I'm getting back into quads, and I'm noticing a later model 400ex in good shape is going to run me around $3200 give or take, but I have an opportunity to pick up a 2001 "project" bike for about $1600. I know this thing needs some major carb work, among other things.

I don't mind the idea of a project quad. I'm the type who will really overhaul it. Given that it needs a carb cleaning, I'm thinking of getting an Edelbrock carb for it. But, in the end, I don't want more than $2500 into a 2001 quad. Any advice for me? Are there too many other things that can go wrong on an older machine that will cause me to sink too much into it? Or, if I have $1000 to fix it up, am I going to end up with a hell of a machine?

I appreciate any feedback. I've considered the Z400 also, but I'm going to do a lot of trail riding only, and for me, the simpler the quad, the better, meaning I don't care of it's liquid cooled or has reservoir shocks, etc. I'm a Honda guy mainly.

 

If you don't mind turning a wrench, getting a neglected a 400EX is a great way to get a quality quad. The 400EX is a solid trail capable quad with plenty of power.

Maintenaince on the 400 is pretty simple, so to bring one back with a little TLC should not be too tuff, or too expensive. I'd clean the carb and get her running so you can truely access what it needs before spending a lot of money on her.

 

How much of a project is it? If it is a friends I would do a compression and leakdown test, make sure all the motor mounts are good and check the frame for hairline cracks. If the motor is good and you're just rebuilding a carb it's no big deal. I got a 2001 project 400ex and parts can add up, then you get hooked on mods and your wallet lightens up a little. I love it personally. Restoration is just as much fun as riding to me. Take a look at the shs powersports website. There you can get a good idea what OEM parts are going to cost you.

 

It all depends on the "project." If it is going to be very expensive, I'd say get the newer 400. If not, I would buy the older one. Building a bike makes it a lot more interesting.. I like working on them just about as much as riding the things. If you build it, you baby it more. It's also a nice feeling seeing before and after..

 

2005 or newer, REVERSE, and i heard had a little more power than the older model.

 

Thanks everyone. In the end, I decided I really only need a trail riding bike, and bought the combination of best condition and least expensive - a 2005 300ex for $2500. And it's almost in new condition. There's nothing wrong with it, and it looks great.

I just got sick of looking. One guy's idea of "excellent condition" or "like new" and my idea of those things can be completely different. I think I got a good buy, and if I decide I want more power, or a 4x4, I may still be able to afford those things in a year and keep the 300ex.

 

<div class="FTQUOTE"><begin quote>Originally posted by: project400ex

Thanks everyone. In the end, I decided I really only need a trail riding bike, and bought the combination of best condition and least expensive - a 2005 300ex for $2500. And it's almost in new condition. There's nothing wrong with it, and it looks great.



I just got sick of looking. One guy's idea of "excellent condition" or "like new" and my idea of those things can be completely different. I think I got a good buy, and if I decide I want more power, or a 4x4, I may still be able to afford those things in a year and keep the 300ex.</end quote></div>

You can never have too many toys in the garage...

 

I personally love older, just as long as you can fix them up or (better) they have been restored.