A Arms for 400EX: Elevating Your Ride to New Heights
Introduction: The Heart and Soul of the Honda 400EX
If you’re an ATV enthusiast, the Honda TRX 400EX likely holds a special place in your heart. With a reputation for reliability, agility, and sheer thrill, this machine has taken countless riders on adventures through rugged terrain, mud puddles, and sandy trails. However, every seasoned rider knows that with time and experience comes the desire for performance upgrades. Among the various modifications one can undertake, replacing the stock A-arms stands out as a game-changer that can dramatically transform your riding experience. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of A-arms for the Honda 400EX, celebrating the process of upgrading, the benefits of enhanced suspension, and the ways it can elevate your ride to new heights.
Understanding A-Arms: What They Are and Their Role in Your ATV
Before we get into the specifics of upgrading your A-arms, let’s take a moment to understand their significance. A-arms, or control arms, are integral components of your ATV’s suspension system. They connect the wheels to the chassis, allowing for motion and articulation. By controlling the wheel’s vertical and lateral movement during riding, they play a crucial role in how well your ATV handles rough terrains.
The stock A-arms on the 400EX are designed for a balance between performance and cost, providing adequate handling for average riding conditions. However, if you’re serious about tackling challenging trails, racing, or simply seeking a more spirited ride, aftermarket A-arms can unlock a world of improved performance.
The Excitement of Upgrading: Reasons to Consider Aftermarket A-Arms
1. Enhanced Suspension Performance
One of the most thrilling aspects of upgrading your A-arms is the immediate enhancement in suspension performance. Aftermarket A-arms are crafted for stability and better handling. They often feature a wider stance, which increases your ATV’s track width and improves cornering capabilities. With better suspension performance, you’ll enjoy more confidence in your riding, allowing you to tackle obstacles with ease.
2. Improved Ground Clearance
Many aftermarket A-arms also provide additional ground clearance. This is a game-changer when navigating rocky trails or deep mud. Higher ground clearance means less chance of your undercarriage getting stuck or damaged, allowing you to explore those off-the-beaten-path trails with confidence.
3. Increased Durability and Strength
The 400EX’s stock A-arms are designed to handle typical riding conditions. However, if you are an aggressive rider who frequently lands jumps or tackles rough terrain, investing in heavier-duty aftermarket A-arms is prudent. Constructed from high-strength materials, these A-arms can withstand extreme stresses, prolonging the life of your suspension system and ensuring your ATV is ready for anything.
4. Customization Options
Personalization is a key aspect of ATV ownership. Aftermarket A-arms offer various design and color options, allowing you to create a custom look for your ride. Whether you prefer a sleek black finish or a vibrant color that stands out on the trails, there’s something for everyone.
5. Better Alignment and Adjustability
Many aftermarket A-arms come with adjustable features that allow you to fine-tune your ATV’s suspension. This can include pivot points to adjust camber, toe, and ride height. With the ability to customize the alignment, you can tailor your 400EX’s handling characteristics to suit your riding style and the type of terrain you frequent.
Spotlight on Popular Aftermarket A-Arms for the 400EX
With excellent reasons behind the decision to upgrade, let’s look at some of the most popular aftermarket A-arms that can take your 400EX to the next level:
1. Lonestar Racing A-arms
Lonestar Racing is a leader in the ATV performance industry, and their A-arms for the 400EX are no exception. Known for their strength and durability, these A-arms are designed for both casual riders and serious racers. They offer increased width for stability while maintaining a lightweight design for sharp handling.
2. Roll Design A-arms
Roll Design A-arms are famous for their adjustable settings, allowing you to customize your suspension geometry. With exceptional construction quality and excellent performance on rugged terrain, they are a top-tier choice for those looking to maximize their ATV’s capabilities.
3. Elka Suspension A-arms
Elka is known for its high-end suspension components, and their A-arms are crafted to provide a premium riding experience. With distinct design and superior adjustability, the Elka A-arms work seamlessly with other Elka suspension products for an unparalleled ride.
4. Fly Racing A-arms
For riders who want quality without breaking the bank, Fly Racing’s A-arms provide an affordable yet reliable option. These are great for weekend warriors looking to improve their ATV’s capabilities without a hefty investment.
Installation: Making Your Upgrade Dreams a Reality
Upgrading your A-arms can feel like an intimidating task, but the process can be a rewarding DIY project that connects you further with your ATV. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you navigate the installation process:
Tools You’ll Need:
Socket set
Wrenches
Torque wrench
Screwdrivers
Pliers
A race jack or jack stands
A friend (optional, but helpful!)
Step-by-Step Installation:
1. Preparation: Safety First!
Begin by ensuring your 400EX is on a stable surface. Use a race jack to lift the front end off the ground and secure it with jack stands. Gather all necessary tools and prepare your work area.
2. Remove the Stock A-arms
Start by removing the front wheels to gain access to the A-arms. Disconnect the tie rod ends, brake lines, and any other components that could hinder the removal process. Use your socket set to remove the bolts connecting the stock A-arms to the frame and the spindles, then take out the stock A-arms from both sides.
3. Install the New A-arms
Align the aftermarket A-arms with the mounting points on the chassis and spindles. Start by loosely securing them with the provided bolts—don’t tighten everything just yet. This will give you some leeway if adjustments are necessary.
4. Reattach Components
Reconnect the tie rods, brake lines, and any other components you removed. Ensure everything lines up properly and double-check the orientation of each component.
5. Tightening and Adjustments
Now it’s time to tighten those bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications using your torque wrench. This ensures that everything is secure and reliable. If your new A-arms are adjustable, take this opportunity to customize the settings to your preferred handling characteristics.
6. Test Ride!
Once everything’s reassembled, it’s time for the moment you’ve been waiting for: a test ride! Take your newly upgraded Honda 400EX for a spin and relish the enhanced handling and performance.
Celebrating Your New Ride Experience
After the installation, there’s an excitement in the air, a buzz that comes from knowing you’ve taken your ATV to new heights. The first ride post-upgrade is always something special—catching air off jumps, smoothly carving through corners, and confidently conquering the trail ahead create memories you’ll cherish.
As you navigate through the trails, the improved steering response and suspension action will remind you why you embarked on this upgrade journey. You’re not just riding; you’re experiencing your 400EX in an entirely new way.
Conclusion: Embrace the Adventure Ahead
Upgrading the A-arms of your Honda 400EX is much more than just a technical enhancement; it is an exciting adventure that immerses you deeper into the world of ATV riding. The thrill of conquering rugged trails, participating in races, or simply enjoying leisurely rides in nature is invigorated with improved performance, comfort, and control.
So, whether you’re a newcomer eager to personalize your ride or a seasoned rider aiming for top-notch performance, investing in new A-arms for your 400EX is a decision worth celebrating. With your upgraded suspension, you’ll not only stand apart from the crowd but also revel in the unparalleled joy that comes with Honda’s legendary ATV spirit.
Embrace the ride that lies ahead—your 400EX is ready to take you there! Happy riding!