The newer Warriors have a variety of improvements on the original model so how anyone comes to the conclusion that the '02s are best' defeats me. As Ratphlem says, the 02/03 needed an engine teardown for recall work so that is not in the 02s favour (unless as he says, you intend to upgrade the engine internals while the recall work is being done). Similarly the 02/03 seat was pretty crap too with the passenger pegs being far too high. The 02 also required recall work to the fuel tank (not required from 03 on) and CPS & TPS recalls (four Recalls in total, three for the 03 models and two for the later years ).
Here's a list of the different Warrior years and enhancements/improvements made: http://www.rswarrior.com/forums/forum.asp?FORUM_ID=27
If you look at each year in turn from 2002 up, you'll see that the majority of changes over the years have been for either comfort or cosmetic purposes with some minor changes to the front brakes and rear suspension. The engine & chassis remains the same throughout.
My advice Chase, for what it's worth, would be to set your budget first, look around for a used model with low mileage not worrying about the year. Look for a Warrior that alrerady has a few mods and all recall work completed. If you can, save a little money from your overall budget for any immediate mods such as pipes, seat & anything else that takes your fancy.
Best of luck mate.
