Hey.First off I dont have a bike yet but a friend of mine has gotten me hungry for one.He has a raptor modded with an exhaust and jet kit.I had never ridden one until last week and I have to say these things are awesome.I can handle his bike very well for a first timer and so far I havent had any problems handling his bike.My question is if I would be better suited in a smaller bike like the yfz 450.While I have heard this bike to be geared more for racing,I have read up on it and would like to hear from someone that has it and compare it to the raptor.Now keep in mind I am not going to be racing it but it will be a trail/power lines/sand pit ride.I was just thinking that since it was alittle lower it may be easier to handle(just a thought).My friend has said the tranny in the 450 to be very tight and the gear ratios to be very close resulting in lots of shfiting.I am looking more towards the raptor but would like to hear some opinions from others that have ridden both.Thanks goalie

 

sounds like you need a Z400

 

I would get a kfx/z before i would a Raptor. I had a raptor before my 450 with a pipe, air filter etc. and i would get beat in a drag by the stock 450. I also race some mx so thats another reason why i got my 450. IMO my 450 handles way better than my raptor did. Just up to you. Good luck on your decision.