out. JMO.

You asked for opinions....mine are based on 20 years of riding all models of 4 wheelers. I ride sand and trails.

Since you are coming off an Odessey, my guess is any of these machines will impress you. Get a ride, buy one, and have fun!

 

ever thought about a scrammy, i mean if u want u, u can clutch it for top end and it does have 4 wheel drive but its just as fun as a sport quad, ik ur polly not considering, if not a scrammy, then go for a pred or a Z

 

the banshee's are the most modify able atvs , they have the most availble parts for them

 

I agree with Trailblazerguy250 that the Banshee has the most modifications available....part of that is because it has not been improved from the factory since 1989, and part of that is because it really needs the mods to perform. But once modded, it really performs. Nothing like a modified Banshee screaming thru the big dunes!
But there are sooo many modifications available now for all of the 4-strokes that this is not a big issue. You can get any mod you need, just search the web a bit.
Wahoo09 is from Maryland, so I imagine he rides very few dunes, and a lot of trails. Banshee is not good on trails, modded nor stock. Nor will a Kawi700 nor DS650 fit the trails.
He wants a high end quad...but he is also talking about putting a winch on it! So reverse would be a nice plus.
He wants to do a lot of mods, so stock power comparisons don't really apply much.
I could not possibly recommend the Banshee for his riding and what he wants to do.

If you don't mind kick starting, go with the Honda 450R with the Cam Kit (or wait until this fall to see if they have a kick starter on the 2006). Or buy the best trail quad today, the 05 Predator and juice it up. It will fly. ...JMO.

Have Fun!