Hey guys, im new to the board but not so much to the atv world. I used to own a utility quad and am now looking into getting a sport quad and need some suggestions as to what i should get. Im looking to spend no more than about $3000 and I have found several quads on craigslist ranging from raptors to 400ex's to a yfz450 to both the z400 and kfx400, and the polaris predator and bombardier ds650. My question is which quad would best suit me or would you prefer? Im 6'2" and 195lbs and most of my riding will be recreational trail/dune riding and I do plan to try to get into the local racing scene too. Any opinions are highly appreciated!  

b_smith07,   I am a weekend warrior and own several different atv, my fav by far is a polaris 400 4x4 (its a tank!!) never let me down untill last weekend due to an electrical problem (i created) ive rolled it endo and sideways and have always been able to ride it home. i also own a ltz400 suzuki alot of fun in wide open spaces its not as forgiving when trees get in the way as the polaris and last but not least an 86 trx250 honda small utility bike but fun for putting around while healing from the polaris and suzuki. all in all its what yur after polaris is heavy automatic and in my opinion very dependable, suzuki fun and light and the honda...well its a good machine. hope this helps in your decision, jrcrx  

both the ltz400 and the yfz450 are incredible sport atv's with tons of power to spare.
as well the honda trx450 and 400ex are good solid machines.

with the many current and past defects i wouldn't suggest anyone buy a polaris.

i see polaris in my shop constantly for defects that polaris will admit to and alot they wont admit to.
and dealing with polaris for warranty is the biggest headache.

Think of it this way, Polaris has had 16 recalls since 1999 and most of them are re-occurring recalls that polaris for some reason can't seem to fix, yet polaris still charges you more every year for their junk atv's
They paid out over 3 million in settlements last year due to defects that caused serious injuries to the rider.

Yamaha has had 4 recalls (pretty darn good record!)

Honda has had 7 recalls (also a pretty darn good record)

you can read the recalls for all atv's here http://www.atvsafety.gov/atvrecalls.html  

i own a ltz 400 suzuki . it is a great bike and runs great.it is very fast for a stock bike.it is also great for the sanddunes.it also great for trails and could be a great racing bike.hope this helps.