Suzuki LT-Z 400 - Quad Sport

Suzuki is planning to join the growing market of sporting quad bikes with an aggressive new model dubbed the QuadSport Z400.

Powered by the proven 400cc engine from the successful electric start DR-Z 400 Enduro motorcycle. Dyno runs undertaken on the DR-Z engine have compared very favourably with Yamaha's WR models and proved much stronger than Honda's XR 400 engine.

This new Suzuki has clearly been designed with sporting ability as the main emphasis. A light weight of only 168 kilograms will be one of the most important contributing factors to it's sporting ability. However, the very narrow seat and bodywork offer a high degree of rider movement which may prove just as important when it comes down to cornering potential.

A 5-speed foot-shifted manual gearbox is utilised with a lockout reverse gear to aid in tight manoeuvring.

Preload adjustable independent double wishbone suspension should help keep things under control and offers 210mm of travel. The rear suspension offers 231mm of travel and is adjustable for preload, compression damping and rebound damping. Ground clearance is a generous 262mm on a wheelbase of only 1,245mm. Pulling this new beast up to a stop should be no problem with disc brakes all round.

Unfortunately we still have a while to wait with Suzuki dealers not expecting the bike to arrive until next April at a price yet to be set. But no doubt this preview on the machine will have quad racer aficionados salivating already.

Engine	398cc liquid cooled 4-stroke DOHC 4-valve single
Induction	Mikuni BSR36
Ignition	Electronic
Starter	Electric
Gearbox	5 forward, 1 reverse
Seat Height	810mm
Clearance	262mm
Fuel	10 Litres
Suspension – Front	Independent double wishbone – preload adjustable
Suspension – Rear	Independent swingarm – Fully adjustable
Brakes – Front	Dual discs
Brakes – Rear	Disc
Dry Weight	168 kilos
Warranty	12 months
RRP (AUS)	Not available until April 2002