PredFan...i see that you're in AZ. where do you recommend that i purchase the z400 at? any shops that you know of? are used ones okay to purchase? one of my friends suggested that i buy new because i do not know how well the bike was taken care of. and since i'm purchasing a bike that is normally beaten up pretty bad...that be another reason to get a new one.

purchase 2003? or 2004 model?

 

The z400 bike is readily available at any metro dealer - with the new bikes out in 03 and 04, you should be able to work a good deal on one. I would look at either Town and Country or Metro motorsports, since they are the biggest dealers in the area, have the most inventory, etc.

As far as buying an 03 or 04, not much if anything has changed, so take your pick and work a deal. If I was in the market to buy another z400 I would probably buy one used. I figure you could save about $1500, and get one with some aftermarket goodies already on it saving you even more $ (like a pipe, filter, jet kit and tires) I've seen some real "cherry" ones here in AZ. A lot of people are looking to "upgrade" to the newer bikes: the YFZ, Predator among others. If you're buying used, be sure to check out the frame thoroughly around the shock mounts and welds. Z400's that were ridden hard were known to have cracks in the welds in 03. If you shop around you could probably find one with a transferrable extended warranty - even better! Good luck.

 

if you wouldn't mind a little extra price go with the 04' cuz i've heard many horror stories about the frame on the 03' z, and I heard they fixed it for 04'. But you only have to worry about it if you're gonna ride really hard.

 

I agree with everyone that a Z400 will fit the bill just fine...but if you want something a little faster I'd go with a Raptor, great for all the kind of riding you mentioned....

 

go with an 04 KFX400 its the same bike as the z400 just (i think) better plastic. The KFX has a great look especially after you slap a few decals on it.

 

to get the custom decals go to buykawasaki.com, you'll find em there