Hi all,

I am currently riding a stock 2005 Honda 400ex since new which I like alot but am honestly bored with it. It runs phenominal but doesn't have the power I would like. I am mostly a trail rider who loves hill climbs as well. I am close to the purchase of a Raptor 700, will I notice a big power difference and be happy with the switch? Also, will the raptor be a dependable and low maintenance?

Thanks!!!

 

You will definitely notice a power difference. 300cc and 15 horspower is quite a increase. I have a 700xx (Hondas 700cc sport quad) and it's really no comparison to a 400ex in terms of straight line speed. However, it won't handle quite as well or be quite as easy to toss around. Center of gravity is a bit higher on the raptor but I'm sure you'll get used to it pretty quick.
As far as reliability goes, the 400ex will always be the king of the sport class. Engine design has been around for a few decades and gives up some performance for longevity. The big bores are still extremely reliable. Much more so than the high strung 450s. It's still a mild compression motor. The 700s are essentially bigger versions of the 400s. Just change the oil and filter, clean the air filter and you are good to go. My 700 has the exact same maintenance schedule as all my honda utility atvs. The raptor uses the same powerplant as the grizzly so I'm sure it's the same as well.

 

Beside the obvious HP gain you will also not much more ft/lb of bottom end torque. You will be able to take off from a stop in 3rd without stalling and even on slow hilly steep trails at low rpms you will not need to down shift nearly as much to stay in the power band..
Torgue only comes from displacement.
A 450 sport atv has the same hp as a 700 but never will have the same bottom low rpm grunt of a big bore.