SureShot, heres my 2 cents:
I find my 2001 WR426 to be the best bike I have ever owned, or ridden. I have previously owned a CR250, XR600, and DR350. I dont particularly believe some of the things that I hear most people discuss:
1) It starts rather easily. 2-3 kicks. Some say its a pain in the a$$. Not true.
2)Yes, the seat is hard on your butt, however I think $50 will vastly improve comfort. I have not replaced it yet. So far after about 4 rides or so, It doesnt bother me that much. I dont sit as much as some other riders, so maybe thats why. (Maybe I have some more "back"?) LOL!
3) It is NOT a difficult bike in the woods. I am able to handle it just fine. A few times I had to stop and turn it around, and it felt a little tall, but thats it.
4)At high speeds, it feels very comfortable. In the whoops, the head doesnt shake, nor does the rear end "wander".
Some of the things I REALLY love:
1)AWESOME POWER! I was riding a XR6 just before I got this bike. Yes, its a load, and also has alot of power, but I dont miss 1cc of it. The WR screams when it hits the meat of the powerband. I noticed the bike is not extremely happy lugging around, but man when you get to hit that throttle-BE READY!!! I am SOOO happy with the power, I could talk about it for days!
2) It does not feel like 270 pounds. I think its more like 250-260. I never ride with a full tank of gas unless I really need it. I usually go with 3/4 tank so that may weigh a bit less. However, the bike does not feel heavy AT ALL. Anyway you cut it, if your not used to the extra weight of a big bore four stroker, you could always go with a 250F. I have heard alot of great things about them.
3) I love the suspension! I am 5'11, and weigh 226lbs. I am able to ride faster thru whoop sections than I ever have in my life. I have been riding for 24 years! I ride almost half MX, and half trails, and have yet to find a reason to revalve, or do suspension mods.
Simply put, if your not a big guy, or want an easier bike to ride trails I would recommend a 250F. But, if you want the power and scream of a big bore, go for the 426. You cant miss.
ps- I used to be a Honda guy-NOT ANY MORE!
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2001 WR426F
"To climb steep hills requires a slow pace at first."
- Shakespeare