The Z400 is powered by a responsive, rider-friendly 399cc parallel twin engine complete with
assist and slipper clutch. Created with Kawasaki's unique Sugomi design philosophy, the
Z400 benefits from light, predictable handling plus low weight, the combination
for a middle-weight naked machine.
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More Rigid Front Fork
More rigid ø41 mm telescopic fork 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.
Light, Predictable Handling
With both the engine and frame being new, engine placement could also be optimised. The new chassis features a short-wheelbase/long-swingarm design, complemented by a steep caster angle that delivers light, natural handling. The bike’s light weight also contributes to the easy handling and facilitates manoeuvring when off the bike.
Sugomi Styling
The new Z400 combines the sharp, aggressive style of the Z650 with the large-volume design of the Z300 to create an aggressive, agile, masculine impression. Its muscular, athletic bodywork 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.
Easy Reach to the Ground
While seat height is 785 mm (when radial tyres are fitted), the slim design of both the seat (30 mm narrower) and the rear of the engine gives riders an unobstructed line for their feet to reach the ground.
Compact Multi-Function Instrumentation
The Z400 is equipped with a stacked instrument cluster. 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.
Large-Diameter Front Brake Disc
Measuring ø310 mm (the same size as those of the Z1000), the Z400/250’s 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. All models are equipped with ABS and feature the latest ABS unit from Nissin, the most compact and lightweight available.
Significantly Lower Weight
The lightweight design of the new engine and frame, plus extensive efforts to minimise weight result in a curb mass of only 167 kg for the Z400 (3 kg lighter than the Z300) – making them the lightest twin-cylinder models in their class.
Ergonomics for Active Control
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.
Compact, Lightweight & Efficient
Designing the engine from scratch allowed the engine layout to be optimised for size, weight and efficiency. The new engine is comparable in size to that of the 2013-2018 Z250. Numerous weight reduction efforts keep weight to a minimum – despite a larger displacement. The clean design trimmed of any unnecessary items, and the revamped layout enable a slim engine and a cooling system with minimised external piping.
New Assist & Slipper Clutch
More compact clutch (ø139 mm >> ø125 mm) with less rigid operating plates offers a lighter lever pull. Complementing the extremely light feel at the lever, the new clutch has a wider engagement range, facilitating control.
Lightweight Trellis 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.
Powerful, Rider-Friendly Parallel Twin
Displacing 399 cm3, the new engine delivers significantly increased performance compared to its predecessor: 33.4 kW (+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.
LED Headlamp
In addition to contributing to the Z400’s sharp looks, the newly designed LED headlamp is highly visible and offers significantly increased brightness and a wider illuminated path.
ERGO-FIT
ERGO-FIT is an interface system that allows a wide range of riders to feel at one with their machine. Genuine Kawasaki Accessories may need to be purchased for certain Ergo Fit adjustments.
ABS
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) ensures stable braking performance by preventing wheel lock during braking.
ASSIST & SLIPPER CLUTCH
Based on racing technology, the Assist & Slipper Clutch acts as both a back-torque limiter and a self-servo mechanism that enables a lighter clutch lever pull.
ECONOMICAL RIDING INDICATOR
The Economical Riding Indicator is a mark appearing on the instrument panel to indicate favourable fuel consumption, encouraging fuel efficient riding.