and honestly.... does the Z really handle as good as the EX?

 

It handles better.....

 

Yeah, it does handle better, although I prefer jumping the EX because it is a little better balanced in the air. The biggest difference between the bikes is the powerbands of the engines. The Z is a high rev screamer, and the EX is more of a low end grunter.

 

please describe to me, exactly how the Z "handles better" than the EX

 

hello I would like to know as well [img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

Even though the bikes are the same weight, the Z has a LIGHTER FEEL. The Z has a little plusher suspension, but this is aided by the mushy stock tires and firmed up a little when I put on Holeshots.

 

The front wheels on the Z stay on the ground better becuause of more front weight bias and a little less snap off the bottom. Z wheelies better in the upper part of the powerband because that is where the power is.

This is why I feel it handles better, I feel that the EX wheelies too easy. You want the front end to stay down when turning so that you have more control.

Most people that switch to the Z don't miss the EX.

 

thank you guys for the info im going to test ride my friends z400.

 

I just got my Z400 broken in and I have to say that I like it better than my 400EX... and I loved the 400EX. Riding them back to back, I agree with what the others say.... the Z400 has a lighter feel (almost more like a motorcycle) and the engine revs more. I was able to wheelie up sand dunes in 2nd and 3rd where on the 400EX the engine would hit the rev limit and power would drop off. You will like the way the Z400 handles, not too much different than a 400EX. My only initial impression is that the front shocks are a bit soft, but I had my 400EX set up on the most firm setting and the Z400 is still set up in the middle position... so that may be the difference. The stock Z400 feels faster than my 400EX with a white bros slip-on, K&N etc. Can't wait to get my CT Racing pipe for the Z400.

Overall, I thought I'd miss my 400EX because it is the BEST trail bike and has great low end. Not knocking the 400EX, but I don't miss it.

 

I did plan on getting an EX but ended up getting a KFX and I have no regrets.