Kawasaki finally unveils new 400cc range

We’ve been waiting for these to be unveiled for a while now - but honestly, we’re not really sure why.

With the new Euro 5 specifications, the middle-weight category has become a lot harder to navigate these days. The 600s aren’t what they used to be (not least because a lot of them are now 700s) but there’s also a minefield of 300cc, 400cc and 500cc models to get you scratching your head.

Focussing on A2 licence holders, Kawasaki has now doubled down on its 400cc range. Using a 399cc parallel-twin, you’ll have your choice of the Z400 naked bike and a new Ninja 400 too.

The 2023 Ninja also shares the A2 licence compliance - but what’s interesting is that the press release for this new version focuses heavily on its WorldSSP330 Championship success and draws parallels with the ZX-10R and its World SBK success… but what’s noticeably absent is any mention of the 600 Ninja. And that’s because… it’s effectively dead. What was once a beloved track favourite the 636 has been replaced with the Ninja 650 - but don’t be fooled by the extra displacement. The Ninja 650 is very much an entry-level bike. But then, so is the 400. And they’re both A2 compliant… so, who’s the Ninja 400 actually for?

It seems odd that the progression up the Kawasaki power ladder is now: a 400cc parellel-twin, a 650cc parallel-twin and then a massive leap forward to the 1000cc inline-four of the ZX-10R.

The 400cc range is interesting - but it’s a reminder that the screaming inline-four 600 class has all but gone away… and that makes us kinda sad.

Either way, if you’re interested in hopping on one - both the Z400 and Ninja 400 will be available in August.