For years, entry-level motorcycles were seen as stepping stones—bikes you’d tolerate until upgrading to something “real.” But Kawasaki flipped the script in 2019 with the Z400 ABS, a motorcycle that ditched compromises and delivered genuine thrills while keeping new riders in mind.
Even as competitors like the KTM 390 Duke and Yamaha MT-03 jostle for attention, the Z400 has carved out a cult following. Having spent months riding this machine and sharing stories with several owners, I’m convinced it’s still the best starting point for new riders.
A Ride That Punches Above Its Weight
The Z400 borrowed its 399cc parallel-twin engine from its faired sibling, the Ninja 400. Dyno tests show it delivers around 44 horsepower and 25 lb-ft of torque, figures that outmuscle smaller rivals like the Honda CB300R (31 hp) and Yamaha MT-03 (37 hp).
But numbers only tell half the story. On the road, this engine is a joy. Twist the throttle, and it revs eagerly, rewarding riders who explore its upper RPM range. One Rider shared: “It’s a ripper that loves to be wound out, but it’s never intimidating.”
The assist-and-slipper clutch keeps things beginner-friendly, offering a featherlight pull and preventing rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts.
What sets the Z400 apart is its versatility. It’ll chug along at highway speeds without vibrating your fillings loose, yet it’s playful enough for backroad shenanigans. Compared to the buzzy single-cylinder engines in bikes like the KTM 390 Duke, the Z400’s twin feels smoother and more refined—a trait forgiving for rookies but engaging for veterans.
Lightweight Agility That Builds Confidence
Weighing just 364 lbs (wet), the Z400 is one of the lightest bikes in its class. Pair that with a short wheelbase and steep steering geometry, and you’ve got a motorcycle that feels like an extension of your body. New riders rave about its flickability in city traffic, while seasoned riders appreciate how it embodies the “slow bike fast” philosophy.
The suspension—a non-adjustable Showa fork and preload-adjustable KYB shock—is tuned for comfort over performance. It soaks up potholes gracefully, though it can feel overwhelmed during aggressive cornering. But let’s be real: Most beginners aren’t dragging knees on day one. The setup works for its intended purpose, and if you outgrow it, aftermarket upgrades are plentiful.
One common issue? The stock Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 tires. Owners call them “hard and uncommunicative,” especially in the wet. Swapping to stickier rubber-like Pirelli Rosso IVs transforms the bike’s handling, a mod many consider essential.
Ergonomics That (Mostly) Welcome Everyone
Kawasaki nailed the ergonomics for new riders. The Z400’s upright handlebars, low 30.9-inch seat height, and narrow tank make it accessible for shorter inseams. One YouTube reviewer noted, “I’m 5’6”, and I can flat-foot easily—it’s a confidence booster.”
Taller riders (5’10”+) might feel cramped, though. The pegs can dig into knees, and the angular tank shrouds limit legroom. Thankfully, Kawasaki offers a 1.2-inch taller seat, and aftermarket rear sets or handlebars can tweak the riding position. As one 6’1” Rider said: “It’s snug but manageable for commuting. Just don’t expect to tour cross-country.”
Affordable to Buy, Cheaper to Own
The 2023 model holds an MSRP of $5,393; it undercuts rivals like the KTM 390 Duke ($5,899) and even its Ninja 400 sibling. Used models now hover around $4,000–$6,000.
Ownership costs are equally appealing:
- Fuel economy: Expect 55–60 mpg, translating to 170+ miles per tank.
- Insurance: Rates vary wildly, but the Z400 is generally cheaper to insure than sportier models.
- Maintenance: Oil changes cost ~$50 DIY, and valve checks are infrequent.
The only hiccup? Early models (2018–2019) had clutch slippage issues under hard use. Kawasaki addressed this with revised components in 2020+, and aftermarket springs (like Barnett’s) offer a cheap fix.
Aftermarket Support
Thanks to its shared platform with the Ninja 400, the Z400 boasts a massive aftermarket. Popular upgrades include:
- Exhausts: Slip-ons from Yoshimura or Akrapovic for better sound.
- Fender eliminators: To ditch the bulky stock tail.
- Frame sliders: A must for drop protection.
- Seats: Corbin or Kawasaki’s taller Ergo-Fit seat for long rides.
- ECU tunes: Unlock minor power gains with a full exhaust.
Owners love the customization potential. As one Rider shared: “I’ve turned my Z400 into a mini hooligan machine. It’s addictive.”
The Competition? Close, But Not Quite
The Z400’s rivals each have strengths but fall short in key areas:
- KTM 390 Duke: More tech (TFT dash, adjustable suspension) but pricier and plagued by reliability doubts.
- Yamaha MT-03: Cheaper but less powerful and no slipper clutch.
- Honda CB300R: Lightweight and sleek but underwhelming for highway riding.
Even Kawasaki’s own 2024 Z500, with its 451cc engine and TFT display, doesn’t render the Z400 obsolete. The Z500’s upgrades are incremental, and the Z400’s used prices make it a smarter buy for thrifty riders.
A Benchmark That’s Hard to Beat
The Kawasaki Z400 isn’t perfect. Tall riders will grumble, the suspension is basic, and the clutch needs monitoring. But no other bike in its class nails the balance of fun, accessibility, and value so effectively.
It’s a motorcycle that respects new riders without patronizing them. The power is there when you’re ready, the handling forgives mistakes, and the costs won’t drain your bank account. As Cycle World noted in a head-to-head: “The Z400 makes the Ninja 400 feel redundant. It’s that good.”
With the Z500 now in showrooms, the Z400’s reign has nearly ended—but its legacy as a game-changer is secure. For anyone seeking a first bike that’s more partner than a placeholder, the Z400 remains the ultimate choice.
