Kawasaki put the cat among the pidgeons with the new Ninja 400, and now it is joined by a Z400, offering a streetfighter themed nakedbike version with all the performance and extra attitude...
When it comes to the learner segment, there’s some incredible competition, and the addition of the Z400 now offers a smaller capacity alternative to the restricted 600 nakedbikes, while boasting comparable levels of power, if not quite the torque.
As a step up from the outgoing Z300, the Z400 offers an incredible upgrade, which mirrors the transformation that the Ninja 300 undertook when it became the Ninja 400.
Kawasaki’s Z400 offers the performance of the Ninja 400 in a new nakedbike version, massively updating the Z300
As someone who’s happily lived with a Ninja 400 for nine months, I have to say that the big comparison to me is between the two 400s, but check out the tech breakout below for the run down from Z300 to Z400.
A futuristic package which tones down the usual Z-series DNA and has more in common with the Z900 (or Z650) than the Z800 or Z1000, the Z400 runs a compact dual headlight setup in the single unit, with LED headlights, alongside ABS, an assist and slipper clutch and streetfighter themed LCD dash.
Jumping on board you’re greeted by a compact package, with a low seat height at 785mm, as well as a shaved down seat which further minimises that reach to the ground and helps ensure a thin feel between the knees.
The flat handlebars are mounted to a different top triple-clamp with risers compared to the Ninja 400, with ‘bar mounted mirrors, while the overall finish quality really is exceptional for the price-point. The green across the radiator shrouds is also a sticker to match the green bodywork, while it’s a nice deep silver fleck black paint across the rest of the bodywork.
Flat ‘bars offer an upright and relaxed seating position with good control and leverage
Combined with a blacked out engine, the Z400 offers a real streetfighter inspired styling package, and that carries across into the feel of the bike and ride. Fire the 399cc parallel-twin to life and the exhaust certainly isn’t the most impressive, but the clutch is super light and Kawasaki have done an exceptional job with the electrickery in ensuring the Z400 is as difficult to stall for new riders as possible.
This ensures an easy transition onto the power, particularly considering how strong the low to mid-range torque is from this powerplant. You could almost take off from a flat standstill at idle, it’s that well fuelled, so if you’re terrified of the embarrassment of stalling, first off – don’t be, and secondly – consider this machine.
The Z400 offers a great transition onto power for the new rider, with immense low to mid-range torque for a LAMS machine in the 300-400cc range
Leaving the bike in first will however quickly reveal how short that particular gear feels thanks to the final gearing as well, but thanks to all that torque the Z400 will happily roll around in second for essentially everything. In fact knocking it up a gear or two for gentle cruising is never a problem and there’s still good throttle response and power delivery, even if the biggest reward is really taking advantage of that mid-range.
The one area I do notice the 399cc parallel twin gets a little out of shape is on a closing throttle, when it transitions onto engine braking, which can be a little bit harsh, however this can be ridden around by simply being a bit more aggressive on the blip on downshifts, with this mainly occurring when gently rolling off the throttle at cruising speeds.
The 399cc parallel twin is a real gem, offering performance akin to a 600-650cc LAMS machine
While a bit of finesse certainly helps in keeping the Z400 engine smooth, the reward is an exceptionally punchy low to mid-range, which never tapers off but instead gets a little bit flatter right up in the rev range, with the Z400 capable of catapulting you well past the speed limits regardless of where you are.
I’d still firmly state the Z400 is a great beginner option, but there are some less powerful options out there for those who aren’t after maximum performance in the segment, or alternatively just want something a little less intimidating. The Z400 is not a machine you’ll quickly find lacking, at least not if you’re being honest about your skills as a rider, and what’s remotely legal on the roads.
That’s not to say the Z400 is intimidating – it’s all relative I guess – as it exudes that light streetfighter feel, with a great low centre of gravity and easy to handle overall package, while still not looking too tiny. That makes for a forgiving machine to the uninitiated, even if there’s some pretty spectacular performance between your legs. It also combines with the flat ‘bars and general ergonomics to create a neutral, upright package – more-so than the Ninja 400 – that is comfortable in all aspects but the seat (after long periods).
There’s also no doubt the Z400 is a little more everyday-road orientated than the Ninja 400, and while the brakes are the same exceptional units, offering great control and feel, the suspension on the Z400 feels a lot softer through the initial stroke, which comes at the cost of being a little harsher as you run out of travel. For general riding this offers a slightly more comfortable ride, with a little less comfort and compliance when you’re pushing hard as the bike pitches.
