I have been kicking around picking up a 400 and wondering if this quad has any issues I should know about. It is not for me it is for the ol lady and yes she can ride...

 

Other than the 03 models having some frame issues (fixed in 04) and the 05-06 models having a recall for the magnesium covers on the motor, they are a good solid quad.

 

So you are saying I should look for an 04

 

Not at all. Just take a good look if it's an 03 at the area where the shocks mounts are on the frame. That is where they cracked. Normal riding wouldn't cause it, but lots of jumping would. If it's and 03 and a good deal, they sell the gusset kits to remedy the problem. I think they're about 100 bucks, but I'm not positive on the price.

 

my 04 Z has been traouble free ,but the latest 07 no problems that I've heard of

 

No problems with my 07. Im very impressed with it. I bought it for my wife. She loves it.

 

my 05 has been almost perfect.... I changed the magnesium cover out for aluminum, but outside of that mine has been a beast..... normal wear and tear and maintenance and nothing more....

 

I would have to say the brakes must be above normal. I'm on my 4th tail light from being rear ended when we have a sudden stop.

Other than gas, this has been my biggest expense.

 

brakes are good enough that you can easily can do a stoppie with out any problem

 

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

Not at all. Just take a good look if it's an 03 at the area where the shocks mounts are on the frame. That is where they cracked. Normal riding wouldn't cause it, but lots of jumping would. If it's and 03 and a good deal, they sell the gusset kits to remedy the problem. I think they're about 100 bucks, but I'm not positive on the price.</end quote></div>

A quick search came up with this.

I just received my Z400 Gusset Kit. It consist of 9 total pieces. The kit was purchased from kenny St. Clair of Morgantown Honda 304-296-9055. This kit cost $49.00 plus shipping, and it seems to be well worth the expense. I will be posting pics soon.

Contains:
1 - bottom plate to weld between frame tubing where lower A-arms Mount
2 - Shock Mount gussets
6 - frame gussets