Kawasaki Ninja 400

The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is an all new entry in the sports bike segment and it looks sharper than its sibling the Kawasaki Ninja 300; courtesy all new fairing and a new LED headlight setup. It’s beefier too, but lighter by 1kg. The instrument console is derived from the Kawasaki Ninja 650, whereas the tail lamp is inspired by the one seen on the Kawasaki Ninja H2. As far as features are concerned, the Kawasaki Ninja 400 gets dual LED headlights, a slipper clutch and the safety net of ABS as well.

The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is powered by a 399cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin motor that is mated to a six-speed gearbox. Peak power of 45PS is generated at 10,000rpm, with 37Nm of peak torque kicking in at 8,000rpm. The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is built around a trellis frame, similar to the Kawasaki Ninja H2. Like the Ninja H2, the new Kawasaki Ninja 400 also features a swingarm mounting plate, allowing the it to be affixed to the rear of the engine to improve stability. The front suspension is taken care of by telescopic forks, while the rear gets a monoshock. Braking is managed by a 310mm front disc and a 220mm rear disc.

Yamaha R3: It comes with a 320cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin motor that is refined and makes 42PS of power. Complementing the motor is a very capable chassis that feels just right, regardless of whether you are in city traffic, touring or belting down the racetrack. The introduction of ABS adds Rs 23,000 to the cost of the previous version, but for that you also get stickier Metzeler Sportec M5 tyres.

DSK Benelli 302R: The Benelli 302R isn’t an outright performer thanks to its weight. However, if performance isn’t a priority and if you are looking for a lot of pose value, the 302R is a good option. It feels smooth, offers confidence-inspiring handling and a very dramatic exhaust note that is similar to much bigger bikes.

Kawasaki Ninja 300: The Kawasaki Ninja 300’s parallel-twin engine feels rev happy and is extremely refined with plenty of power at the top. It is lighter than the 302R but 1kg heavier than the Ninja 400. It feels confident, nimble and engaging as an entry-level sportsbike. It costs more than the 302R and the Yamaha R3, that too without ABS. The Ninja 300 is as admirable as before and provides a good balance between track day and city commutes. It’s a more affordable option over the Ninja 400 but not the Yamaha R3. Also, it will prove to be less intimidating of the two.

The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is here to challenge the KTM RC 390 on paper but realistically it is the Yamaha R3 that takes it up by the horns. Both showcasing twin-cylinder motors with similar riding dynamics and almost similar power figures. The Ninja 400 also gets ABS, something the Ninja 300 misses out on. Add to that the slipper clutch, which is neither present on the R3 nor the 302R. So if you are looking for a performance packed sports tourer powered by a parallel-twin motor, the Kawasaki Ninja 400 is the way to go. Considering you have the extra dough.