I've had my DS since it was new. Love the suspension, torque, stability, reliability etc... hate the weight. We mostly ride the dunes, and it's nice being able to let the big Rotax pull me up, over, and around almost everything without ever leaving third gear. Never had an issue with my bike until we got the wife a TRX450R. The more time I spend on her bike, the more I feel the weight of mine. However, her Honda is alot more "tippy". I'm thinking that an LTR would be the best of both worlds. The light weight, with the extra width. I've never ridden an LTR, and don't want to make a mistake. If I swap out my DS for a LTR, will I regret it? I know the Zuki gets high raves for MX, but how do they fare in the sand? I'd be buying a used one. What were the upgrade years on the Zuki? I'd want the softer suspension for the sand, and didn't the first years have stiffer shocks? Any help will be appreciated.

 

the suspension on the LTR is highly tuneable, so no worries, you can always get it set up where you want it.

the key to the LTR is that you NEED to re-gear with different sprockets for your such application. the gearing is tall as is with the 18s, and 20s only make it worse. it has a big, wide, flat powerband but gearing is still needed.

and you liked the ds suspension? wow. wait until you get on an LTR. the honda 450r doesnt even compare.

i honestly think you will be VERY happy with an LTR.

hope this helps

 

I think the LT-R would be a great ride in the dunes..... But also maybe check out the new YFZ450-R as that is also 50" wide now.......

If it were me I might choose the Suzuki......but not without looking really hard at the Yamaha..... I've had good luck with both brands......

Or wait to see what the 2010 450R looks like..... might be 50" and EFI......

 

I was wanting to sell my DS, and use the money to buy something else w/o having to come up with alot of extra money. That's why I'm leaning towards the Suzuki. All of the other 50" quads are too new to make that an option.