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Neither too sharp nor too mellow, the Ninja 400 has a splendid balance
Verdict – There is no denying the fact that the Ninja 400 is a great bike. In essence, the Ninja 400’s improved hardware makes it better in almost every aspect when compared to the Ninja 300, be it performance, ride, handling, braking, design and even comfort. However, because of the crazy price on the Ninja 400, this Kawasaki makes little sense, one is better off paying a little more and getting the Z650 instead. Although anyone with a liking for a sport bike, the Ninja 400 is a great choice in the entry-level segment, as long as you don’t look at the price.
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/32678300567/[/flickr]
It is a very appealing motorcycle when the price factor is kept aside
What’s Cool
* Feedback from the brakes is brilliant
* Riding dynamics are very solid, it feels surefooted
* The motor revs freely while it also sounds pretty sweet
What’s Not So Cool
* It is a sports-tourer but not suitable for pillion duties
* Grip from the tyres isn’t the best, they need to be warmed up
* Priced at a premium, it almost costs as much as a middle-weight street-fighter
[flickr size=”center” float=”medium”]http://www.flickr.com/photos/motorbeam/32678305687/[/flickr]
Two entry-level motorcycles packing oodles of fun
Kawasaki Ninja 400 Specifications
* Engine: 399cc, Liquid-Cooled, Parallel-Twin
* Power: 49 BHP @ 10,000 RPM
* Torque: 38 Nm @ 8000 RPM
* Transmission: 6-Speed
* Fuel Type: Petrol
* Fuel Consumption: 25 km/l
* Frame: Steel Trellis Frame
* Tyres: 110/70/17 (Front), 150/60/17 (Rear), Dunlop
* Suspension: 41 mm Telescopic Forks (Front), Gas Charged Mono Shock (Rear)
* Brakes: 310 mm Discs (Front), 220 mm Disc (Rear), Switchable ABS
Kawasaki Ninja 400 Dimensions
* Wheelbase: 1370 mm
* Seat Height: 785 mm
* Fuel Tank Capacity: 14-litres
* Kerb weight: 173 kgs
Testers’ Note:
“The ergonomics of the Kawasaki Ninja 400 are very likeable but pillion duties aren’t the best. The design language has been picked from newer ZX styling and the bike looks very attractive in person. It has the presence of a superbike while still being quite compact. The tyres don’t offer the best grip but once warmed up, the linear power delivery from the parallel-twin motor is very enjoyable.” – Dhanil Vira, Bike Editor, MotorBeam.
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