SUZUKI UNVEILS 2009 QUADSPORT
Source: Suzuki
Jul 1, 2008 - 2:06:05 PM
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Suzuki has formally introduced the 2009 QuadSport LT-Z400 at a media event held
at the Vessels Stallion Farm in Bonsall, California.
Against a backdrop
of grazing thoroughbreds, this race-horse breeding farm proved to be a fitting
venue to show off the 2009 enhancements to this well-bred champion ATV.
Since its inception in 2002, the QuadSport Z400 has had an impressive
racing heritage as well as being a popular and versatile all-around sport ATV.
The design concept for the 2009 QuadSport Z400 was "Engineered for Fun" and with
the additional performance improvements and cutting-edge QuadRacer R450-styling,
the Z400 certainly lives up to its objective.
"The 2003 LT-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 R-450 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 Z-400 the perfect all-around sand, trail and
track ATV.
No other ATV offers the versatility of the QuadSport Z-400.
"Engineered for Fun", the QuadSport Z-400 offers a combination of
trail-riding fun and high-performance attitude that keep it a breed apart in
performance, styling and comfort.
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