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Kawasaki Ninja 400 Racing Team Edition (KRT) Ride Review

Last Update: 25 October 2023

Kawasaki Ninja 400 Ride Review - MOTORESS
Kawasaki Ninja 400 Ride Review – Vicki Gray

It’s truly remarkable how the Kawasaki Ninja 400 KRT (Kawasaki Racing Team) edition manages to defy its 400cc displacement. From its appearance to the way it handles on the road, it exudes the aura of a much larger sport bike. I must admit, I’m in awe of Kawasaki’s engineering prowess in achieving this. As you may be aware, they made the bold move to discontinue the beloved Ninja 300 in favour of the Ninja 400. The result is a motorcycle that not only lives up to the Ninja legacy but also delivers a thrilling riding experience that surpasses any other 400cc bike I’ve encountered.

This Ninja 400 has undergone a comprehensive transformation, from front to back and ground-up. Kawasaki’s dedication to perfection is evident in every aspect of this bike, and the best part is that they managed to achieve all these enhancements without a corresponding increase in its price!

Introducing The New Assist & Slipper Clutch

The latest version brings forth an exceptionally lightweight and compact clutch system, featuring less rigid operating plates, which collectively result in a 20% reduction in the required effort to pull the lever. This lighter touch at the lever is just the beginning – the revamped clutch also boasts a wider engagement range, offering heightened precision and control during gear shifts. This combination of features not only benefits the daily commuter by reducing strain during stop-and-go traffic but also simplifies the process of finding neutral. It’s a welcome addition for riders of all kinds, enhancing both comfort and manoeuvrability.

Compact, Lightweight, Stable and Agile

The new edition is not just lighter but also boasts greater rigidity and improved handling characteristics. Starting from a clean slate when designing the engine allowed for an optimised layout, focusing on minimising size, weight, and enhancing efficiency. Extensive weight reduction measures were undertaken to keep the overall weight to a minimum.

Furthermore, the wheelbase has been shortened by 35.6mm, which contributes to quicker and more responsive steering. On the other hand, the swingarm has been lengthened by 10mm, aimed at enhancing rear-wheel traction and optimising suspension performance. The result is a motorcycle that strikes an ideal balance between being compact, lightweight, stable, and highly manoeuvrable.

The Ninja 400 weighs in at 164 kg and with its slim well-thought-out design offers a perfect blend of control and riding ease. This combination of attributes makes it an appealing and straightforward choice for riders of all levels, from beginners to those with ample experience.

Kawasaki Ninja 400 Ride Review - MOTORESS
Kawasaki Ninja 400

New Radiator Fan Cover

The addition of a radiator fan cover serves to redirect engine heat away from the rider, a feature especially appreciated during scorching summer days when navigating city traffic. This design innovation ensures that hot air is efficiently channelled to the sides through perforations in the fairing, keeping the rider more comfortable and cool during the ride.

Rigid Front Fork

Equipped with a sturdy ø41mm telescopic fork, provides superior suspension performance. The front wheel maintains a secure and planted feel, allowing for effortless directional changes, even when the bike is fairly upright.

Kawasaki Ninja 400 Ride Review - MOTORESS
I found my sit position gave me an easy reach to the ground.

Ergonomics

With regard to fit the Ninja 400, its higher handlebar and a more forward foot peg position allowed me to control the bike while also offering comfort. The clip-on handlebars offer sporty, slightly down positioning. And clip-ons are great on a bike as they can be adjusted to your reach.

I found my sit position gave me an easy reach to the ground. The seat is slim and just 785 mm. Actually 30 mm narrower than the 300 Ninja. Additionally, it narrows at the base of 14 litre fuel tank –  making it even easier to grip the tank for comfort and control. Its A 90 mm low-rebound urethane seat cushion made for a solid comfy ride. Though I did find myself sliding forward during stops, I may need a little adjustment to the foot peg set up.

The foot pegs are slightly forward, contributing to a comfortable riding position, and are out-of-the-way when you put your feet down.

Expressway Riding

It was a windy and gusty day when I took the Ninja 400 for a ride half-expecting some vibration and susceptibility to the gusty winds, especially in sixth gear.  The bike’s larger-volume bodywork does offer great wind protection, significantly enhancing the overall riding comfort.  The roll-on power was there when I needed it, the bike responded with a smooth surge of power, making merging onto the express-way a breeze – both effortless and safe.  Even while cruising at highway speeds in sixth gear, the bike doesn’t reveal all its secrets. The high-rev sound might give the impression that you’ve reached the limits of its power, but don’t be fooled; there’s plenty more performance waiting to be unleashed.

