I can get either a 2005 Honda 400ex or a 2003 Suzuki Z400 for the same price $2800, same condition and pretty close on hrs. I know this is a Suzuki forum but is the a difference in the bikes that should swing my decision? I kind of like the looks of the Honda better but not if the Suzuki is clearly a better bike. Also is the price a good deal? Both bikes have minor scratches but no cracks, tires are stock and still in good shape, nothing visibly wrong with either.

 

I'm a Honda lover but both are very good machines.
I'd be getting the TRX if for no other reason than it's 2 years newer for the same cost.

 

This is a stupid question, but sometimes I get my ATVs mixed up. Does the 400EX have reverse? Or is it the 450 that doesn't have reverse?

Anyway, if the 400EX has reverse, go for the Honda. I love Suzukis, but if I am not mistaken, the 2003 Lt-z400 had weak upper shock mounts. Here again, I could be thinking of a different ATV.

 

Hmm that's a close call.

2003 was the first year for the Z400 and it had a tendency to snap its rear axle. So if the wheeler has an after-market rear axle then that might change things. But the Z-400 is an awesome machine. My co-worker just picked up a beat to hell 2003 and it runs great. They're not good cold weather starters though, if you do a lot of winter riding. From what I've read though, they will outperform the 400EX.

2005 was the rear Honda did a little redesign on the 400EX. It was the year they added reverse. The 400EX is stone cold reliable as are most Hondas. Here's an article I found on the new 400EX

http://www.atvsport.com/output.cfm?id=870877


So personally, I would go for the new 400EX. If the Z-400 has the after-market rear axle then I might change my mind just cause I'm a Suzuki guy (Had great luck with them).

Hope this helps! Let us know what you get and post some pics!

 

The z out runs, and out handles the honda in every aspect. BUT, the honda's reliability is simply untouchable.

So, you really couldnt go wrong with either.

 

A 03 for 2800.00? way to much. I picked up a 03 for 1200.00. nothing wrong with it. around here you can get a an 06 for 2500.00. as for cold weather starting. rejet and that problem is fixed. ofcourse they are jetted lean for passing the em. test.

 

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

A 03 for 2800.00? way to much. I picked up a 03 for 1200.00. nothing wrong with it. around here you can get a an 06 for 2500.00. as for cold weather starting. rejet and that problem is fixed. ofcourse they are jetted lean for passing the em. test.</end quote></div>

True, I didn't think about that. My coworker picked his up for $1600. Had a Durablue axle, nerfs, and Yosh Full system. But as I said, beat to hell. Looks like the guy sand blasted every square inch of plastic.

 

whoa, whoa, whoa. a z400 for $1600?????

please excuse me while i make my way to craigslist lmao....

 

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

This is a stupid question, but sometimes I get my ATVs mixed up. Does the 400EX have reverse? Or is it the 450 that doesn't have reverse?



Anyway, if the 400EX has reverse, go for the Honda. I love Suzukis, but if I am not mistaken, the 2003 Lt-z400 had weak upper shock mounts. Here again, I could be thinking of a different ATV.</end quote></div>

The z has reverse for your information and the z will probaby beat the 400ex stock to stock. And my z400 hasnt gotten a crack or break in the frame anywhere and i have jumped the thing pretty good.

 

With the possible problems on the z400 definately get the honda especially since its new anyways