I was wondering if the Z400 frames were really as bad as everyone is saying they are. I went to a Z400 forum and there was alot of people sayin how they are weak and suck. I mean really are they that bad? And in the 2004 models did they fix this problem. Also is the KFX400 frame better.

 

In the large scheme of things the quanity breaking is a low percentage. However if it's your frame that breaks it seems like everyone has the problem. A lot of what you read on here is spam to put another quad down as well. It's no different then the raptor stories about how aweful the tranny's and starters are.

You can also buy the frame brace for under $100.00 that will correct where the vast majority of the failures occur. It's a simple bolton item and add's some strength to the shock braces.

The frames are exactly the same on the KFK as they are on the Z's.

 

Well I know I read up and study up alot on something Im gonna purchase and things like that just make it sound like they are a piece of junk. I really want one but if thats like a common thing Id be more affraid to get one. I mean I wouldnt wanna be out trail riding or doin jumps then all the sudden I brake the frame and get stranded. So do ya know if they have corrected this issue? And is this a real common thing like does almost everyones Z do it, or is it just one of those bad apple things.

 

Sixxx, don't be to concerned about the frame issue on these bikes. There are some cases of breakage around the shock mounts but it is a low percentage in the grand scheme of things. Myself and four of my friends have Z/KFX's and have done some pretty good size jumps both in the sand, and on hardpack without any problems. And let me tell you, these bikes are not ridden gently either! my .02![img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

I agree with Yellowzee400. Zero problems here. But keep your eyes on it. I have a 400ex, with two welded cracks in its frame. BTW the gusset kit is not a bolt on its a weld on deal.

 

The Gusset kits are a weld-on fix but the frame brace from Arens is a bolt on fix.

 

any links to photos of the cracked FRAMES?

 

i got my z the first week it was available. Yes my frame broke , however my dealer got me fixed up no hassles. As goes with any new model comes the bugs and suzuki had a welding issue. I have no dought that they have fixed this problem in 04. the first thing i broke was the axle whitch suzuki also replaced for me free of charge. I race mx & desert on mine almost every weekend and i am completly satisfied with z400 it was fast right out of the box and after a year and some aftermarket parts its a top notch contender.

 

I've been trying to break my frame, but can't seem to do it.........

Just kinding, but I ride hard on both trails and MX, and I'm no small guy (190 lbs..maybe 200lbs). My axle and frame are fine.....now my knees, neck, wrists and back are another story!!!!!! I do believe if you are a hard core MX'er you should spend the $100 to upgrade the frame, but that is small bills compared to what goes into a true race machine. The Z is a sweet machine, you just have to understand its weaknesses and build around them.....

Don't worry about buying a Z...you will be happy. People away talk more about being unhappy...the rest of us are out enjoying the great new machines that have come out in the last few years....

Enjoy....

 

KFX frames sux i broke mine 2wice im on my second one check out my page for pics