In our 2008 Buyer’s Guide issue, we said the Suzuki LT-Z400 “still rips,” but asked for a few upgrades to please both us and the performance ATV buyers. Our take was that it’s still a surprisingly fun quad, but we called for a trail capable LT-R450 with reverse. While that didn’t exactly happen, Suzuki engineers came pretty close.
With the introduction of the redesigned 2009 Z400, most of our request was met. Although, the Z400 retains its proven 398cc single-cylinder four-stroke mill, it takes on several changes, including an all-new look and electronic fuel injection.
Upgraded When it was introduced in 2002, the Z400 was the top dog and very much helped change the performance segment of the market. In fact, several Z’s found time in the ATV Pro class ranks. In 2004, Doug Gust used the QuadSport Z400 to win the ATVA Pro class championship, earning the first title for a four-stroke production quad. However, as time progressed, the Z400 became best known as a trail quad and was quickly overshadowed by the arrival of the QuadRacer LT-R450.
In order to keep customers interested in this 400-class model, Suzuki engineers made it more consumer friendly and even more in sync with the family.
The EFI system replaces the old Mikuni BSR36mm carb and is comprised of a 36mm throttle body, 16-bit ECU, 96 kb ROM and 12-hole injector. It uses different mapping than the R450, but utilizes the same Suzuki technology.
Suzuki says buyers will notice a crisper throttle response and a smoother power delivery compared to the carb-fed machine. They should also enjoy the benefits of EFI and the elimination of jetting changes for riding at extreme elevations and in colder conditions.
Obviously, the Z400 now looks more like the R450 with its sharp fenders and radiator shrouds. The 2009 model also features an all-new removable 12-volt 40/40-watt single halogen headlight replacing the old 30/30-watt unit. Suzuki said the Z400’s new look falls right in line with its
ATV Sport
family approach for its machines.
“With adding EFI, it gets some of the same features as the R450, so it can look like it as well without losing its trail performance. We like that thing as we do that with our sport bikes,” said Glenn Hansen Suzuki Communications Manager.
Another areas riders will notice a change is the machine’s overall width. It now measures 46.9 inches wide, or roughly 1 inch wider than the 2008 model. This should improve its stability and handling, yet not hamper it for operation in tight wooded areas.
The Z retains it’s convenient electric start system and reverse, which make it one of the most rider-friendly quads in the sport. Its electric start system, CDI ignition and EFI are powered by a compact maintenance-free battery.
This model’s suspension and chassis also return unchanged, including the steel-alloy frame, removable steel sub-frame and aluminum swingarm.
Up front, it wears adjustable, piggyback reservoir-style shock absorbers, with 8.5 inches of wheel travel. In back, is an adjustable piggyback reservoir-style shock absorber with 9.1 inches of wheel travel. Its 8.5 inches of ground clearance and 31.9-inch seat height remain the same.
If you were to closely inspect the specifications, you might think the LT-Z has gained a lot of weight, but think again. New for 2009, Suzuki now lists the curb weight (wet, ready-to-ride weight) for all its models. Hansen said the new 425-pound curb weight is on par with last year’s model (which had a dry weight of 372). For our June 2007 issue, we weighed the Z400, using Intercomp scales, and recorded a 416-pound “wet” weight.
“We’re making that change, listing curb weight, for all 2009 products because it’s more real world,” Hansen explained.
Pricing was not set as of press time, but we expect it to be only slightly higher than last year’s $5,999 sticker price. Models should arrive in dealerships by this fall.
For complete specs and more photos, log on to www.atvsport.com.
