I'm new to atv's and I'm looking to get my first. While I've narrowed my search down to a used 400cc sport quad (400ex or KFX/LTZ/DVX 400) and familiarized myself with the features of each, I still have a couple questions. I plan to do a mix of trail riding and dunes. I know horsepower is key in dunes and the Z400 (and its clones) have a slight edge over the 400ex, but I find myself leaning toward the 400ex based on reliability. I've heard of issues with frame cracking and cam chains wearing out on the z400. Is this a valid concern or is it just first year production problems? The 400ex has been out quite a bit longer and can be had for cheaper, and from what I hear is nearly bullet proof. I would like to keep under $3000 for a solid quad and riding gear. I see a lot of 99-02 400ex's in my area within my price range. Whereas Z400's start at $200-$500 more. How old is too old on the Hondas? What are your thoughts on these two machines?

Thanks!

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'99 Honda 400ex

I havnt heard to much about the Z400 cam chains wearing out but i have heard people talking about the cracking frames. I would go with the honda. I probably wouldnt go any older than a 99' if it was me. Not saying the ones older werent as good as the new ones but its just like buying a new car or truck, the newer ones are gonna be more reliable. you could pick a 2000 for probably 2200-2500 and with a pipe and a cam you will be hangin in there with the stock 450's

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Sponsors:
HRP Sports, AMSOIL, MotoX Support, Motor Tabs, Blitz Vision, Six Feet Deep Clothing, GoPro Cameras, Weapon MX, Fusion Racing and RK Racing Chains.

06 TRX450R:
Pro Taper Bars, Laeger Long Travel A-Arms, Elka Quadruple rate shocks, DuraBlue 2+2 Axel,White Brothers Carbon Fiber Full Pipe, HRC Kit, Maxxis Razer iMX Tires, HiPer Wheels single bead lock, Pro Armor Pro Grab Bar, Pro Armor Fat Peg Nerf Bars, Pro Armor Skid Plates, and K&N Air Box Cover and Filter.

The Z is proving to be just as reliable as the venerable old EX!

The Z likes to rev more, where the EX can be lugged down, so I like the EX for tight trails and the Z for more open faster trails....and the 450R for the open desert.

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Southern California.....

Desert: 450R, 400EX
Trail: Rancher 420 and 350 4X4's
Kids: Two 250EX's and 90
Dual-Sport Bikes: KLX250S and XT225

Past rides: 300EX, 2wd Rancher 350, Recon, TRX90, Z400, LT160, LT80, Warrior, Blaster, CRF230F