Superb Stopping Power

The Ninja 400 actually has the largest brake disc size in this class. Its semi-floating front disc offers sure stopping power.  A rigid new front brake master cylinder helps eliminate ineffective (idle) stroke, contributing to controllability, while carefully selected brake hose dimensions and material contribute to brake touch.

Summary

The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is one fabulous ride and is incredibly enjoyable to handle.  It manages to exude the charm of a larger, more powerful motorcycle, even though it’s labelled as a 400cc.  Contrary to the misconception that smaller cc bikes are merely stepping stones, the Ninja 400 defies this notion. It possesses the sporting prowess to keep riders engaged for years, proving that you don’t outgrow the thrill it offers. Disregard the advice of self-proclaimed “experts” and internet forums that insist on a 600cc bike for the title of a “real rider” or suggest that smaller bikes are destined to become mundane.

Smaller cc motorcycles like the Kawasaki Ninja 400 come with significant advantages, including lower insurance costs, improved fuel efficiency, and often superior cornering capabilities. With its stellar performance and an affordability factor, the Ninja 400 offers the best of both worlds, making it an appealing choice for riders seeking both excitement and practicality.

It’s a pleasure to ride in various scenarios, be it navigating through traffic, cruising on the expressway  or tackling winding roads. In all these situations, it maintains an impressive level of stability, offering a confident and composed riding experience.

The Dunlop Sportmax tires fitted on the Ninja provide outstanding grip, ensuring you have excellent control even during assertive riding manoeuvres. The suspension, too, is up to the task, delivering the necessary support for aggressive riding demands. And let’s not forget to mention the exhilarating power and the captivating sound produced by the high-revving engine. It’s worth emphasising how exciting it truly is!

And hey, Ana Carrasco achieved a historic World Championship win riding the very same model, making her the first woman in motorsport history to claim such a prestigious title. This achievement underscores that the Kawasaki Ninja 400 truly embodies excellence and sets a standard that’s second to none!
So, the Kawasaki Ninja 400 is – all that!

Kawasaki Ninja 400 Ride Review - MOTORESS
the Kawasaki Ninja 400 is – all that!

Additional Highlights and Favourite Features:

Twin LED Headlamps: The Ninja 400 features twin LED headlamps that emit a powerful, clear white light. This not only enhances your visibility of the road but also ensures that you are easily noticed by other vehicles, contributing to safer rides.

Under-Seat Storage: The under-seat storage compartment offers a two-level design, optimising the utilisation of space. It’s generously sized, providing ample room to stow items like a U-lock securely.

Front Seat Accessibility: The front seat can be effortlessly removed by simply pulling a cable situated under the rear seat. This quick access to the battery simplifies maintenance and ensures convenience when needed.

Kawasaki Genuine Accessories: The range of genuine Kawasaki accessories includes options like a large wind-shield (available in clear or smoke), a DC outlet for electronic devices, an ERGO-FIT high seat (+30 mm) for added comfort, a tank bag, tank pad, radiator screen, frame sliders, wheel rim tape, pillion seat cover, helmet lock, and a U-lock, allowing riders to personalise and enhance their Ninja 400 to suit their preferences.

Convenient Hooks: Thoughtful hooks are integrated into the heel guards of the passenger foot pegs and beneath the tail cowl. These hooks provide a practical solution for securing luggage with bungee cords or nets, making it easier to transport your gear securely while on the go.

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3 comments

Balbinder Kaur 6 November 2020 at 07:47

Hello Vicki,
As past, I love motorbike lots. I ride Honda 125cc n Kawasaki 650cc. After, this stopped ride with personal reasons. I would live come back motorbike again… I always want find right one cos I have short legs… I love Kawasaki lots….

Reply
Frank Toland Jr 14 March 2020 at 07:55

I was hit on my 600 in 2004 by a illegal turning mobility bus and I was messed up reeeeal bad and still have life long scars. I wanna 650 but I’m gonna do it da right way start smaller. I had no idea Kawasaki made a 400 to me it’s a starter bike – but I figure I’m restarting so why not go 400.

Reply
Paul 7 December 2019 at 18:42

Awesome post, thanks you so much for sharing.

Reply

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