2023 Kawasaki Z400 ABS: REFINED RAW.
Introducing the 2023 Kawasaki Z400 ABS…
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.
A fiercely authentic naked sportbike, the Kawasaki Z400 exudes fresh street style and is immediately recognizable in a crowd with a compact chassis and aggressive styling. Comfortable, balanced and capable, the Z400 offers a visceral riding experience that’s sure to turn heads.
The Z400 ABS motorcycle has all the Z character with light-handling trellis chassis, open riding position and aggressive Sugomi-inspired styling combined with Ninja® sportbike power in the 399cc-sized engine that provides plenty of sporty, responsive power for navigating the urban landscape.
The 2023 Z400 features a parallel-twin 399cc engine, Assist & Slipper Clutch, aggressive streetfighter styling, lightweight chassis, upright riding position, a low seat height, and ABS is standard.
2023 Kawasaki Z400 ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
- PARALLEL-TWIN 399cc ENGINE
- ASSIST & SLIPPER CLUTCH
- Aggressive streetfighter styling
- Lightweight chassis
- Upright riding position
- Low seat height
Kawasaki covers the 400cc class bases in 2023
Two of Kawasaki’s stand-out A2 licence compliant machines of recent years make a welcome return for the 2023 model year line up.
As the naked style category continues to expand in size and popularity, the Z400 will ably fulfil the need for a Z model for A2 licence holders fashioned in the same style as its Sugomi styled Z siblings. 2022 has witnessed celebrations highlighting 50 years of the famous Z range providing a springboard for the re-introduction of the Euro5 compliant Z400 complete with its 399 cm3 parallel twin water-cooled engine delivering 33.4 kW (45PS) and 37 N.m (3.8kg-m) of torque at 8,000 rpm.
Complete with an assist and slipper clutch and a trellis frame mirroring the chassis of the range-leading Z H2, the Z400 provides a big bike personality in a manageable package for those making their way up the capacity ladder or those who feel the 400cc class is their ideal destination.
A seat height of 785 mm contributes towards admirable manoeuvrability while Kawasaki’s unique ERGO-fit optional seat enhances riding comfort for taller riders, making the Z400 the most logical choice in class.
Track focused fans also have good reason to rejoice in 2023 as the range partner for the Z model will be the highly popular Ninja 400. The base machine for race and Championship winning machinery in the highly competitive WorldSSP300 Championship, the handling and performance credentials of the Ninja need no further amplification. The chosen mount of current champion, Adrian Huertas, the new 2023 Ninja 400 shares its A2 licence compliance with the Z400 along with a tubular trellis chassis and powerful 286mm front disc brake coupled with an equally effective 193mm rear rotor.
Ninja style never goes out of fashion and the Ninja 400 revels in its family resemblance to the mighty Ninja ZX-10R, a machine that has achieved unparalleled levels of WorldSBK Championship success. And like its Ninja big brother, the 400-class machine also features an assist and slipper clutch facilitating smooth gear down changes and a 20% lighter lever pull at the handlebar.
Anticipation for the re-introduction of not one but two A2 licence compliant 400cc class machines in Euro5 specification will build towards their addition to a comprehensive range for the 2023 model year creating tough yet enjoyable choice for prospective owners. Naked style or Ninja style, Kawasaki has the 2023 mid-capacity class bases covered.
2023 Kawasaki Z400 ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
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.
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.
Compact Multi-Function Instrumentation
The Z400 is equipped with the same stacked instrument cluster as the Z650. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
TECHNOLOGY
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.
ENGINE
Parallel Twin Engine
The engine, derived directly from its Ninja 400 counterpart, has a rider-friendly character, smooth response and abundant low-end torque to please a variety riders • Downdraft intake tract provides a short, direct path for intake air to enter the cylinder, improving cylinder-filling efficiency and contributing to power, especially at high rpm. The downdraft intake also helps eliminate space under the seat so that it can be designed with an easier reach to the ground.
• Large airbox contributes to intake efficiency for more power. The airbox design helps the rider more clearly hear the engine’s intake note during acceleration.
• Unequal height of the intake funnels help smooth throttle response by tuning out torque valleys.
• The 32mm throttle valves are oval shaped so that their closed position is at an angle, which contributes to quick throttle response as the valves open quickly from initial valve rotation.
• Fine-atomizing injectors positioned close to the throttle valves allows them to spray fuel directly onto the valves, which contributes to combustion efficiency and linear throttle response.
• 27.7mm intake and 23.5mm exhaust valves contribute to performance at all engine speeds.
