Taming the Tm400
TAMING THE TM400
HAVING READ the previous road test, you really shouldn't be contemplating the purchase of a Suzuki TM400, if at the same time you are contemplating motocrossing one. At least not in its stock form. But let’s say that you already own a TM or are going to buy one for use as a play bike, and then one day the motocross bug bites. What to do? Do you sell the old evil handling but inexpensively-trusty and buy some highly-priced European Maiqvarntaco? Or, with a little money, do you make your TM400 into a competitive trophy hoarder?
While it would be difficult to make the Suzuki into as good-handling a bike as most European motocrossers, you can come darn close and save some bucks in the process. We mentioned that different tires would be a definite asset. Metzelers, Trelleborgs, or Cheng-Shins are good choices. In fact, just about any good knobby would be an improvement over the standard items. When purchasing your rear tire, though, be sure to get a 4.50. The Suzuki can easily pull it.
The engine doesn’t need any modifying. It has more than enough power. The problem is in getting it to the ground. Competition Dynamics has the answer. Bolt-on flywheels to smooth out radical power impulses and make hard braking without killing the engine an easier proposition, are available from this Phoenix, Arizona-based firm.
The wheels come in two, three and four-pound sizes. The three and fourpounders are the most popular for the TM400. The wheels are made of brass to prevent PEI ignition problems and feature aircraft-type fasteners. Installation and removal tool and complete timing instructions are also included.
Also from Competition Dynamics comes a GP swinging arm kit. The kit includes a completed, gussetted swinging arm, plus all brackets and instructions to modify your frame and upper shock mounts. Also available are aluminum-bodied Koni shocks, which have a longer life span than the standard items. Wheel travel with this kit is up more than six inches.
If you want more than just a new swinging arm, then Red Line Engineering has a complete, chrome-plated TM400 frame and swinging arm. The chassis and rear fork are made from 4130 chrome moly and are designed to accept many standard items such as seat, wheels, air filter and suspension.
Of course, there are other modifications that are applicable to the Suzuki. Plastic fenders, fuel tanks, handlebars, sprockets (a good idea since the stock bike is geared very tall), and more.
The Suzuki TM400 is not a good motocrosser, but it can be made into one. And it isn’t all that difficult.
Competition Dynamics
5835 N. 16th St.
Phoenix, Arizona
85016
Red Line Eng.
18265 Parthenia Ave.
Northridge, Calif.
E~I
