XC racing: 2005 vs 2007 450R

[Jason Smith]

I currently have a 2005 Honda TRX 450R that I XC race. I am considering buying a 2007 450R from a friend. It has the HRC kit and electric start (wish it was a kickstart). I plan on swaping everything I can from the 2005 to the 2007 then selling the 2005. I am wondering if there is any disadvantages to XC racing the 2007? My 2005 runs great and I really like racing it. Should I keep my 2005 and forget the 2007? SUGGESTIONS?????

i know my 2006 450er is a royal ***** to start once it is hot. i have been playing with the carb and it has gotten it better. it now starts on about the 3rd push of the button instead of me sitting for 5 minutes or so. lonestar_r and myself had the same problem with it starting, but i changed different things in the carb than he did and they both improved...but not like they should be...we are kind of at a loss as to what to do next...

[400exrider707]

The 04/05 transmissions are said to be much stronger than the 06 + models.

[DJJ450r]

Originally posted by 400exrider707
The 04/05 transmissions are said to be much stronger than the 06 + models. and the frames are stronger, I'd stick with the 05:blah:

[Dave400ex]

First I have heard about the frames. I really haven't read much about newer frame breakage. Biggest complaint I have heard is the transmissions. Just make sure you get a kicker and not an E-start and you'll be ok.

[Sjorge450R]

well whats wrong with the 05? If its running good keep it.

[watts16]

Originally posted by speedyquad
i know my 2006 450er is a royal ***** to start once it is hot. i have been playing with the carb and it has gotten it better. it now starts on about the 3rd push of the button instead of me sitting for 5 minutes or so. lonestar_r and myself had the same problem with it starting, but i changed different things in the carb than he did and they both improved...but not like they should be...we are kind of at a loss as to what to do next...
Mines not so bad when its hot with the Estart. But I have a dual battery setup in mine. It usually takes 3-4 kicks when hot. And it will not fire in gear when its hot with the kicker. Maybe I just got weak kick from using the Estart half the season:p . I have a 05 also but havn't rode it since April when the crank went out :(

You going to Waukon Jason? If so I'll see ya there:

[quadman21]

I have an 05 and it's a beast. I have had no problem with starting it after the engine is hot. Very easy to start. It's just an *** to get warmed up. But aren't most hondas? If the o5 is still working for you than I would just stay with her.

[exrider44]

I wouldnt bother getting rid of your 05 if its running good. Unless it was a huge difference then maybe it would be worth it. Ive heard the 04 and 05 motors can handle more and put out more power when modded. At least thats what people say on this forum.

[BlaineKaiser450]

I would stick with the 05 personaly

[nicker71]

I talked to people that the hairscrambles I race at and they told me the newer ones didnt handle as well as the older years. It may have just been what they were use too.

[Jason Smith]

THANK YOU FOR ALL OF THE GREAT ADVICE. I am happy with my 05 and will propably just keep it for now.

[Gray33]

ya stick with the 05 and you would be wasting money if you bought the 07..The 07 and 08 are pretty much the same just wait till they improve something that is worth the 7 grand

[bigbadbubba]

the only reason the 05 and 04 handle better are due to the spindles. my e start is pretty good onces it warmed up. i think the 06 and 07 bikes are better once u change out the spindles. plus the 06,07 motors have more hp. i do not think this guy is goin to be trying to get max hp out of the motor so i dont think the weak trans should be a problem for him. the only time they really have problems when u put tons and tons of motor work to it. big bore and what not.

i would not keep a hold of that 05. those crank bearings go all the time on them. 04 is good.

thats my .02 not trying to start anything.

[mike nash]

Originally posted by Sjorge300EX
well whats wrong with the 05? If its running good keep it.

No Doubt,save your money.