I'm getting back into riding after awhile and from what I have been reading I'm really interested in the 400ex or the z400. My budget will be under 3000 so a newer bike is out of the question. I am leaning towards the z400 because of the reverse factor in the older bikes and from listening to people on here bragg about their comfort. I plan on mostly trail riding but I love running wide open as much as possible. My main concern is clogging up the radiator with mudd and overheating compared to the air cooled ex. And how reliable are the older z's in the 03-04 range and do all years have reverse? Thanks in advance...By the way, I'm 6 ft., 205lbs.

 

Yes all the z400's come with reverse, and for the most part they are all reliable.....

The '03/'04 years had some frame failure issues, but in most cases it was extreme jumping and/or racing that caused it. I don't know of anyone who had frame breakage during trail riding, or typical weekend riding.

As far as overheating, because of mud clogging, I can say from experience this has never happened to me and I ride in heavy mud a lot....... I do run "Engine Ice" coolant, so maybe that helps, but I've never had an overheating situation .........