Looking to purchase a z400 or kaw 400. owners - give me the pluses and minuses of the z400. what, if anything, you dislike. i like the reverse feature both machines offer compared to the honda 450. i know they (suz and kaw) are just about the same machine. looking for something for trail riding, dunes, and all around fun.

 

The Z/KFX will suit you perfect for your type of riding. The power is smooth BUT strong for a 400cc quad in my opinion.

later
Superstar

 

i think the z is to high geared my 04 is is dont like to be lugg at low speed

 

lugged

 

There's been a lot of people asking this question. You should search some of the older threads to see what people have said. I'm really happy with my Z400. It handles great on the trails and has plenty of power in the sand. The reverse is great! My only gripe is the huge swingarm. The seat is super comfy and slim toward the front so you can grab the gas tank with your knees in the turns. I'll never regret buying it.

 

I just bought a DVX 400 and I haven't ridden it much yet but so far I love it.It has awesome power and handling.Turns on a dime and I like the way all the controls work and are laid out.My only complaints so far are that it does seem geared a little high for very slow riding(I'm used to riding a warrior) and the ground clearance is very limited if your going through any ruts due to the very thick plastic rear skid plate.The other thing I found odd is that there is no fuel shutoff.I guess the fuel doesn't just flow into the carburetor like on most bikes it goes into some sort of a diaghram set up.It hasn't been a problem but I find it a little unerving when I'm trailering it around not to be able to shut the fuel off.

 

I wonder is that the same with the Z and KFX? I've never shut off the fuel for trailering on my Warrior, though I probably should.

The taller gearing is easily fixed with a smaller front sprocket, but at the cost of some top speed.

 

Yes, it's the same. All three quads are the same mechanically. And there is a place on the fuel valve that acts as an off position, I believe it's called the prime position, but it's not a true shut off. You'll be happy with a Z, and there are other forums with free access to classifieds where you can outfit your quad with every mod you want for cheap, if you don't mind slightly used parts.

 

DO NOT leave it in the prime position!! The fuel will constantly flow into the carb. It is vacuum actuated so just leave it in on/run position and it'll be fine.

You won't be dissapointed with any of the 400's.

 

Whoa that is exactly opposite of what you should do.The prime position is to let fuel run into the carb or engine to start it after running out or in extreme cold.Absolutely do not leave the fuel valve in this position! Severe engine damage can occur if the engine fills with fuel and then you try to start it.It can "hydraulic" and bend the connecting rod.Since there is no way to turn the engine over other than the electric start you would never know it was full of fuel.Just touch the starter button and you could cause major damage.