“The 2003 Z400 took ATV performance to a new level,” Glenn Hansen, Suzuki’s Communication Manager explained during the presentation. “It pushed the performance edge and gave Doug Gust the Championship in the 2004 Pro Production class. The 2009 QuadSport has once again set a new level of performance.”

In addition to adopting the aggressive QuadRacer R450 look, the new Z400 borrowed other elements from its racy sibling. First and foremost is the addition of Fuel Injection. Electronic fuel injection gives the Z400 a noticeably smoother and quicker throttle response, improved starting and performance in a variety of conditions, and improved fuel efficiency.

Mel Harris, Vice President of American Suzuki Motor Corporation, spoke highly of the efforts that went into the design: “Suzuki is definitely the leader with fuel injection in its products.”

The 2009 model also boasts an R450-like logic and ignition system. This Engine Control Unit monitors throttle position, engine RPM and the rate of change of both. By deciding the optimum settings for volume and timing, the ECU also gives the ATV improved traction.

The new QuadSport’s engine updates include a change in cam profile and timing, an intake port redesign, change in internal muffler structure and shorter exhaust header pipe. These four elements help deliver a noticeable improvement in low to mid-range power output while maintaining the Z’s strong top-end power.

Externally, the chassis has been redesigned to be more accessible, functional and user-friendly. The front track has been widened by an inch, and the caster, camber and trail have all been changed. All of these modifications give the Z400 a lighter steering feel and more sure-footed handling.

Changes in both the front and rear suspension offer the rider a firmer response plus a plush feel resulting in a comfortable, enjoyable ride.

Ergonomically, the new Suzuki QuadSport moves the rider into a different position that allows more freedom of movement for weight shifting and comfort. The handlebars have been lowered and reshaped and the footrests have been lowered and widened to the same width as the R450.

Additional changes to the 2009 model include other R450 inspired updates that make the Suzuki QuadSport Z400 the perfect all-around sand, trail and track ATV. No other ATV offers the versatility of the QuadSport Z400.

“Engineered for Fun”, the QuadSport Z400 offers a combination of trail-riding fun and high-performance attitude that keep it a breed apart in performance, styling and comfort.

The 2009 QuadSport Z400 is now available in both white and yellow for $6199 MSRP.

Dustin Wimmer was also nominated for the 2008 AMA Pro Racing SPEED Athlete of the Year award. Wimmer enjoyed the event: “It was really good. The biggest highlight for me was getting the nomination. They said I was the first quad rider ever to get nominated, which is pretty awesome!”

Aside from the pros, the top amateur riders were also in attendance to receive recognition for their achievements. Suzuki was well represented at the banquet, with amateur champions receiving multiple awards, including: Doug Lanzer (Open A Champion), Michael Brewster (4-Stroke A Champion), Chase Cunningham (Junior 25 Plus Champion), Brian Jenkins (Vet 30 B/C Champion), and Joel Hetrick (Schoolboy Sr. 15-17 Champion).

Suzuki also won the coveted 2008 Manufacturer of the Year award for the series, however this trophy will be presented at the AMA banquet.

The banquet was well received by those who came, and was a fitting end to an exciting 2008 season of racing.

Suzuki 4 Wheelers: Suzuki QuadRacer R450 | Suzuki QuadSport Z250 | Suzuki QuadSport Z400

Source