which one is better

[JACK STRAW]

'05 stock or '08 stock
which is better besides looks

[Honda.rider5871]

There identical other than the looks . A lot of people don't , but I personally like the new look of the 08 better

[CJM]

Same exact quad except for the plastics.

If you want the truth however:
I feel the 99-04 are the most reliable ones. Since they added reverse people have had alot of trans issues it seems. Also the 05+ doesnt shift as positive (you know your locked in gear) as the older ones do.

[Honda.rider5871]

The 99-04s are the fastest , but reverse is nice. The 05s has tranny problems but after that I think they fixed them

[Stickman400]

The only tranny problem the '05-'07s had was the recall they had for the reverse. I haven't rode an '04 for awhile but mine does seem a bit notchy when shifting at times, but I think that's just from me being very hard on it back when I first bought it brand new.

[storms400ex]

i own a 05 since new the only trans problem was a recall on the reverse, i did put the 99-04 front plastic on mine cause i dont like the new looks

[Resq]

Hosed on long distance rides with the 08+, no oversize tank options.

Less you have someone carry fuel for ya, plan your rides close to the supply.

[HondaRacing83]

ive rode an 08 and 12. so damn uncomfortable. small seat once you ride that then get on my 05 its like sitting on a pillow

[russellsroost31]

its pretty much comfort
to me i like the 05 looks and 08 feel
with the narrower seat i feel like i can throw the quad around more and ride more aggressive