I'm just kind of shopping around for a new quad, I was wondering if anyone could give me some specs on the 400ex and z400. If possible tell me the strengths and weaknesses of both. Thanks

 

I forget the actual numbers.

I would take the Z400 over the 400ex because it has a little more power. Although I have no idea how the 2005/2006 400ex feels like as a reverse gear has been added and revised Gear Ratios. By comparing the 2003 and 2004 models on which I have knowledge on, this is pretty much the breakdown:

Power: z400
top speed: z400
Handling: don't know
reliability: 400ex

Take note that the Z400 has a reverse gear while the 400ex does not in 2003/2004. The power and top speed is not a lot more.

 

This must be the most asked question in the forum. How about this:

http://forums.atvconnection.com/mess...did/475262.cfm

 

I seen nowhere in that thread where it answered my question.

 

Both are good machines, but I'd rate the 400ex as a good bit more durable, and the OEM replacement parts are very inexpensive. Like $30 for an A arm, $50 for a stem, etc.... The Z400 is a little faster, and has potential for serious motor building as Gust's z400 runs with YFZ's and 450's, but is very heavily modded. The z 400 has adjustable front shocks this year too. Big + there.
Myself, I'd buy a 400ex as mine was so good to me, as I never had one DNF. That says ALOT! I would give up some speed to have something I trust will take me to the finish line in a 21/2 to 3hr race. It is that important to me.

 

I own a 400ex and my friend owns a z400 and we'll both say the 400ex is better. Yes the z400 is BARELY faster, and yes it is liquid cooled, you spend more time worrying about it breaking than my Honda. I know my honda will still be going 4 years down the road, but will his z400? I doubt it. Here's a few specs you might want to check out:

2005 Z400: 398cc, 4-stroke, single cylinder, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve, TSCC®
Bore Stroke: 90.0 x 62.6mm
Compression Ratio: 11.3:1
Fuel System: MikuniTM BSR36
Lubrication: Dry sump
Ignition: Digital/transistorized
Transmission: 5-speed, with reverse
Final Drive: #520 chain
Overall Length: 1830mm (72.0 in.)
Overall Width: 1165mm (45.9 in.)
Overall Height: 1160mm (45.7 in.)
Seat Height: 810mm (31.9 in.)
Ground Clearance: 265mm (10.4 in.)
Wheelbase: 1245mm (49.0 in.)
Dry Weight: 169kg (372 lbs.)
Suspension Front: Independent, double A-arm, fully adjustable preload, compression & rebound damping, 8.5 inches of travel
Suspension Rear: Linkage-type, gas/oil damped, fully adjustable spring preload, adjustable compression and rebound damping, 9.1 inches of travel
Brakes Front: Dual hydraulic discs
Brakes Rear: Single hydraulic disc
Tires Front: AT 22 x 7-10
Tires Rear: AT 20 x 10-9
Fuel Tank Capacity: 10 liters (2.6 gal.)


400EX: Engine Type 397cc RFVC air-cooled dry-sump single-cylinder four-stroke

Bore and Stroke 85.0mm x 70.0mm

Carburetion 38.0mm piston-valve with accelerator pump

Ignition CD with electronic advance

Starter Electric


DRIVE TRAIN


Clutch Manual

Transmission Five-speed with reverse

Driveline O-ring-sealed chain


CHASSIS / SUSPENSION / BRAKES


Front Suspension Independent double-wishbone with Showa shocks, five-position spring-preload adjustability; 8.2-inch travel

Rear Suspension Pro-Link fully adjustable single Showa shock; 9.1-inch travel

Front Brakes Dual hydraulic 174.0mm discs

Rear Brake Single 220.0mm disc

Front Tires 22 x 7-10 knobby radial

Rear Tires 20 x 10-9 knobby radial


DIMENSIONS


Length 72.2 inches

Width 45.3 inches

Height 43.7 inches

Wheelbase 48.4 inches

Seat Height 31.9 inches

Ground Clearance 4.3 inches

Turning Radius 10.5 feet

Dry Weight 386 pounds

Fuel Capacity 2.6 gallons, including 0.4-gallon reserve