Front brake performance on the Z400 is also a real standout with exceptional power, despite being a single disc setup
Still, even over the really rough surfaces, pushing a bit harder over towards the edges of the tyre, the Z400 offers good feedback and stability, in spite of feeling like a super short wheelbase machine, and even with a bit of kick from the rear I was having plenty of fun.
The standard fitment GP-R300 tyres are also a great choice, regardless of the weather – I find myself mentioning this a lot lately – as they are fitted to the sportier beginner options, they are a good all-round option for wet and dry.
Overall handling is also a standout, offering a nimble package for the daily commute, including weaving through traffic, tricky urban conditions and easy U-turns. Filtering would also be an easy chore for those stuck in real grid-lock, with plenty of go to get you away at the front of the lights.
A nimble machine through the twisties, commuting and freeway riding are equally easy
Stability on the freeway is also good and cruising at 110 or 120 is easy and confidence inspiring, and while there’s not the wind protection of a full screen, this particular bike had the Kawasaki accessory screen, while the lack of fairings makes the bike a little less susceptible to cross winds.
The Z400 is also a fun machine to hustle through the twisties or along the good motorcycling roads, with those flat ‘bars offering plenty of leverage for input, while getting aggressive and hanging off the bike a bit is an easy proposition, even for the new rider. The super-light feeling overall package really comes to the fore here, in not only making the Z400 plenty of fun, but also an easy machine to make the most of for new riders, still building those skills.
The Z400 just offers exceptional value, power and style for a LAMS machine
At the end of the day that’s what I find so great about the Z400 – and this is something shared with a few of the other sub 500cc LAMS options – is I don’t feel like I’m riding a learner machine, in fact if anything there’s a bit more freedom as far as being able to have some fun without going crazy.
I could jump onto the Z400, and the bike felt light but not too small, sporty but not cramped, torquey and nimble and was plenty of everyday fun, even as an experienced rider. The seat could be a bit more comfortable, and that slight roughness on a closing throttle can be annoying, but overall the Z400 is an exceptional option, particularly considering it’s offering the kind of performance we’d expect from a $10k 600cc LAMS machine.
The Z400 also cuts an awesome silhouette, with a top box done on styling
Kawasaki Z400 Second Opinion: Jeff Ware
I had so much fun riding the Z400 and to me, that is what streetfighter styled nakeds are all about. Manufacturers generally get bagged for trying too hard to make a stock bike look like a streetfighter and Kawasaki are not claiming the Z400 to be a streetfighter.
But it looks like one and a very cool one at that, so whether they meant to do it or not, Team Green have done a top job with the Z400, it really looks like a streetfightered Ninja 400.
Streetfighter styling from a manufacturer that works.
Kris found the bike big enough, I found it too small for me, with the ‘bars too close and I was wedged in the seating position on that rock hard seat, however, I’m 90kg and 187cm so not the average Z400 sized rider I’d imagine. It is definitely a bike that would suit smaller riders, and I still had a blast on it.
The wide ‘bars, aggressive ergonomics and punchy, low-geared engine makes the Z400 a true hooning machine and for a medium capacity LAMS machine, it really has some serious punch.
2019 Kawasaki Z400
Like the Ninja 400, the bike loves to rev and with the upright riding position the sense of acceleration is really exaggerated so the ride is more thrilling than on the Ninja, however, the outright corner speeds and road carving abilities of the sportsbike sibling can’t be matched with the Z400.
The trade off being a more fun point and shoot bike, easier bike to handle in traffic and carparks and generally zipping around the place. It’s just so easy to ride, perfect for a learner or commuter that want to arrive at work with a grin and get home with a smile…
Good luck keeping your licence on the Z400 if you lack self control like I do!
The brakes are fantastic, the gearbox slick, the controls all smooth and the bike is typical good quality from Kawasaki’s LAMS range. I was impressed by the feel and grip on offer from the OEM tyres and to be honest, the only things I didn’t like about the bike was the hard seat and for me, that super soft suspension that would be OK for a rider in the 55 to 65kg range, possibly 70kg, but beyond that it will be quite soft, unbalancing the bike at times, particularly on the brakes.
At just over six grand, the Z400 is priced right, with the accessories fitted to our press test unit, it looks sharp, plus it is a blast to ride and definitely worth testing if you are in the market for a mid sized nakedbike, whether you are a learner or experienced rider.
2019 Kawasaki Z400 Genuine Mods
It’s worth noting this particular Z400 had a fair few genuine Kawasaki accessories added, starting with the Lower Cowling ($396.43 AUD) which I actually mistook for standard equipment. On the pricey side I reckon this mod still looks amazing and is one I’d fork out for.
