XR400 - Any changes thru the years since the 1996 intro model??

[XPLRN]

I'm considering adding a XR400 to the stable, I know it will be a blow to my 'XPLRN' XR250's ego to have a BIG brother around. I am just curious as to whether there was any specific years that are considered better or more desirable than others since the start of production in 1996!???

Hopefully some of the XR400 enthusiasts out there can share what they have learned over the years! :thumb: :worship:

Happy 'XPLRN' :thumb: :thumb:

 

[ob1quixote]

As I recall, in '98 they changed the jetting {which you will do again for better performance!}, and the changed the swingarm bearings to a beefier type. All the other changes were plastic color and decals!

I am sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong, or add to the list of changes, and I'm cool with that!

Robert

 

[Highbeam]

There was also a shaft that was thickened inside the engine around the 99 model. Either the countershaft or the counterbalancer shaft or one of the others inside. Not positive. Great bikes.

 

[James]

The 96 and 97 had the removeable baffle in the exhaust and later years didn't. The sparkarrestor portion of the baffle can be installed in the newer mufflers for the same effect.

I also think the spring rates in the suspension were tweaked in 98.

I would recommend getting a 98 or newer and you should be fine. Like Robert said, they are all the same from that point on.

 

[XPLRN]

Thanks 'ob1quixote' , 'Highbeam' and 'James' for your responses. I've seen some good deals on E-bay for the 1996-1997 XR400's but unfortunately they were back on the east coast or numerous states away.

From the various inputs it sounds like the 1998 or 1999 year would be preferred. I am curious 'Highbeam' as to what shaft that was internally that got enlarged and exactly what year that was!??

Thanks again guys and if anyone else has additional information they can add to this subject I'm sure that everyone would like to learn more about the XR400!

Have a enjoyable weekend! :)

Happy 'XPLRN' :thumb: :thumb: