Well I think you really should go with the 400ex, even know u say it has was made based on older technology it is amazing how suzuki's new technology isn't any better, probably worse. The 400ex will respond better to mods and will be easier to get information about. I don't even understand why anyone would by a z400.

 

Wow, this is a huge example of the fact that you have to try the machines yourself, and make your own determination. I have NOT ridden alot of sport quads, but have done a ton of research on them in the past 4 months. Originally I was looking at the honda 400ex, but have kind of swayed away from that when reading further into the z400/kfx/dvr.
The funniest thing though is that if you ask this exact question in the Suzuki section of the website you will get the opposite opinion. This was my first time venturing out of the kawa/suzuki part in a few months, and its funny to hear the opposite opinions. Everyone here except for one person is saying the honda is a better machine for you.
Either way this shows a few things. Owners are going to stay loyal to their brands and bikes, and also that most of the sport quads these days you will be very happy with. From what I read the z and 400 are very similar, except that the z has more power. Probably not crazy power though, but definitely a little bit. The z is also liquid cooled, and has reverse which was the clincher for me.
I have also really been throwing around the new vs. used question and I think if I can find a nice used bike then that is what I am going to do. I know the 03 z/kfx have the old frame, and a pain for chain adjustments but if I find a nice one I am going to go with it.
I am going to look at a female ridden kfx tomorrow and hopefully I will get the quad for 3,800. Anyway after my rambling, ride them both for yourself, cause you will hear two different sides of brand wars on this website. Ex. Check out the suzuki section. But even the mags say that the z is a much better bike overall that the 400ex.
Good luck with the decision, and I'll let you know soon what I think of the kfx.

 

Do you think they will add to the EX or discontinue it?

 

I also think that Head has no idea what he is talking about. Why do you think that there is not as much information on the suzuki, or that it will not respond to mods as well as the honda. There is a huge market for aftermarket parts for suzuki, and a ton of information on it. I would not let this go into any of my decision making between the two quads.

 

As of now the ex is not in the 05 lineup but they have a LONG time to add it which they most likely will.

As for that go for an ex man. Best stunt machine in the world hands down. If you liked the wifes stock ex, then go with that. You know you are comftorable with it. The aftermarket is by far the most expansive out of anything. Oh Mudstud I didn't even realize that it was you man. PM wistech and ask him if Rob still has his ex for sale, or if his brother has any sitting around or anything. He got me a really good deal on mine and could prolly get you a stock one for around 3000. 416ex's with a high comp piston, full exhaust, and filter mods will rip on the low end man.

As for the advantages of ex vs. z.... z has reverse and liquid cooling. As of now it is too hard to tell how the z's will do in the long run, but that ex will be kicking forever. So you're looking at a 2000 dollar price difference for 2 hp, 26 to 28. If you're looking for a good deal though, seriously pm wistech.

 

you don't have to listen to me because I wasn't giving the information to you and from what I can tell you are the one with the suzuki...talk about brand loyal. I don't own either I own polaris. I am not trying to start an argument here. I have rode both machines and have raced both. The Z just isn't worth the money.

 

have u guys seen the new z400 check it out at suzuki.com

 

I am not trying to start an argument either head, im just saying that that information is totally false. And yes I do own a suzuki, but it is a 500 4x4. That really has nothing to do in this debate. Like I said I actually have ridden alot of Honda's and like them, but neither the 400ex or the z.
What I am saying is that from what I read, and talking to people that have owned both, say the z is that much better. Check out offroadhaven.com and talk to George there. He is a pretty knowledgeable guy who has owned alot of quads.
And as far as price for both, it is all in the deal that you can get. New around me in NY the z's and 400ex's are only 3-400 dollar difference. So for reverse and liquid cooling I would get a z. Only my opinion. Used you may be able to make out better with a 400ex on price because they are dime a dozen. But like I said maybe, all who you can find selling them, and how bad they really want to get rid of them.... Truth of the matter is, they are both probably close and you will be happy with either. In sitting on both the honda does seem like it has a more comfortable seat

 

key words here... you "have heard" and I have rode. They are both easy to ride and neither one has much power. The honda is more reliable and will be easier to get more hp out of.

 

Head, I looked at your profile and respect your riding ability, but not your posts. Why do you think that the honda is more reliable...because you own them, or have heard that honda's are the most reliable. Any individual quad can have major problems or can be perfect. Have you heard of any major flaws with the z 400...probably not...but if you have please enlighten me. And to say you don't know why anyone would consider a z over an ex is just a little closed minded....