what should i ride for the desert

[wfo4rv]

okay i have currently two mx ltrs and a mx setup 250r. I am starting to really get into the desert stuff. Would would you guys run in the desert and why....here's what ive thunk up with a little pro and con list.

set up current 250r for desert

pro:cheapest option

con: 25 years old


700xx
pros: big bore power, irs suspension,
cons: most expensive

450r
pros: reliable
cons: every desert racer practically uses one and i like being different

xr650 hybrid
pro powerful, lighter than 700xx
con lots of fab work

set up current ltr
pros cheap, i know how to work on this engine well
con 3rd gear issues.


let me know yalls thoughts! thank a million

[CJM]

Who cares if your like everyone else, theres a reason they run the honda 450.

[440racer66]

i would just buy xc type tires and run my ltr i already had it seems like the easiest option. and you can always put the mx tires back on and have that setup. but a 450r is a good bike but i couldn't justify buying a quad just for it when i had 2 already. but if moneys not and object i would.

[WhiteZee]

Originally posted by 440racer66
i would just buy xc type tires and run my ltr i already had it seems like the easiest option. and you can always put the mx tires back on and have that setup. but a 450r is a good bike but i couldn't justify buying a quad just for it when i had 2 already. but if moneys not and object i would.

[JOHNDOE83]

If I were gonna ride the desert I would want a DS650 with some weight removal and reliability mods.

[muddy400EX]

be an innovator and run the ltr:cool:

[OutlawBill]

Do not forget DS450 ,YFZ 450, and KTN 525

[MX MaNiAc 06]

Setting up one of your Ltrs would be the easiest route. What about a raptor 700? You can find those pretty cheap.

[wfo4rv]

Ok sold 2 of my quads for money for a desert set up-
options: all are desert race ready

Cr500 quad- vibration would be an issue
700xx
250r
Raptor
Or a 450r

Cast your guy's vote.... I have an equal desire for all of these quads I'm lookin at so I'm torn...

[CJM]

Id say 450r is gonna be tbe best bet. Most reliable, easiest and cheapest to build and its a honda.

[wfo4rv]

Originally posted by CJM
Id say 450r is gonna be tbe best bet. Most reliable, easiest and cheapest to build and its a honda.

How to they handle compared to the ltr I'm used to?

[CJM]

Originally posted by wfo4rv
How to they handle compared to the ltr I'm used to?

Gotta remember, LTR is a MX race machine from the factory. the 450r isnt gonna handle like its on rails, but if you build it right and add some +2 arms, shocks, rear link setup you will be super happy. Nice thing about the honda is the torque they throw out from the start as well.

I feel the LTR overall will be way to low to ride over the rocky terrain of a desert. Where I ride (sandy/dune/desert/woods all at same time) the honda dominates b/c in the right hands and since it has the best clearance its a rocket.

[wfo4rv]

Originally posted by CJM
Gotta remember, LTR is a MX race machine from the factory. the 450r isnt gonna handle like its on rails, but if you build it right and add some +2 arms, shocks, rear link setup you will be super happy. Nice thing about the honda is the torque they throw out from the start as well.

I feel the LTR overall will be way to low to ride over the rocky terrain of a desert. Where I ride (sandy/dune/desert/woods all at same time) the honda dominates b/c in the right hands and since it has the best clearance its a rocket.

Thanks, I'm very new to the desert but am liking it more and more.

[bloodswet&gears]

CAMEL?????

[wfo4rv]

Or I could build an xr650 hybrid hmmm

[bloodswet&gears]

LOL!! I just couldnt resist it. Sorry. Just havin fun. I have never even seen a desert except on T.V.

[Baracudaaa]

Originally posted by CJM
Gotta remember, LTR is a MX race machine from the factory. the 450r isnt gonna handle like its on rails, but if you build it right and add some +2 arms, shocks, rear link setup you will be super happy. Nice thing about the honda is the torque they throw out from the start as well.

I feel the LTR overall will be way to low to ride over the rocky terrain of a desert.

That is insanity. Put the same size tires on either atv and the clearance is almost identical.
The reason people go with Honda is reliability, fairly good power, and availability of aftermarket parts. Plus, its also a cheap platform to begin your build.

If you already have an LTR, get a set of desert tires, some decent skids, and stop worrying.

[CJM]

Honestly even with larger tires the LTR is still slightly too low imho. But just my opinion.

[wfo4rv]

Update: I decided to run my ltr, I am abit concerned about the reliability but so far mine has been okay. Ah man I'm ready to get this thing ready