Kawasaki has always been known for its Z-series motorcycles, which combine aggressive streetfighter styling with refined Japanese engineering. The Kawasaki Z400 is an entry-level naked bike in this lineup, offering a perfect balance of power, handling, and comfort for Indian riders. It is essentially a naked version of the Ninja 400, tuned for everyday riding with sporty performance.
Streetfighter Design with Kawasaki DNA
The Z400 follows Kawasaki’s signature Sugomi design language that makes it look aggressive and modern. The muscular fuel tank, sharp tank extensions, minimal fairing, and low-slung LED headlight give it a bold streetfighter appeal.
Its upright riding position and comfortable ergonomics make it more practical than fully-faired sports bikes. The overall stance is compact, lightweight, and rider-friendly.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the Kawasaki Z400 lies a 399cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine. It produces around 47 hp at 10,000 rpm and 38 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox.
The bike offers smooth acceleration, strong mid-range punch, and a top speed of around 160–170 km/h. Its assist & slipper clutch ensures effortless gear shifts and prevents wheel lock during aggressive downshifts.
Features and Equipment
Kawasaki has equipped the Z400 with all the essential modern features riders expect in this category:
- Full-LED lighting system
- Digital instrument console
- Dual-channel ABS
- Assist & slipper clutch
- Telescopic forks at the front and mono-shock at the rear
While it may not be overloaded with electronics, it delivers the right mix of performance and practicality.
Ride Quality and Handling
Weighing just 167 kg, the Kawasaki Z400 feels extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver in city traffic. The chassis is designed for sharp handling, making it fun to ride in corners.
The suspension setup offers a good balance of comfort and sportiness, while the braking system with 310mm front disc and 220mm rear disc with ABS provides excellent stopping power.
Mileage and Tank Capacity
The Kawasaki Z400 delivers a mileage of around 25–28 km/l, which is impressive for a twin-cylinder motorcycle in this segment. With a 14-litre fuel tank, riders can expect a comfortable riding range for both city commutes and weekend trips.
Price and Rivals in India
The Kawasaki Z400 is expected to be priced around ₹4.25 – ₹4.50 lakh (ex-showroom, India). Its closest rivals include:
- KTM Duke 390
- Honda CB500F (higher capacity)
- Royal Enfield Interceptor 650 (different category but similar price)
- Benelli Leoncino 500
Among these, the Z400 stands out for its refined parallel-twin engine and lightweight dynamics.
Verdict: Why Choose the Kawasaki Z400?
The Kawasaki Z400 is an excellent option for riders who want to step up from a 300cc motorcycle to a more powerful, refined, and premium naked bike. Its parallel-twin engine, lightweight handling, and aggressive styling make it an ideal motorcycle for daily rides as well as spirited weekend rides.