I am currently working on my 2000 400ex and I am currently in the process of getting the 465 motor kit ,the frame powder coated ,fullbore race plastic and lazer lights but am lacking in the suspension area and I need some help with it. 1. I would like to know how far to extend my swing arm? 2. How far should I extend my A-arms? 3.I like to dune and trail ride and would like to know what shocks would be best for my kind of riding?PLEASE HELP ME![img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-confused.gif[/img]

 

Don't worry abouut your swinger until you break the stocker. Longer makes it steer slow, and makes the front end heavier. Wait until you see how fast the front end comes up after you get htat new motor dialed in and the gearing set up.I run +3 a arms, it steers a little slower than +2, but it tracks so well. I am a big guy so I can muscle it around. Some people comment that its a little more difficult to steer than others(+2). I imagine that your trails are desert trails, not much tree dodging in Phoenix, so go wide.Don't get a arms that go forward 1", it works good for the 250R, but it makes a 400ex handle wrong. Seems like if money is no object buy Motowoz, Elka, or Axis shocks. But , I run trip rate works w/ rezzies, for me they are fine, and I would rather have the cash in my retirement plan than in a set of high dollar shocks. I don't make money riding mine, so thats my logic. There is definetly a big difference in shocks if you spend high dollars, but I just don't think the average joe needs them. Don't get a ZPS or "zero pre load", or "ssd" or a lowrider set of shocks, for the dunes it will cause alot of bottoming out over razors ect.
Buy the suspension first! Its way more important than motor work!

 

I have a +1 1/4 swingarm, and +1 + 1/2 a-arms. The difference in handling on the trails is amazing. It's like riding on a rail. My front end still comes right up on command through the gears.

I had Works Triple rate shocks, and loved them. For the recreational rider, and light MX, they are a very good setup for the money. The only reason I switched to Elkas was because I got a great deal on them. I also got my rear shock rebuilt with Elka components. Now, it's like riding on a cloud.

 

I have Works Steelers with reservoirs up front, and Ulatracross out back. Floats over those desert whoops! I run Holeshot XC tires on ITP rims (wider and with a greater offset than stock or Douglas), and it makes the bike +3" wider in the rear and +2 wider in front.

 

haveing all that power is going to be nice. haveing suspension will make all the differance.i have 2001 stock 400ex +2 jdperformance arms 2.5 inch wheelspacers in tthe rear works triple rate up front handels like a dream. looking into putting a 426 kit .