• Forged camshafts, usually found only on largerdisplacement machines, contribute to weight reduction.
• Oil jets cool the underside of the pistons, enabling a light piston design.
• Aluminum die-cast cylinder has an open deck design for excellent heat dissipation and reduced engine weight. Cylinders are sleeveless with plated bores.
• The cylinder is tilted forward 20 degrees to help reduce overall engine height.
• Lightweight flywheel lets the engine rev quickly for sharp response and direct power feeling.
• Machined balancer shaft helps offset engine vibration for a more comfortable ride.
• Oil pan design allows the exhaust system to trace a straighter line, which contributes to weight savings.
• Large-diameter header pipes contribute to performance throughout the rev range.
• Cooling system layout minimizes weight and external coolant pipes.
• Radiator fan cover directs hot air out to the sides and away from the rider for increased comfort when the fan is activated, such as when riding in heavy traffic. It also helps keep the tank, frame and other parts that the rider contacts cooler, further increasing
comfort.
Transmission/Clutch
• The assist and slipper clutch(KP) is compact, and it’s operating plates help reduce lever pull for an extremely light feel at the lever. A wide engagement range helps make it easy to control.
• Using the rotational forces of the clutch hub and pressure plate, the clutch is forced together during acceleration (assist function) so that fewer and lighter clutch springs can be used for a lighter feel at the lever. During high back torque, such as when too low of gear is selected during downshifting, the slipper function allows some clutch slippage to help prevent rear wheel hop and stalling due to engine lock-up.
• Close gear ratios facilitate smooth shifting.
Positive Neutral Finder(KP)
• Just lift the shift pedal from first gear at a stop to select neutral easily.
• A Kawasaki exclusive.
CHASSIS
Lightweight Trellis Frame
• Trellis frame is similar in design to that of the Ninja H2™. Kawasaki’s advanced dynamic rigidity analysis was used to ensure optimum rigidity with minimal weight, so the frame significantly contributes to the bikes low overall curb mass.
• Supersport-style chassis design has a short wheelbase and long swingarm complemented by a steep steering angle that provides light, nimble handling.
Suspension
• Square-tube swingarm construction provides rigidity without unnecessary gusseting, which contributes to weight savings.
• Uni-Trak®(KP) rear suspension linkage ratios and shock settings enhance the ride feel.
• 41mm fork provides rigidity and smooth suspension action so the front wheel has a better planted feel.
Brakes
• Large 310mm semi-floating petal front disc is gripped by a balanced actuation dual-piston caliper. The front brake is the largest in the class and disc size is the same as the ones on the Ninja® ZX™-14R.
• Rigid front brake master cylinder helps eliminate idle stroke for a more positive feel.
• Rear dual-piston caliper with large pistons clamps a 220mm rear petal disc.
• ABS features Nissin’s latest compact ABS control unit that assists braking under certain conditions.
Wheels/Tires
• Stylish star-pattern 5-spoke wheels are similar to those of the Ninja® 650, contribute weight savings, and their optimized lateral rigidity benefits handling by adding to cornering performance.
• Radial tires offer light weight, excellent grip and contribute to both agile handling and riding comfort.
Ergonomics
• Relaxed riding position accommodates a wide range of rider sizes and riding situations.
• The seat cushioning is thick, uses low-rebound urethane for added comfort, and is relatively narrow, so that it is easier for riders’ feet to reach the ground.
• Sporty aluminium footpegs provide direct feel when riding.
• Features a relatively upright riding position, wide and straight handlebar and a sporty but forward foopeg position that allows the rider to easily control the bike while offering plenty of comfort.
High Grade Instrumentation
• LCD screen has a negative display for a sporty, modern appearance.
• Gear position indicator helps with shifting precision and confidence.
• Other display functions include odometer, dual trip meters, remaining fuel range, current and average fuel consumption, coolant temperature, clock and Economical Riding Indicator.
• The Economical Riding Indicator illuminates to indicate favorable fuel consumption to help riders maximize fuel mileage.
Styling
• Authentic lightweight supernaked built for the street..
• Exudes fresh street style and is immediately recognizable in a crowd with its compact chassis and aggressive styling.
