looking for quad for the wife. is the 400 and 250 the same frame. and what would you do for size.

 

These two are nothing alike!

If she isn't petite, then you are way ahead on a 400:

The 400EX is a full size, full-on chain drive sport quad with a full manual left hand clutch. Handling and suspension are excellent! It is larger, a little heavier, and more powerful than the 250. Most of my friend's wives ride full size sport quads.....lots of them 400EX's!
If she is likely to be a more agressive rider, another machine in this class is the Suzuki Z400. It is faster than the 400EX.

If she is petite, I would suggest one of the following medium size machines:

The 250EX is based on the Recon utility quad. It is shaft drive with a transverse mounted engine, and a "sportclutch" autoclutch manual transmission. Handling is great, tons of fun and easy to ride, but the shaft drive rear end limits suspension travel. It will go anywhere any 2wd utility will go, but it's way lighter.

Also in this class are the 300EX and Raptor 250, and maybe even a Blaster. These are chain drive with left hand full manual clutches. Great handling, and better suspension than the 250EX (except for maybe the Blaster?). The Yamahas in particular are very light, but neither has reverse.

 

I agree with Recon. Two different quads. The 250 is a fun vehicle but if your wife wants to really ride and get aggressive, the 400 would be the choice.

My 14 year old just started last season with the 250 and I can already see he's ready to move up. The lack of a full manual clutch and the short wheel base will keep your wheels on the ground with the 250.

If your wife is a beginner but capable of riding well, split the difference and get the 300 ex.

 

my daughter 16 has a 250ex and loves it..she can go anywhere anyone else can go and keeps up fine.
i let her ride my 420 rancher and she complaned about not having her bike.

 

J, don't get me wrong, it's a fun bike. My kid keps up with us as well, I can just see how he could probably use a little more suspension and some stronger low-end to get the front off the ground over whoops and rocks.