Overall Impression
I've become accustomed to gripping the bar of built 450s and huge 800cc-plus super quads that work the body like a Bowflex could only dream. While the 400EX doesn't possess this gut-wrenching power that has become the norm of today's machines, it does have the ability to take you just about anywhere you choose to go and make it back with no malfunctions and with plenty of power and speed. Don't get me wrong, though, the 400 is a peppy powerplant and shouldn't be taken lightly. But if you're exiting a turn, neck and neck with a 450R, you will more than likely be second into the next corner. But we understand that not everyone is searching for the fastest, most powerful quad money can buy. And if this is you, a 400EX may suit your needs perfectly while providing years of reliable service.
And speaking of reliability, it wasn't too long ago that I headed out to Mexico to race the Baja 2000 (which was actually 1726 grueling miles) on a mostly stock 400EX with no engine modification. Some people thought we were crazy. But not only did we win our class and finished third overall, the same machine actually went back the following year and completed another Baja 1000 with no mechanical failures. Today, that very 400EX is still running strong and roaming the trails of Georgia. I have numerous trophies hanging on my wall that can be credited to a 400EX, and I'm glad to see that it continues to live on and have a place in the local Honda dealer's showroom.
Extended Warranty
For all 2008 model Honda ATVs including the TRX400EX, the factory warranties have been extended from six months to a full year. Just another great feature to tack onto this machine's long list of great reasons to buy.
| 2008 HONDA TRX400EX |
| Retail price: | $5999 |
| ENGINE |
| Engine type: | Single-cylinder, four-stroke |
| Displacement: | 397cc |
| Bore x stroke: | 85.0x70.0mm |
| Cooling: | Air-cooled |
| Carburetion: | 38mm with accelerator pump |
| Lubrication: | Dry sump |
| Starting: | Electric |
| DRIVETRAIN |
| Drive system: | O-ring chain, 2x4 |
| Transmission: | 5-speed manual with reverse |
| SUSPENSION (TYPE/TRAVEL) |
| Front: | Dual A-arms, independent/8.2 in. |
| Rear: | Swingarm/9.1 in. |
| TIRES/BRAKES |
| Front tires: | 22x7-10 radial |
| Rear tires: | 20x10-9 radial |
| Front brakes: | Dual hydraulic discs |
| Rear brakes: | Hydraulic disc |