Noticed some nice improvements on the 400

[gentlemanjim]

During my disassembly process I noticed that the clutch pushrod is the the long one piece design and the swingarm has caged needle bearings. Seems Yamha figured what we all knew neeeded to be done to the 650's. Unfortunately they never got the memo on wider wheels yet.

 

[drewpy]

wider wheels cost more and slowed handling which would have needed a frame redesign etc. The 400's were aimed at the commuter/new learner market who were cost concious above everything else!

 

[Travis]

The 6 speed tanny is a nice touch that the 650 could use.. Also 180 degree crank for less vibration and the starter isn't an afterthought. Also, the oil filter setup on the 400 seems better too.

 

[gentlemanjim]

And I almost forgot a counter balancer. Yes the filter is a real one too.

I don't get Yamaha's big move to 4 cylinders (except Virago/Vstar) when two works so very well for Harley, Ducati, Moto-Guzzi, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Aprilia, Triumph - who'd I miss?