Kawasaki has always been applauded for making insane and well-rounded motorcycles and is known for its reliability and value for money character. Entry-level motorcycles have been a very important part of every motorcyclist's life to help carve them for what more powerful machines ahead. And one of the most well-revered entry-level bunch of motorcycles has come from Kawasaki with the likes of Ninja 250 and Ninja 300, which provide a safe yet thrilling experience for first-time riders to enjoy on the saddle. Currently, Kawasaki continues this feat with the Ninja 400 that came in as a replacement for the Ninja 300 in 2018.
Various factors make the Kawasaki Ninja 400 a good entry-level motorcycle. But the most important of them is tractable performance and composed dynamics. An easily tamable bike makes for the better choice when it comes to new riders, and the Ninja 400 is tamed to an extent that new riders will feel at ease without much struggle. A butter-smooth engine and precise gearing, comfortable rider's triangle, and predictable dynamics make the Ninja 400 one of the best entry-level bikes out there. It sure has the company of Yamaha R3 and KTM RC390 which come in as entry-level offerings but there is something about the "green" that puts it apart.
Kawasaki Ninja 400 took the baton from the Ninja 300 in 2018 and has thereafter been one of the prime choices among entry-level motorcycles. Here's why the Ninja 400 is such a great pick for new riders.
Beginner-Friendly Performance And Dynamics
Kawasaki Ninja 400 is powered by a 24.34 cu. in. (399 cc.) liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine which has been created from the ground up. It is a new engine from Kawasaki after a long period, since the Ninja 250. The Ninja 300 essentially had a longer stroke from its predecessor. But the Ninja 400 changes with an all-new engine but still sticks the root formula of making it a very beginner-friendly machine.
The 2020 Ninja 400 produces 45 hp at 10,000 rpm and 28 lb-ft at 8,000 rpm which is ample from an entry-level offering. It is coupled to a 6-Speed gearbox that is pretty swift between the gears. This powerhouse is strapped in a steel trellis frame that dilutes vibrations even at higher rev-bands. The rider’s triangle is well preserved as well which makes it a comfortable machine.
Ninja 400 Has A Top Speed Of 100 MPH
This entry-level Kawasaki is not as adrenaline-pumping as its elders, but it makes up in practicality and ease of rideability. The Ninja 400 has a top speed of a whisker over 100 MPH and can do 0-60 mph in 4.14 seconds. Its top speed comes up in about 12 seconds. Most of its power and torque are concentrated at the top end and thus you will need to work your way for the top speed run.
But the Ninja 400 manages to hold its ground even while red-lining, and you can scream your way around the race track all day long without breaking a sweat. In-gear acceleration is nominal and so highway rides are pretty comfortable as well. So, this makes this entry-level Kawasaki a pretty competent all-rounder and manages to be sensible without dulling down on the thrill factor.
Kawasaki Has Made Quite The Looker With The Ninja 400
Nothing speaks “Kawasaki” more loudly than its iconic green shade. The design language has evolved notably over the past entry-level offerings from Kawasaki, but the root formula of looking and going sharp remains the same. The most notable design element is its decal-laden cowling, which makes this small motorcycle look larger.
The larger bodywork and wind deflector do a good job of providing wind protection which comes in handy during highway rides. The overall design is also made to dissipate heat away from the rider, thus being comfortable even after long sessions. The bike tapers towards the rear end, but that doesn't hamper its comfortable seating. The low seating point not only gives it an aggressive stance but also makes it easier for riders to put their legs on the ground.
Value-For-Money And Reliable Machine
Reliability has been a strong point for Kawasaki and is one of the key attributes that put this Japanese offering apart from the Italians and Europeans. Kawasaki has made a name for itself in providing cheap thrills, and it continues to do so with the Ninja 400. It returns an average fuel economy of 72 mpg and its warranty period is for 2 years. Servicing costs are impressively low as well, with the first service at 600 miles costing you $160.
The next one comes in at 7,500 miles and will cost you $450. The first major service doesn't come in as far as 15,200 miles and will cost you just $950. That's a long way before you do your valve-check and the Ninja 400 is a stubborn fellow with no reliability issues to ponder over. The technology on offer is wholesome as well, as this $5,000 machine comes with a negative LCD instrument cluster, assist and slipper clutch, economical riding indicator, and ABS. Quite a handful, for the price point.
Pricing And Rivals
Kawasaki Ninja 400 is priced aggressively with the Non-ABS model coming in at $5.000- $5,200 and the ABS model coming in at $5,300- $5,500. Apart from the standard paint schemes, it also gets a Lime Green/ Ebony KRT Edition from the Kawasaki Racing Team for an additional $200.
The $5,000 Yamaha R3 is its closest rival because of the aggressive pricing that Kawasaki has gone for. Its balanced layout of aggression and practicality puts it much ahead of the generic bunch. It creeps up to the Honda CBR500R as well which is priced from $6,700 and pumps out 49.6 hp and 31.7 lb-ft.
All of these factors bundled into a much accessible package makes the Kawasaki Ninja 400 fit in perfectly as a better entry-level motorcycle and continues to be pleasurable for aspiring motorcyclists.
Sources: Kawasaki.com, Cycleworld.com, Motorcyclenews.com, Ultimatemotorcycling.com, Valleycyclecenter.com, Gorollick.com