The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is a popular entry-level sportbike that has been impressing riders with its blend of performance, agility, and affordability. For 2023, Kawasaki has made some key updates to the Ninja 400, including new styling, improved electronics, and enhanced braking performance. In this review, we will take a closer look at the 2023 Ninja 400 and see how it stacks up against its competitors.
Styling and Design
One of the first things you'll notice about the 2023 Ninja 400 is its updated styling. The new bodywork features a more aggressive and streamlined design that is inspired by the Ninja ZX-10R. The front fairing is more angular and features LED headlights, which give the bike a modern and sporty look. The side fairings have been reshaped to improve airflow and reduce wind resistance. The tail section has also been updated with a sleeker design, and the exhaust has been moved to the side of the bike.
Overall, the new styling is a big improvement over the previous generation Ninja 400. It looks more modern and sporty, and the attention to detail is impressive. The build quality is also excellent, with high-quality materials and a solid feel.
Engine and Performance
The heart of the Ninja 400 is its liquid-cooled, 399cc parallel-twin engine. For 2023, the engine remains largely unchanged, producing a peak power output of 45 horsepower at 10,000 RPM and 28 lb-ft of torque at 8,000 RPM. While these numbers may not sound like much compared to larger sportbikes, the Ninja 400's power delivery is smooth and predictable, making it an ideal choice for beginners.
One of the key strengths of the Ninja 400's engine is its mid-range torque. The bike pulls strongly from low to mid-range RPM, which makes it a joy to ride in the city and on twisty roads. The engine also revs smoothly and quickly, making it easy to reach the upper RPM range when you need it.
The Ninja 400's six-speed transmission is also well-matched to the engine. The shifts are smooth and precise, and the clutch is light and easy to operate. The bike also comes with a slipper clutch, which helps to reduce rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts.
Handling and Suspension
The Ninja 400's handling is one of its strongest points. The bike is lightweight and agile, making it easy to flick through corners and change direction quickly. The riding position is sporty, but not too aggressive, which makes it comfortable for longer rides as well.
The suspension is also well-tuned for the bike's weight and performance. The front suspension features 41mm telescopic forks, while the rear suspension is a bottom-link Uni-Trak system with a gas-charged shock. The suspension is adjustable for preload and rebound damping, which allows riders to fine-tune the setup to their liking.
Overall, the Ninja 400's handling and suspension are well-suited to the bike's performance and intended use. It's a fun and nimble bike that is easy to ride, even for beginners.
Brakes
For 2023, Kawasaki has upgraded the Ninja 400's brakes with new calipers and larger rotors. The front brakes now feature dual 310mm petal-style discs with Nissin four-piston calipers, while the rear brake is a single 220mm petal-style disc with a single-piston caliper. The new brakes provide excellent stopping power and feel, which is a big improvement over the previous generation Ninja 400.