Thinking about getting a peppier quad. Keeping in mind that my EX has been absolutely bullet-proof, could I expect the same from a Z400? Hears about some quality issues w/ the a-arms & axle. What bolt on power-ups is everyone using?
Is there really that much difference in power? How bout bottom end?
All my 400 has is a 14T front sprocket, K&N w/ no lid, jetted and a WB slip on. I figure I'd take a $2000 hit...IS IT WORTH IT? I simply can't keep up w/ my friends on their Banshees, 250R's and dirtbikes.
Thanks.

 

In terms of handling, there isn't a major difference between the machines, but the Z does have a lighter feel. In terms of power, the Z is quite a bit faster. In stock form, the Z is pretty lame on the low end (where the EX is good on the low end), but this is cured pretty quick with an aftermarket pipe (I have an FMF PowerBomb, Titamium 4, K&N, and vented airbox lid). The Z engine is more of a rever, and is at its best ridden revved out at around 6,000 rpm. You mentioned riding with Banshees. I am beating my buddies who have Banshees, not because the Z is faster, but because IT IS REASONABLY FAST, AND HANDLES WAY BETTER!! Anytime the trail is whooped out (most of the time in the desert) or technical, I drop the Shees easy!!

Either you have to wait around for Hondas next move, or jump ship and move now.

 

Man, I'd never trade an EX for a raptor or a KFX. But that Predator in my garage changed my mind.

 

i would go from a 400 to a z because its 5k more for like 5 more hp i would just get a predator raptor ds you know big bore quads

 

save your money and keep the EX, then give Leonard Duncan a call at Duncan Racing, and ask him about the new water cooled 465cc 400ex cylinders he's working on 619-258-6306. i almost wish i paid less for a 400ex and put a little into the motor..just so i wouldnt feel so bad about owning a suzuki...but the LTZ is a great bike...except for the cracking frame

 

Firehawk...witnessed a 400EX beat a Predator last week at the dunes in a drag...well, the 400 was beating it for 95% of the race, then it seemed the Predator had a 6th gear and took it by a 1-2 lenghts..both had WB silp ons. Not too impressed...Predator isn't even an option.

Does the EX and the Z have the same bolt pattern? I'd just swap out my rims.

 

The Z is pretty darn nice. I would make the jump easily. Or get a Predator, but either way you would be stepping up quite a bit.

 

Same bolt pattern!!

 

Padzz,

I had a 400ex before the Z400. The 400ex had an E-series pipe and a K&N. ItT was pretty quick for an EX. The Z400 stock felt just as quick but not, as much lower end as the EX. Now that the Z is piped withthe K&N it is day and night. You reallly have to just try it. Give me a call and you can take mine for a spin.

MX

 

Even if you had a Z400, you wouldn't be able to keep up with a Banshee.

I imagine, for under $2000, you can get a 440 kit for your EX and do some other mods to help make it quicker.

I wouldn't take the hit.