Help Me Get Back In The Game!

[Olympus]

Hey fellas, new member here and wanted to get some expert advice. I'm not new to quads, just been or of the game for a while. I was big into them growing up. My last bike was a 1999 Banshee that I sold when I went to college. Now I'm almost 30 (can't believe I just said that) and I've really been thinking about getting another bike again. I am just clueless on the bikes after 2000ish.

Currently, I have a 1984 Honda Big Red 3-wheeler in like new condition that my grandpa bought brand new. While it's really neat to putz around on and show off, there is really not much enjoying about riding it.

What I'm looking for is a sporty quad. Nothing for racing or anything like that. I would LOVE to get another Banshee. I love the 2 stroke sound and the sheer quickness. But now that I'm older, I'd really like something with reverse and I don't want to smell like exhaust after riding. So I'm thinking 4 stroke would be better suited for me.

I want something with some power and speed though. I'm not exactly a small guy either. I'm 6'1" and 230lbs. I need something that can handle my size and still have some pep.

Riding style would almost exclusively be gravel roads and occasional trail. No racing or duning or anything like that.

I'm thinking I'll be keeping an eye out for something used and probably completely stock. I don't want something tricked out because I'm not much of a gearhead. Reliable and smooth running is key. I'm thinking a max budget of $2500-$2800. In my initial search, I have found some nice offerings like Honda 450R and 400EX, Suzuki LTZ400, and some Raptor 660s and KFX700s. I know very little about these bikes or if they will even fit my search criteria. Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I'm literally all ears and want to soak up all the knowledge I can.

[wylde1]

Any of the quads you mentioned would be good. The best advice I could give would be do visit any of the dealers that are near you. There you can actually sit on the quads to see if the placement of controls and seating position are comfortable and ask any questions you want. Also if you can check on any that may fit what you are looking for, check them in person. With your size you definitely want to check the ergonomics. Riding a quad wont be any fun if your back and knees are killing you after a ride because you are in a bad position while riding. good luck and hope to see some pics soon.

[Olympus]

Thanks for the advice. I'll be sure and do that.