I am torn...

[blastinroost]

I have no idea what to do. I have a chance to get a new 2005 or 2006 Honda 450R/ER. Now I know the pros and cons of each. And I am not sure what to get only because of the price the 2005 is $5,000 and the 2006 is $6,100. That is an $1,100 difference. I could use that $1,100 for mods or just buy a 2006. I can't decide on what to do. I want the 2006 mostly because of the power difference, and so that I won't get walked anywhere. Because I hear that the difference in power is so great. But, my brother has a 2005 and I have ridden that and like it a lot. I think it has enough power, but supposedly the 2006 is that much faster. I will be racing it in the 2006 season, I don't know if the 2005 will be the right choice. Is there that big of a difference in the two models.
What would you do, and why?
Thanks for the help!

[quadwanter]

What kind of racing? If you are doing any kind of racing you will want to upgrade suspenion and a good alternative to all new shocks is rebuilds from GTT or another one of the companies. Suposedly the '05 has more power you can "unlock" than the '06's thats why the pros are using the '05s still (or at least some i saw a while back). If i were you i would get the '05, get rebuilds (around 750$ which can make you faster than engine mods would {most cases}), get an hrc kit (around 300), and then save for a bigger piston and port job. The '06's have around 3-4 more hp which is a good amount but its not like you cant beat one.


another option would be get the HC2 (hot cam stage 2)...which is around $120 and then buy a full exhaust like hmf for low-mid range...if theres anymoney left get a higher compression piston for around another $150...

theres a lot to look at when deciding i know but with either of the R's you wont be displeased.

[Over-land 450r]

electric starters are junk. so many problems wit the ers
get the 05 and modd that *****

[NikNacs67]

The ER's are fine if you know what you are doing. Just don't give it gas when you are trying to start it. I rode an '04 when they 1st came out and swore I wouldn't waste the money on one. When the '06's came out, I rode one and fell in love. I got it for $5896.

[4ABURN]

I got my er for trails and pitts mosty with alittle track time and I love it. I stop and start it all the time (waiting for little boy 4)...