Hey guys!

I've ridden quads before, and I'm finally looking to buy one of my own! I'm torn between the YFZ 450 and the Raptor 660, will probably be an `01 - `05 model, I'm a college student who wants something nice, but can't afford brand new. I live right next to Juniper Dunes, and I want something that can handle the sand and whoops no problem, and possibly race. I'm a girl, but I have always competed with the guys. I'm 5'9", 160 lbs. The only thing I'm iffy on is I've heard the 450 doesn't have reverse which I can see getting annoying pretty fast.

Anyways, I'm looking for some opinions from some people that have been there/done that, so any reccomendations or suggestions? I'm open to other makes and models, but these two are the ones who've captured my attention.  I'd like the pro's and con's of each, no sugar coating!

Thanks!

Megan  

They are both great machines. The best way to do this is classify them properly.

YFZ450: Super High Performance

Raptor: High Performance/But great for general recreation and dunes.

Seems to me you lean more towards the Raptor. I personally love the YFZ as I mostly race and ride as if I'm racing. Oh, and the reverse is a nice feature on the Raptor.  

I have a 03 raptor and i love it... mostly.  
Let me explain, it is a great machine, full of power and torque. I can keep up with the best of them in general riding, dunes, etc. As far as drag racing, probably not going to win many.  This quad is super HEAVY. It does have reverse however which will keep you from throwing your back out if you come to a wall.
It is still a great machine though, I love mine, just wish it was lighter!