Also fitted is the ‘Meter Cover’ ($97.28 AUD – great value) or small front screen which adds a good amount of wind protection, which would be my first purchase. There’s also the colour matched Seat Cowl which does remove your pillion seat, and if it is like the Ninja 400 version, needs a special mounting bracket, so isn’t just interchangeable. At $200.57 the price isn’t bad for a colour matched item, as you can buy cheap eBay specials, but normally need to get them painted – what a hassle!
This Z400 includes a variety of genuine Kawasaki accessories, put to great use, with the screen, bellypan, radiator guard, seat cowl, pickup spools and tank stickers, plus crash protection
Also included was the Frame Slider Set, which looks great and comes in at $337.81 AUD, which is a fair bit, but I always recommend this kind of protection for new riders. Then there was the Kawasaki Radiator Screen ($77.42 AUD), an ideal option on our mixed roads, as a holed radiator will end your fun very quickly, and for this price it’s an easy choice.
Finally there was the Tank Pad, which protects the tank from zip and button damage, while the Knee Pad Set offers easier better grip of the tank when things get sporty.
2019 Kawasaki Z400 LAMS – Candy Cardinal Red / Metallic Flat Spark Black
2019 Kawasaki Z400 (LAMS) Specifications
Price: $6,299 RRP + ORC
Warranty: Two-year, unlimited kilometre
Colours: Candy Lime Green with Metallic Spark Black, Candy Cardinal Red with Metallic Flat Spark Black
Claimed power: 33.4kW [45hp] @ 10000RPM
Claimed torque: 38Nm [28ft-lbs] @ 8000RPM
Dry weight: 167kg
Fuel capacity: 14L
Engine: Liquid cooled, parallel twin-cylinder, four-stroke, 8-valve, DOHC, 399cc, 11.5:1 compression ratio, 70.0 x 51.8mm bore and stroke, single injector per cylinder, EFI 32mm x 2
Gearbox: 6-speed with Positive Neutral finder
Clutch: Wet, multi-plate with dual action slipper clutch, cable actuation
Chassis: High-tensile steel tube trellis frame with engine as fully stressed member, box-section steel swingarm, Rake: 24.5°, Trail: 92mm
Suspension: 41mm fork, 120mm travel, Bottom-Link UNI-TRAK with 5-way adjustable preload, 130mm travel
Brakes: Single Nissin 310mm semi-floating front disc, Single Balanced Actuation Dual Piston Caliper with ABS, Nissin 220mm rear disc, two-piston caliper. Nissin ABS
Wheels & Tyres: Aluminium alloy, 3.00 x 17in / 4.00 x 17in, Dunlop Sportmax GPR 300, 110/70 – 17 (ff), 150/70 – 17 (rr),
Dimensions:
Wheelbase: 1370mm
Seat height: 785mm
Instruments: LCD ‘streetfighter’ dash with backlit tachometer
2019 Kawasaki Z400 Gallery
The Verdict | Review: 2019 Kawasaki Z400 (LAMS)
Mini-fighter!
It’s hard to go past the mix of nakedbike styling done well, amazing power and performance from the 399 parallel twin, and sheer value on offer with the Z400, making for an amazing option that brings 600cc performance to the table at 300cc pricing.
This Z400 includes a variety of genuine Kawasaki accessories, put to get use
May 15, 2019
Great review! I’ve had one for about 3 months now (U.S.), and that was coming from years on a Ninja 250 and then the 300. This bike FAR surpasses the enjoyment I’ve ever had with those previous bikes. I’m a commuter, and this is the bike I never knew I had been waiting for. I’m happy I didn’t go with the Ninja 400. This is more agile in traffic, and it looks like an angry, hungry feline. I have no complaints. The seat is hard(ish), but as a commuter, I never spend hours on end on the bike. The power is just… amazing. I’ve been riding for 20 years, and have experience on a variety of bikes – this is the one that has brought more smiles to my face than anything else. If you’re on the fence, get out and try one. Just make sure you bring your wallet and a pen. You’ll likely need ’em.
February 10, 2020
Hola, me interesa mucho la Kawasaki Z400, para cambiar mi altual CF Moto 400NK (sin abs) la cual tengo hace 18 meses y recorri mas de 28000km al momento.
Que busco, similar performance, pero quiero bajar algunos kilos, ya que la 400NK es realmente pesada para el motor de 40,5HP.
En fin busco una sonrisa mas grande, digamos de oreja a oreja.
October 1, 2020
Canadian customer here. I have had my 2019 Z400 for less than a month and have 900 km on it. I love this thing. I have been out of riding for almost 20 years and was missing my 1981 Yamaha RD350LC. Until now – this bike is as much fun and way nicer to live with especially in town.
I come back from rides with a big grin on my face & the fuel mileage is super.
Don’t write this bike off as a beginner machine; it has lots of depth.