Honda XR400

This is the XR400's greatest strength; you know exactly what you're getting and there is plenty of stuff available to turn this bike into whatever you want it to be. On that score, Honda now provides information which outlines modifications that can be made to lift the bike up from standard performance trim. The information is pretty much spot-on and it makes a big difference to the motor.

One of the performance suggestions is to modify the baffle, which does make the exhaust note quite loud - but there are other options which might be preferable these days. I've tried one of Ballard's performance baffles in the past and they're a more 'environmentally friendly' option. The latter is an insert which replaces the original unit (three bolts) and it retails for under $100.

When it came time for getting to know the XR400 better, I purposely avoided expert opinions on this bike; instead, I concentrated on using the bike for day-to-day duties - looking to the people who've really made this bike what it is. These people are your 'average' trail-riders - the people who enjoy the experience of trail-riding and club racing with little desire of being a world champion or a crusty demon.

I knew exactly what they were going to say when I asked: "What do you think of the XR400?" They all said basically the same thing: "It's so easy and nice to ride." Yep it sure is. It's the most forgiving bike in this bunch - it gives you a second chance when you've really stuffed-up.

In a direct comparison with the other machines, the stock XR feels big and soft after you've ridden the KTM or the Husaberg with their firm suspension and slim dimensions. And it doesn't have that burst of power that make the WR and DR-Z such exciting bikes to ride. That's ignoring the potential of the XR, but it's a fair comment when the XR is in standard trim.

However, the XR400 will continue to be a popular and user-friendly bike that we all know. It's the bike that does not penalise you for sitting down when you should be standing. The XR can easily find traction and drive where the other bikes are spinning the rear wheel. It's also a low-maintenance bike that's in a better position to resist neglect when compared to the rest of this bunch.

Long live the XR400! It's not the latest or the most stylish, whiz-bang thing, but it's the cheapest of the bunch ($8460) and you know exactly what you get for your hard earned dollars.