Originally posted by mcaram11:
how do you like the 400ex....thats what i was thinking about getting. ever had it out against the raptor or banshee?? how does it hang?? i like the banshee, but i think i want to stay away from the 2-stroke. i like riding through water and mud and what not... the banshee doesnt quite like those conditions...
Honestly, I haven't had a good chance to evaluate the 400EX. I picked it up last year about this time. First riding trip I hit a tree early, bent the axle. Got it bent back enough to finish the weekend, but I was with my wife and didn't ride hard. Second trip, I poped a tire and put some bad tires on the back because the shop up north had limited selection on a Saturday afternoon. I got 22" heavy tires and stock, the 400EX didn't have the power to compensate. I effectively threw away 5th gear - top speed was in 4th. From what riding I did, it was adjusted too stiff to keep up with my friend on the 300EX. We are about equal riding abilities on trails. But, this year, I'll have better tires and I'll soften up the back suspension. Supposedly, the 400EX is still the best trail bike. In a straight line, Raptors and DS's will take it, but are harder to get the power down in the trails. 400EX's are getting pretty cheap (used) and dead reliable. I'd more into reliability since I don't get the time to ride much. If I modded them, Banshee's are tough to beat. I just prefer 4-stroke in the conditions I ride in.
Oh, check out
www.atvconnection.com forums for some more info.
Aaron
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