Honda 400ex... Most important... Its a Honda...
Written: Apr 26 '06
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Pros: Great Suspension, Able to withstand severe beatings with proper maintenance, FUN!
Cons: Power band limited to higher RPMS
The Bottom Line: I would recommend this product to anyone in the market for a good, long-lasting ATV simply because it just works like its supposed to.
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| netwizard1001's Full Review: 2003 Honda Sportrax 400EX |
A while back I was looking for a quad to buy that would suit my needs. At the time I didn't have a boatload of money to spend on a quad and so I settled for the 2004 400ex, but it sure doesn't feel that way. On my first ride I knew that this was an excellent product and best of all priced below some of its top Competitors
As many know by now, and certainly those who follow and are up to date on Honda products, the machine harnesses its power from a 397cc air cooled four-stroke motor. Yet dated, the 400ex stock can just barley hang on to its rivals. Climbing steep hills in first (sometimes second) will show you the engine has some good low end and does not feel strenuous. However, in straight-line drags, the power can definitely be found in the higher RPMS, and this can be a bit disappointing .
The one key thing that sets apart the bigger, badder machines is its suspension. The Front Suspension rides on Independent double-wishbones with Showa shocks, five-position spring-preload adjustability that yields about 8.2-inches of travel while the rear suspension is a Pro-Link fully adjustable single Showa shock that yields slightly more travel at about 9.1-inches. This atv seems to take jumps, rapid turns, and hard landings as if they were the very thing for which it was born for. The included tires respond well to dirt but can become more than uncomfortably squirley under acceleration in slightly sandy conditions.
However, one thing one should consider is that this engine responds exceptionally well to modifications of every shape, size and color. If you wish see more potential out the motor here are a few simple, relatively cheap modifications that will help you pull the most out of the motor. Currently, I have installed a new Slip-on pipe, a White Brothers Rev Box, a .160 jet (compare that to the .140 that is included), and a K&N high flow air filter. I believe the biggest power increase was found through the installation of the slip-on muffler. The slip-on that I purchased is a simple flow through design that allows for maximum flow and maximum sound. Although my neighbors are not happy with the latter. This immediately gave the motor more low end and it was able to breathe better. Combine all of these simple modifications totaling less than $500 and one can notice a huge increase in power, torque, and acceleration. Before, drag-racing with other quads of the same displacement was almost out of the question. But now, I can keep up with quads having 100 more cc's of displacement.
All in all the Honda TRX 400ex is a very reliable, and once modified, powerful tool. It has thus far sustained some pretty severe abuse and still cranks right up with no problems.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 4000
Condition: New
Model Year: 2004
Model and Options: Slip on muffler, K&N performance air filter, Rev Box , Bigger Jet
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Epinions.com ID:
netwizard1001
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Reviews written: 4
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