If you were gonna start XC racing...

[schnide]

If you were gonna start XC racing (on a tighter budget) would you rather start with a used 400ex or a 250r (or other)? I currently have a 06 CRF450R that I race MX with, so whatever I can get out of it will be my quad purchase budget (maybe $3500). I will be racing in a local XC series in the +30 C class with no restrictions on number of strokes or engine size. I have been doing some research and it seems the 250r's in my price range are usually better equiped, but the 400ex is newer with (seemingly) better parts availability and (seemingly) better reliability. What would you recommend for the beginning xc racer on a $3500 budget? Thanks!

depends what you like. I like more torque and powerband of a 4 stroke so I would say 400ex. but others that like the 2 stroke powerband and horsepower would say 250r.

[blacknblue#2]

I suggest a 450R, it will be closer to the power your used to. You can get the stock shocks rebuilt to work great for XC and you dont really have to purchase a-arms or axle for XC racing. if you want it a little bit wider you could always just buy a little different offset wheel. and you can buy a used one for around 3000 or 3500

[Robin Hood]

Shoot for an older, slightly used 450R. My buddy picked one up in mint condition for $3000 not too long ago.

Try craigslist or ebay possibly.

[schnide]

I know the 450r motor received many changes for the 06 model year. If an 04 or 05 and a 06 were similarly equiped and in similar condition, is the 06 better enough to pay more for? Does the 06, with its titanium valves, require maintenance similar to a CRF (valve checks every 15 hours according to the book, etc.)?

[coryatver]

the 05 is actually prefered over the 06+ actually even pros still race the 05's

[Waddell]

I like 04 & 05 450's b/c of kick starers. If you do get a 06 or newer I would make sure it had a kick starter for backup b/c Hondas electric starters suck when the engine gets hot and you stall your bike. I've seen several people kill the batterys on there bikes trying to get them started back. Hope this helps some.

[Off-Road Maniac]

Go with the 400ex but if you can afford it an 05 TRX450

[pro-rider46]

i have a mint 05 ill let go for 3500, im in pa. pm me for pics

I got a 2006 YFZ450 pro taper bars, IMS roll front bumper $3200 OBO in Florida.

[smr]

since you said you will be racing on a budjet I would sugest the 400ex. If you can git one stock and leave it that way the motors will last a long time.

I have raced the OXC races before and the 400ex will do fine in the C class.

[mittman]

my dad picked up a 05 yfz450 came with newer tires pro taper bars dg nerfs and PowerMadd handguards for 2900 on craigslist. it was in geat shape other than then cut front fenders.

[Sweendogie]

look around craigslist for repo auctions... there are a bunch of 06/07 450r's/ for right around 3000 in indiana that are bought at repo auctions and sold for cheap... and are in mint condition

[gbcap]

Originally posted by coryatver
the 05 is actually prefered over the 06+ actually even pros still race the 05's

you might want to check that info...most pros are not allowed to run a bike that is older then 2 years old. i know thats a fact in GNC and GNCC. not sure about anywhere else.

[coryatver]

that is interesting. not that I don't believe you but where can you find that rule becuase its not in the rulebook?

[86250rrider]

since he is running c-class and an 04-05 without a bad crank will work great.the 04-05 tend to steer better and the 06-07 have better rear setup. i have the best of both worlds on mine. the 250r or 400ex works but the 450r is better imo. look at my sig i know. i paid 2900 for mine this winter and have around 5000 in it now ...... but its done with all the goodies and it works very well. im kinda honda biased though.:macho

[ricksmx865]

i would go with an 04/05 450r, i picked mine up for 3200 and went straight to the locals with it. if you pick one up a little cheaper you can get your stock shocks rebuilt, then maybe some other parts down the line

i would say 400ex or 450r