Folks I gotta set the record straight on a couple of items. The Raptor is in an all new, light-weight chassis (aluminum subframe and al. upper A-arms and knuckles)with excellent balance and low CG. The 660R engine shares some basic engineering with the XVZ660 motorcycle but has been re-engineered for higher RPM, ATV application. A YZ type transmission and shifting mech., dry sump, YZ type rear suspension (9inches front and back)20 clicks adjustability comp. and rebnd. The dry weight is 398lbs. on the pre-production units (almost 100lbs. lighter than a DS). The main handling target for the bike was an EX which is (was) the best handling in class but with the additional engine power, it is positioned to be in a class of its own. The thing comes stock with radial tires and reverse gear. Rev limiter is 9000rpm and it has a bottom end that will drain your eyeballs. The bike has been in the works for two years and has undergone extensive testing. No one builds 'junk' any more and you got some great choices ahead with all the new models coming out in the sport category. Reality check... at this moment in time there is not a better handling, faster, or bigger bang-for-the-buck ATV available, period. That might change tomorrow but until then better shut-up and ride... R

 

it's not available yet......

 

Clearly, the Raptor was designed to out-perform and out-handle the competition. The outperforming will probably be easy, but if the handling is "just" as good as the 400ex, altogether it will be an awesome package.

'00 400ex (gone soon?)
'00 Banshee (gone soon?)
'01 Raptor (home soon)