2020 Kawasaki Ninja 400

Styling inspired by its larger sportbike kin, the Ninja 400 is sporty yet approachable with its 399cc parallel-twin engine. The Ninja 400 exudes its track inspiration and intent with its clip-on handlebars, angular bodywork, and light trellis frame that is similarly designed to the H2′s. Don’t let the track-ready looks intimidate you, newer riders can feel confident aboard this bike not only due to its displacement and 30.9-inch seat height, but with the optional ABS and assist and slipper clutch mechanics as well (this results in a lighter lever pull and improved performance under deceleration). The Ninja 400 is as much fun on the streets as it is on the track.

Preceding the Z400′s 2019 win, the Ninja 400 won Cycle World’s Best Lightweight Sportbike in 2018. We claimed, “It is the Kawasaki Ninja 400′s overall balance and high level of performance that put it at the top. Its more robust chassis and excellent suspension, plus well-thought-out ergonomics, make it a more flexible streetbike.”

In a comparison between the two 399cc Kawi models, “Although we favored the Z400′s handlebar, there’s no doubt the Ninja 400 is the superior machine when logging highway miles. The addition of the fairing and windscreen do an admirable job of shielding the rider from wind and road debris.”

Competition includes the Z400, Yamaha’s YZF-R3, Honda’s CBR500R, KTM RC 390, and Suzuki GSX-R600.

No changes are addressed for the 2018-introduced machine aside from new colorways. The Ninja 400 is available in Lime Green/Ebony, Metallic Spark Black/Metallic Magnetic Dark Gray/Phantom Blue, and Pearl Blizzard White for an MSRP of $4,999.