2009 ATV Preview

Suzuki
www.suzuki.com

Quadsport Z400
One of the most surprising and welcomed revamps of 2009 is the Suzuki QuadSport Z400. I know, the Z400 has been around since 2002 and has been a favorite among many sport enthusiasts. But for '09, the Z400 has received a major overhaul with several extremely exciting new features added. No, it's not just your typical graphic and plastic change this year; the '09 Z400 inherits all of its new-and-improved features from its larger brother, the QuadRacer LT-R450. You can expect upgrades, such as fuel injection, new ECM settings that improve traction as well as an aggressive new styling, much like the LT-R450.

No more worries of jetting for altitude or struggling with cold starts, as the new 36mm fuel-injection system delivers the precise mixture of fuel and air to the motor. This will result in quicker starts even in cold temperatures and consistent power delivery regardless of altitude changes and temperature. Suzuki also remapped the electronic control module to possess a more linear powerband. It should smooth out the power so that better control of the machine and traction to the tires can be obtained. With these modifications working in tandem, Suzuki delivers a phenomenal recreational package for ATV enthusiasts in '09. We can't wait to get our hands on one.

Yamaha
www.yamaha-motor.com
New Grizzly 550 FI
Yamaha is known for having the most complete sport ATV lineup in the industry. I guess you can now add that reputation to its utility lineup. Yamaha recently introduced the Grizzly 550 FI with electronic power steering. The new 550 FI is based off of the Grizzly 700 FI platform but houses an all-new 558cc fuel-injected motor. Among its great features is a stainless steel exhaust pipe that's resistant to rusting and is designed to keep noise and vibration at a minimum. The airbox is mounted high to keep it from sucking mud and water while a water trap will catch any overflow that makes it through. For a better center of gravity, the fuel tank is mounted in the lowest possible location, just under the seat. And as is common to the Grizzly lineup, the usual easy-to-use push button "on-command" system to engage four-wheel-drive and the differential lock are conveniently located on the handlebar.

To help soak up rough terrain, the new Grizzly makes use of five-way adjustable shocks and an independent rear suspension system. While maintaining excellent ground clearance at 11.8 inches, Yamaha engineers chose to mount the shocks to the lower A-arms which will help improve handling. And the arced suspension arms improve its ability to clear ruts, rocks and other low-frame stoppers. Thankfully, Yamaha chose to go with hydraulic disc brakes on all four tires, allowing stopping to be a cinch. And to further help keep the ride smooth and improve comfort, a six-inch-thick plush seat is used.

We also like the fact that Yamaha reshaped and designed its thumb throttle to lessen fatigue and thumb-pump while on extended rides. Lastly, the new digital meter design includes indicators for speedometer, odometer, dual trips, clock, hourmeter, four-wheel-drive indicator, transmission position, fuel gauge and a self-diagnostic and actuator system. We'll fill you in on its performance once we've had a chance to throw a leg over it.

Grizzly 450
Being one of the best-valued midsize ATVs on the market today, the Grizzly 450 didn't get ignored for 2009. To start the list off, this 450 received an update in styling, modeled closely after its larger brother, the Grizzly 700. Yamaha also added a new storage area on the front fender for storing anything of importance while out riding. And to improve comfort, the 450 now makes use of a thicker and more comfortable seat. Oh, and one last thing, Yamaha's new thumb throttle design made it on the Grizzly 450 for 2009 as well. We can't wait to check out that new throttle.