I'm looking to buy a quad in a few months, and doing some research. It's pretty much down to the DS650 and the Raptor. I'd love some honest feedback from you Raptor fans.
Thanks

 

Oh yeah- I've been out of the scene for long time. Last quad I owned was a '92 Suzuki 250 quadracer, which I loved (and hated at times). Now I've got the fever again......help me

 

It's lighter than the DS for sure. What kind of riding will you be doing? Each quad has it's pros and cons so buy what you feel comfortable with and can afford. By the way, invest in a good helmet!!! XR[img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

I'll be hitting fields, trails, and jumps when I can. I like to ride hard. btw, I'm 5'7" 145 lbs.

 

Have you looked @ the Cannondales yet? I too was going to buy a Raptor till I drove one of these. The rest is history.

 

I own a 01 Raptor (no tranny probs). I've ridden a DS a couple times as well. Here are some observations:

I REALLY enjoy riding my Raptor !

I think the Raptor is a good machine but it seems to me that it's overly complicated as is the DS.

I do not like the fact the Raptor has twin carbs with vacum operated slides. But, the 5-valve head is great !

The 01 Raptors have had numerous changes and issues so the 02/03 would be a better choice. I think the 03s are stable platforms.

Plan on spending $1500-2000 extra immediately to get a Raptor to breath and perform like it should out-of-the-box. Cant comment on the DS - probably the same scenario. Once properly aspirated - hang on !!

Raptors are OVERPRICED, never shopped for a DS.

Raptors have the "tranny problem" hanging over them !?

I've got my Raptor exactly where I want a sport bike - lots of power, decent ride quality, and a FUN ride ! I really like it but I have some critisims.

A properly set-up 250R would probably be equally fun (depending on the riding type).....simpler and cheaper..

DS is bigger and heavier ! Could be good or bad depending on who you are. I'm guessing a little big for your size.

I'd also seriously consider a Z-400, or Predator 500 based on your size but they are first model years and I'd wait for the bugs to appear. I'd avoid an 01 Raptor but a 02/03 would likely be a good choice.

OK guys break out the flame-throwers - just my 2 cents

Eric

 

Awsome machine, Some people say the handling is sub par but I disagree. I added a little more air in the tires and it handles great.

 

Dubya,
I live in Menasha...Where'd you get your Cannibal? Janssen (sp?) Racing? Thats really only dealer I know of around here. Are there others? Do you ride on the ice at all?

Do you do any racing in Chilton?

Thanks!

-Jared

 

Quadman,

I got from TA in Francis Creek. Jansen has them now and Joel the owner is one hell of a flat tracker. I am getting it ready for ice racing and hopefullly it should be ready this year.

 

just go to the dealers and sit on both. Youll be so happy with either I doubt it matters which one you get so just see which one feels better to you and which you can get at a better price.