WINNER: Can-Am DS450
While the Pure Sport market is being flooded with top notch racing ATVs, when it comes to innovation and radical design, the Can-Am DS450 stands head and shoulders above its competitors.
Its revolutionary ALTEC aluminum frame (no welds), beautifully cast substructure and rifle drilled hollow axle bring a whole new meaning to strong. Likewise, its execution of reduced unsprung weight gives riders a tangible advantage over the competition.
Powered by a fresh Rotax 449cc mill, in stock form this track rocket is what its competitors pine to be when modified.
The available X package brings the term “race ready” to a whole new level putting high quality race refinements in buyers’ hands, straight out of the crate. In a class where technology and innovation are paramount, the DS stands alone.
RUNNERS-UP: KTM 450XC, Suzuki QuadRacer R450
KTM has made serious headway with its all-new KTM 450. Utilizing all the power and performance KTM motors are known for, this race bred European is no exception.
Ohlins shocks not only look great but damp with precision. KTM is totally focused on weight reduction and building strength into its design – two elements key to winning races.
In the hands of a racer or hardcore enthusiast the Suzuki QuadRacer 450 is a formidable weapon of war.
With multiple updates for 2008, this ATV is a “corked” up factory racer with potential waiting to be unleashed.
The fact that a $30 “Cherry Bomb” from Yoshimura will net an extra eight horsepower gives potential buyers some serious food for thought.
