Want a 400ex project quad, what to look for..

[wheelman]

I'm thinking of picking up a 400ex for a project quad. Something I can get in decent shape for about $1500 or less as a spare, would like to teach girlfriend to ride and also for buddies to ride with me. As you guys are the 400ex experts, can you give me some things to look for when buying a used 400ex? Any certain years have good features to look for? What main differences are there between year models. It looks like from looking at craigslist i'll be hunting for something like a 99-04. Any advice appreciated.

[Ian400ex]

- I believe 05 and/or up have reverse. :)
- There are 3 different types of plastics from 2000 to 2010 (preference).

+ Welcome to the forums!

[Ian400ex]

Just found this article about 400EX's.

"Story of the 400ex"

http://400excentralky.tripod.com/id1.html

It covers the 400ex up to 2005

[wheelman]

Awesome, I like reading things like that.

[honda400ex2003]

Originally posted by Ian400ex
Just found this article about 400EX's.

"Story of the 400ex"

http://400excentralky.tripod.com/id1.html

It covers the 400ex up to 2005

good find Ian! :D everything has been covered as far as differences for the most part. there are some more really minor differences too but they dont really change anything. A bit biger carb supposedly, different gear shaft for the front sprocket, brake lights on the new ones. that is about it and nothing to wory about really. steve

[honda400ex2003]

oh and welcome to the site! enjoy, steve

[trailrider894]

- I believe 05 and/or up have reverse.

Hahaha... I don't have reverse, and its kinda funny, because people who have reverse need it all the time!! and people who don't have it never seem to need it. I think it makes us a little more paranoid when heading down a trail that we don't know though.

[zach0199]

Originally posted by trailrider894
Hahaha... I don't have reverse, and its kinda funny, because people who have reverse need it all the time!! and people who don't have it never seem to need it. I think it makes us a little more paranoid when heading down a trail that we don't know though.

My feelings too about the trails. It would be nice to have but these machines are light enough that I don't mind getting off and picking it up and turning it around expeically if ur ridding with a buddy its cake. You just get use to not having it and ajust before getting in a sticky situation (most of the time :D )

[Ian400ex]

Originally posted by honda400ex2003
good find Ian! :D
Haha ;)

[trailrider894]

Yep, i will get shot for this, but i think it makes us better riders.

[Ian400ex]

Originally posted by trailrider894
Yep, i will get shot for this, but i think it makes us better riders.

Haha, my bike before the 400 didn't have reverse either. ;)

[Ratman]

well I put reverse on mine and I can tell my riding skills have gone down hill.