Z400 MX Development
Engine testing on the dyno was easy enough but further engine testing on the track was becoming
very frustrating. I have spent the last several weeks on suspension and chassis development in an
atempt to make the bike easier to ride on an MX track. Front suspension was not a big issue, rear
suspension, and high center of gravity was a big issue. By using a differant progressive shock travel
ratio from stock, a multi stage spring setup and position sensative valveing , the rear started to handle
a lot better. Next I moved the battery up front, built a new fuel tank, a new sub frame with a flip back
seat setup, a new air box, and 250R full bore pastic. Now the top of the quad is 2.5 inches lower
than the stock Z400.
First ride impressions were very impressive. It now handle a lot better on a MX track. It corners a
lot easier than before but the big supprises were how much nicer it is to jump and the change in
handling in rough sections. Before the back end wanted to swap back and forth in some rough
sections but now goes thru the same sections with little or no side to side swapping.
The biggest complaint I have is that it no longer looks like a Suzuki. Maybe with new Flo-Yellow
plastic and stock graphics that will change.