The KTM 450 XC roosted its...
The KTM 450 XC roosted its way into the winning spot with its high-end racing components, killer power and outstanding handling, but this package comes with a steep price.
The Results
The newest entry in the fight for track dominance is the Austrian-built KTM 450 XC. Superior power, solid suspension and an overall performance package placed this machine at the top of the mountain for a majority of our testers. After some time spent dialing in the hlins suspension, the KTM can be ready for the racing circuit with little to no help from the aftermarket. Many companies claim to have produced machines that are race-ready from the showroom floor, but KTM has backed up its bold statement, earning the 450 XC the crown and top honors in our ATV Rider 450 Shootout.
Coming in a close second is the Suzuki QuadRacer R450. Overall, the R450 was impressive in every terrain that it was subjected to. As a machine aimed at the MX crowd, it, as we had expected, achieved high rankings on the track but much to our surprise it actually scored extremely well in the woods. While it was restricted on the trails by its width it managed to make up for this handicap with precise steering and phenomenal predictability. It wouldn't take much to narrow this quad a couple of inches and have a screaming woods racer.
Wrapping up the top three position is Yamaha's YFZ450. With four years of evolution under its belt the YFZ450 is a ferocious force to be reckoned with. Its aggressive performance, appealing style and reasonable price fit the hard-core enthusiast to a tee. With a new throttle assembly and a slight bit more free sag lowering the rear, the Yamaha would likely find itself moving up a position in next year's shootout. With a top rider like eight-time GNCC champ Bill Ballance racking up multiple back-to-back titles, it's obvious the YFZ450 has the ability to be transformed into a world-class racer.
The phenomenal power and superb...
The phenomenal power and superb handling characteristics of the 2008 LT-R450 boosted it to a surprising second place this year. The only downside is that it's not the most versatile machine.
Muscling its way into the fourth spot of the shootout is the Rotax-powered Can-Am DS 450. With numerous features that are unlike any ever seen in the ATV industry, the DS 450 shocked our testers thanks to its remarkable braking ability and extremely light weight. Its two-stroke-type power curve was the only drawback to the technologically advanced machine. If the entire power range were as impressive as the top-end, there would be nothing in its class that could match the machine's speed. Being fuel-injected, the power curve can easily be adjusted with aftermarket controllers. It will be interesting to see the capabilities of the DS 450 after map alterations.
Kawasaki takes the fifth spot with its KFX450. While the smooth power delivery of the KFX provides an enjoyable ride that's not cut short by sheer physical exhaustion, it lacks the oomph that's necessary to wear the crown. I witnessed the green machine performing some amazing high-flying acrobatics while being piloted by the Media All-Stars at the Echeconnee MX Park. Floating high and soaring far, the testers agreed that the Kawasaki was at home in this demanding environment.
Yamaha's reliable and powerful...
Yamaha's reliable and powerful YFZ450 has always been a favorite for us, but it has fallen a little behind in 2008 due to its lack of innovation. New innovation or not, it's still one of the most aggressive and versatile machines out there.
Just narrowly edging the Outlaw into sixth place is the Honda TRX450R. Overall ergonomics and power are the outstanding traits of the TRX, making it a top choice for ATV builders. Even though the extremely stiff stock suspension restricts its performance, the TRX makes for a great trail machine. With the addition of aftermarket suspension or even a professional overhaul of the factory shocks, the Honda has the potential to rival any other quad on or off the track. With the MSRP being considerably lower than that of many other machines, putting some extra dough toward a shock rebuild establishes a rock-solid machine in the same general price range.
Polaris has done great things with the Outlaw 450 MXR. The Fox suspension and KTM engine make an awesome combination, working well together at putting power to the ground. Built as an MX machine the Outlaw rips right out of the gate and can hold its own on the trails as well. Ground clearance is an issue in deep woodland ruts due to the small MX tires, and the seat could use some refining. After a trip to the tire store and possibly a sprocket to account for taller tires, the Outlaw 450 MXR could become an astounding woods warrior.