The Suzuki Z90 is quite possibly the coolest little entry-level machine around. Today’s QuadSport Z90 replaced the longstanding two-stroke QuadSport LT-80 a few years ago with a durable 90cc four-stroke motor and killer big-bike styling. The Z90 look screams race quad, while the Daddy and Me machine is really designed to make learning a fun and stress-free experience. We took the electric-start, quiet, and reliable Z90 to our favorite desert test track and turned our newest little test rider Hayden loose on it.
Hayden had very little experience on an ATV but is quite the bruiser. Some quick instruction on the controls and starting procedure from Dad was all it took before he was off and running. The Z90 has a very low seat height at 25.6 inches, and it is approachable and controllable for even very small children. Starting the machine is pretty easy with an electric start, but you do have to fully set the parking brake before it will start. Should Junior happen to leave the key on, the Z is also equipped with a back-up pull starter. Hayden’s dad was able to use the Z90’s simple screw-type throttle limiter to restrict power delivery for the first hour or so. The smooth-running CVT transmission provides brainless operation so the rider can focus on learning the proper fundamentals of riding instead of worrying about shifting. Our “wild child” test rider was on the track for just less than an hour before asking us to remove the screw. We compromised with partial removal, and that bought us another three short laps.
The compact 90cc, four-stroke, air-cooled engine is designed for durability and low maintenance. The Z90 features a Suzuki Composite Electrochemical Material (SCEM) cylinder. This “chrome bore” technology is brought right from Suzuki’s high-performance GSX-R line of sportbikes, providing durability, weight reduction, and superior heat transfer. This ultra-reliable and efficient motor—combined with a 1.6-gallon fuel tank—will literally keep your kid spinning laps until the sun goes down. With our throttle screw completely removed, the Z90’s single A-arm front and swingarm rear suspension provided more than enough travel to comfortably pound out lap after lap. The oil-damped, coil-spring shocks also proved more than sufficient for the Z90’s target market. As Hayden continued to turn laps, we could literally watch his confidence grow with each passing lap. At about two hours in, he had himself figured for an expert and was ready to begin hitting the jumps like the big boys. The Z90 suspension did a stellar job soaking up every sort of landing he could throw at it. Nose down, nose up, sideways—it didn’t really matter as long as it was kept within reason. The little QuadSport would soak up about anything without getting too out of control. The modern styling features full floorboards and the big-quad look. The Z90 even has the telltale trademark Suzuki T-shaped seat for smoother weight transition—just like its big brother QuadSport Z400. Our test rider came to appreciate the full-coverage floorboards quickly as they saved his ankles a few times.
Starting with the strong, high-rigidity steel frame, the QuadSport Z90 is designed to last through the generations. The Z90’s predecessor, the QuadSport LT-80, was replaced years ago, but you can still find them running strong today. It’s not uncommon to see multiples of them in a single camp, and, with a little hop-up work, they have no problem out in the bigger dunes. With the Z90’s quality construction and top-grade materials, it should prove no different and will undoubtedly be here to stay. We wouldn’t be surprised to see QuadSport Z90s teaching generation upon generation of our youth the fundamentals of ATVing just like its two-stroke cousin.
