mildly modded blaster...35+ hp, 300 lbs.
stock predator..............40-42 hp, 415 lbs
power to weight ratio = blaster all day long.
mx track/tight trails = blaster all day long
top speed/open areas only = predator
My previous quad was a 660 Raptor, and I have to really agree with Awk08 on his view.
The Blaster even in stock form is the king of tight woods trails. Light weight and nimble handling let it go anywhere.
The weight and length of the bigger machines make them suck in the woods, but better at speed.
A stock Blaster is fun, but no comparison to a Raptor or Predator.
Spend less than $100 on a head mod to get over 30hp and the game changes quickly!
As for handling, tires and suspension setup can make a big difference in handling.
Buy the wrong tires or have the toe in wrong and you have a squirrely machine.
As for lengthening and widening, it does make the Blaster more stable at the expense of nimbleness.
For trail use, I like the stock width. 2" extra width makes a world of difference when squeezing between rocks or trees.
I stand on it and plant my weight with my feet. On cornering all my weight is on the inside peg.
With over 40hp on tap I felt I needed to extend my swingarm. Even with a 2" extension the bike is still prone to flipping over on hillclimbs.
The longer the swingarm the harder it is to loft the front over logs on slippery surfaces or with worn tires.
With a good working Blaster you have no need to fear keeping up to a Predator or Raptor on tight trails.
Even the in the open a good working Blaster will run close enough with these bigger machines.
Some guys have to have a big machine to make up for deficiencies in their own personal life. Me? I am OK with my deficiencies.
Steve
