Z400 (MY21) – Kawasaki

A fiercely authentic supernaked, the Kawasaki Z400 exudes fresh street style and is immediately recognizable in a crowd with its compact chassis and aggressive styling. Comfortable, balanced and capable, the Z400 offers a visceral riding experience that is sure to turn heads. The Z400 combines the sharp, aggressive style of the Z-Family to create an aggressive, agile, masculine impression. The muscular, athletic bodywork style reflects the increased performance while forming a flowing design that appears to float above the engine. Like other models in the Z Series, sugomi design elements (crouching stance, low-positioned head and upswept tail) give it a silhouette instantly recognisable as a Kawasaki Supernaked.

ENGINE

Displacing 399 cm³, the new engine delivers significantly increased performance compared to its predecessor: 33.4 kW for the Z400 ( +4.4 kW vs the 2018 Z300). The higher performance can largely be credited to the new downdraft intake, which is accompanied by a larger airbox offering increased intake efficiency. The increased performance is complemented by a rider-friendly character; the smooth response and abundant low-end torque facilitate throttle control for new and experienced riders alike.

More compact Assist A & Slipper Clutch (ø139 mm >> ø125 mm) with less rigid operating plates offers a 20% lighter lever pull. Complementing the extremely light feel at the lever, the new clutch has a wider engagement range, facilitating control. The Assist & Slipper Clutch was developed based on feedback from racing activities. The clutch uses two types of cams (an assist cam and a slipper cam), offering two functions not available on a standard clutch.

SUSPENSION AND BRAKES

Large 310 mm semi-floating petal front disc is gripped by a balanced actuation dual-piston caliper. The disc is the same size as those used on the Z1000. At the rear a 220 mm petal disc is slowed by a dual-piston caliper with larger (25.4 mm >> 27 mm) pistons. More rigid ø41 mm telescopic fork (previously ø37 mm) delivers better suspension action. The front wheel feels really planted, direction changes are made easily (even when the bike is fairly upright – handy when navigating traffic jams), and overall the suspension offers the plushness of a larger displacement bike. Revised linkage ratios and rear suspension settings contribute to the high-quality ride feel. 5-way preload adjustability lets riders adjust the stiffness and ride height to suit body weight or when riding two-up. The shock is easily adjustable with the on-board tool kit.

FRAME

The Z400 features a trellis frame similar in design to that of the Ninja H2. Kawasaki’s advanced dynamic rigidity analysis was used to ensure optimum rigidity with light weight. The engine is rigid-mounted and used as a stressed member. The new frame design contributes significantly to the bike’s low curb mass. Innovative Kawasaki technology like the new radiator fan cover (patent pending) located behind the radiator directs hot air out to the sides away from the rider, reducing rider discomfort when stuck in heavy traffic. Redirecting the air also helps keep the tank, frame and other parts that contact the rider cooler, further increasing rider comfort.

Relaxed rider triangle accommodates a wide range of rider sizes and riding situations, contributing to its rider-friendly character. The relatively upright riding position and wider handlebar put the rider in the ideal position for active control, facilitating dynamic, sporty riding. The Z400 is equipped with the same stacked instrument cluster as the Z650. Offering an easy-to-read layout, the analogue-style tachometer features a gear position indicator at its centre and sits atop a multi-function LCD screen. In addition to the digital speedometer and gear position indicator, display functions include: odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge, remaining range, current and average fuel consumption, coolant temperature, clock and the Economical Riding Indicator.

LAMS APPROVED

Please consult your local authority before purchasing a motorcycle for learner use.
Each state and territory has its own regulations relating to the range of motorcycle models approved under the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme.
The manufacturer does not warrant or represent that the models shown are approved in each state and territory.