Kawasaki’s ninja zx4r vs 400: the unbiased guide to choosing the perfect ninja
What To Know
- The ZX4R is a better choice for riders who want the most performance possible, while the Ninja 400 is a better choice for riders who want a more comfortable and affordable bike.
- The ZX4R has a few more features than the Ninja 400, including a traction control system and a quickshifter.
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX4R and Ninja 400 are two of the most popular middleweight sportbikes on the market. Both bikes offer a great combination of performance, handling, and comfort, but there are some key differences between them. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at each bike and compare their specs, features, and performance.
Specs
| Feature | Ninja ZX4R | Ninja 400 |
| — | — | — |
| Engine | 400cc liquid-cooled inline-four | 399cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin |
| Power | 59 hp @ 10,000 rpm | 48 hp @ 10,000 rpm |
| Torque | 29 lb-ft @ 8,000 rpm | 28 lb-ft @ 8,000 rpm |
| Weight | 377 lbs | 366 lbs |
| Seat height | 31.5 inches | 30.9 inches |
| Fuel capacity | 4.5 gallons | 4.1 gallons |
Features
The Ninja ZX4R and Ninja 400 share many of the same features, including:
- A trellis frame
- A single-sided swingarm
- A digital instrument cluster
- LED headlights
- ABS brakes
However, there are some key differences between the two bikes. The Ninja ZX4R has a more aggressive riding position, with higher handlebars and a lower seat. It also has a higher-spec suspension and brakes. The Ninja 400, on the other hand, is more comfortable and easier to ride, with a more upright riding position and a softer suspension.
Performance
On the track, the Ninja ZX4R is the clear winner. It has more power and torque, and its higher-spec suspension and brakes give it a better handling. The Ninja 400 is no slouch, but it’s not as fast or as agile as the ZX4R.
On the street, the Ninja 400 is the better choice for most riders. It’s more comfortable, easier to ride, and more fuel-efficient than the ZX4R. The ZX4R is a better choice for track days or for riders who want the most performance possible.
Price
The Ninja ZX4R has an MSRP of $9,999, while the Ninja 400 has an MSRP of $4,999. This makes the Ninja 400 a much more affordable option for riders on a budget.
Which Bike Is Right for You?
The Ninja ZX4R and Ninja 400 are both great bikes, but they’re designed for different riders. The ZX4R is a better choice for riders who want the most performance possible, while the Ninja 400 is a better choice for riders who want a more comfortable and affordable bike.
Here’s a quick summary of the key differences between the two bikes:
- Engine: The ZX4R has a more powerful engine than the Ninja 400.
- Suspension: The ZX4R has a higher-spec suspension than the Ninja 400.
- Brakes: The ZX4R has better brakes than the Ninja 400.
- Riding position: The ZX4R has a more aggressive riding position than the Ninja 400.
- Price: The ZX4R is more expensive than the Ninja 400.
If you’re still not sure which bike is right for you, I recommend visiting your local Kawasaki dealer and taking both bikes for a test ride. That’s the best way to see which bike is the best fit for your needs.
Beyond the Basics
In addition to the key differences outlined above, there are a few other things to consider when choosing between the Ninja ZX4R and Ninja 400.
- Styling: The ZX4R has a more aggressive and sporty look than the Ninja 400.
- Technology: The ZX4R has a few more features than the Ninja 400, including a traction control system and a quickshifter.
- Availability: The ZX4R is not as widely available as the Ninja 400.
Final Thoughts
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX4R and Ninja 400 are both great bikes, but they’re designed for different riders. The ZX4R is a better choice for riders who want the most performance possible, while the Ninja 400 is a better choice for riders who want a more comfortable and affordable bike.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to visit your local Kawasaki dealer and take both bikes for a test ride. That’s the best way to see which bike is the best fit for your needs.
Questions You May Have
1. What is the difference between the Ninja ZX4R and Ninja 400?
The Ninja ZX4R has a more powerful engine, higher-spec suspension, and better brakes than the Ninja 400. The ZX4R also has a more aggressive riding position and is more expensive than the Ninja 400.
2. Which bike is better for track days?
The Ninja ZX4R is a better choice for track days because it has more power and better handling than the Ninja 400.
3. Which bike is better for commuting?
The Ninja 400 is a better choice for commuting because it is more comfortable and fuel-efficient than the ZX4R.
4. Which bike is more affordable?
The Ninja 400 is more affordable than the ZX4R.
5. Which bike is more widely available?
The Ninja 400 is more widely available than the ZX4R.