2023 Kawasaki Z400 ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $5,399 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $6,699 CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £5,799 GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)
POWER
Engine 4-stroke, 2-cylinder, DOHC, liquid-cooled
Displacement 399cc
Bore x Stroke 70.0 x 51.8mm
Compression Ratio 11.5:1
Fuel System DFI® with 32mm throttle bodies
Ignition TCBI with digital advance
Transmission 6-speed, return shift
Final Drive Sealed chain
Maximum Torque 28.0 lb-ft @ 8,000 rpm
PERFORMANCE
Front Suspension / Wheel Travel Telescopic fork/4.7 in
Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel Uni-Trak® swingarm/5.1 in
Front Tire 110/70-17M/C 54H
Rear Tire 150/60-17M/C 66H
Front Brakes Single 310mm disc, ABS
Rear Brakes Single 220mm disc, ABS
DETAILS
Frame Type Trellis, high-tensile steel
Rake/Trail 24.5°/3.6 in
Overall Length 78.3 in
Overall Width 31.5 in
Overall Height 41.5 in
Ground Clearance 5.7 in
Seat Height 30.9 in
Curb Weight 363.8 lb*
Fuel Capacity 3.7 gal
Wheelbase 53.9 in
Color Choices Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Metallic Spark Black, Pearl Robotic White/Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray
Warranty 12 Month Limited Warranty
Kawasaki Protection Plus™ (optional) 12, 24, 26 or 48 months
2023 Kawasaki Z400 ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
POWER
Engine 399cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC 8-valve parallel twin
Bore x Stroke 70.0 x 51.8 mm
Compression Ratio 11.5:1
Fuel System Fuel injection: ø32 mm x 2
Ignition Digital
Starting Electric
Lubrication Forced lubrication, wet sump
Transmission 6-speed, return
Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual
Final Drive Chain
PERFORMANCE
Frame Trellis, high-tensile steel
Front Suspension / Wheel Travel ø41 mm telescopic fork / 120 mm (4.7 in)
Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel Bottom-link Uni Trak, gas-charged shock with adjustable spring preload / 130 mm (5.1 in)
Rake / Trail 24.5° / 92 mm
Steering Angle (L/R) 35° / 35°
Front Tire 110/70R17M/C 54H
Rear Tire 150/60R17M/C 66H
Front Brake Single semi-floating ø310 mm petal disc with balanced actuation dual-piston caliper
Rear Brake ø220 mm petal disc with dual-piston caliper
DETAILS
Dimensions (L x W x H) 1,990 x 800 x 1,055 mm (78.3 x 31.5 x 41.5 in)
Wheelbase 1,370 mm (53.9 in)
Road Clearance 145 mm (5.7 in)
Seat Height 785 mm (30.9 in)
Curb Mass** 165 kg (364 lb)
Fuel Capacity 14 litres
Instrumentation Multi-function LCD screen with analogue-style tachometer, digital speedometer, gear position indicator, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge, remaining range, current and average fuel consumption, coolant temperature, clock and Economical Riding Indicator
Warranty 12 months
Kawasaki Protection Plus 12 / 24 / 36 / 48 months
2023 Kawasaki Z400 ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details
Engine
Engine typeLiquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel Twin
Displacement399 cm³
Bore x stroke70 x 51.8 mm
Compression ratio11.5:1
Valve systemDOHC, 8 valves
Fuel systemFuel injection: Ø 32 mm x 2
Starting SystemElectric
LubricationForced lubrication, wet sump
Gear Performance & Transmission
Maximum power33.4 kW {45 PS} / 10,000 rpm
CO2 emission91 g/km
Maximum torque37 N•m {3.8 kgf•m} / 8,000 rpm
Transmission6-speed
Final driveSealed chain
Primary Reduction Ratio2.219 (71/32)
Gear Ratios 1st2.929 (41/14)
Gear Ratios 2nd2.056 (37/18)
Gear Ratios 3rd1.619 (34/21)
Gear Ratios 4th1.333 (32/24)
Gear Ratios 5th1.154 (30/26)
Gear Ratios 6th1.037 (28/27)
Final reduction ratio2.929 (41/14)
ClutchWet multi-disc, manual
Suspensions Brakes & Suspension
Brakes, frontSingle semi-floating 310 mm petal discs. Caliper: Single balanced actuation dual piston
Brakes, rearSingle 220 mm petal disc. Caliper: Dual-piston
Suspension, front41mm telescopic fork
Suspension, rearBottom-Link Uni-Trak, gas-charged shock with adjustable preload
Dimensions Frame & Dimensions
Frame typeTrellis, high-tensile steel
Trail92 mm
Wheel travel front120 mm
Wheel travel rear130 mm
Tyre, front110/70R17 M/C 54H
Tyre, rear150/60R17 M/C 66H
L x W x H1,990 x 800 x 1,055 mm
Wheelbase1,370 mm
Ground clearance145 mm
Fuel capacity14 litres
Seat height785 mm
Curb mass167 kg
Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).
