The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR is unlike anything else in the small-displacement sportbike category. While most 400cc bikes use parallel twins, Kawasaki has gone all out with a high-revving inline-four, making this a true supersport in a lightweight package.
With class-leading horsepower, aggressive styling, and track-ready performance, the ZX-4RR is a dream bike for those who want big-bike thrills without the heavyweight feel. Let’s dive deep into what makes this 400cc rocket special and why it’s turning heads in the motorcycle world!
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR: Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Engine | 399cc, Inline-Four, Liquid-Cooled |
| Power Output | ~75 hp @ 14,500 rpm (with Ram Air) |
| Torque | ~39 Nm @ 13,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed with Quickshifter |
| Weight | ~189 kg (416 lbs) |
| Seat Height | 800 mm (31.5 inches) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15L (4 gallons) |
| Electronics | Traction Control, Power Modes, Quickshifter, ABS |
| Display | 4.3-inch TFT with Smartphone Connectivity |
The ZX-4RR is the only 400cc bike with an inline-four engine, making it unique in its segment. It screams up to 15,000 rpm, giving it an exhilarating sound and performance that rivals 600cc supersport bikes.
What Makes the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR Special?
1. High-Revving Inline-Four Engine
Most bikes in the 400cc category, like the Yamaha R3 or KTM RC 390, use parallel-twin or single-cylinder engines. The ZX-4RR, however, features a screaming inline-four that revs beyond 15,000 rpm, making it the closest thing to a track-focused supersport in a small displacement category.
2. Race-Ready Quickshifter & Assist Slipper Clutch
The ZX-4RR comes with a bi-directional quickshifter, meaning you can shift up and down without using the clutch. This makes it perfect for aggressive track riding and fast corner exits. The assist & slipper clutch also ensures smooth downshifts, reducing rear-wheel hop.
3. Advanced Electronics for a 400cc Bike
Despite being a small-capacity bike, the Ninja ZX-4RR is packed with high-end electronics, including:
- Traction Control (KTRC) – Adjusts power delivery based on road conditions.
- Multiple Power Modes – Customize power output for different riding styles.
- Quickshifter – Clutchless shifting for a race-inspired experience.
- Full LED Lighting & 4.3-inch TFT – Modern styling with smartphone connectivity.
4. Supersport Ergonomics & Sharp Handling
With its clip-on handlebars, aggressive riding position, and lightweight chassis, the ZX-4RR handles like a proper supersport. Kawasaki has designed this bike for corner-carving enthusiasts, making it ideal for both track days and twisty mountain roads.
5. Best Sounding 400cc Bike
Thanks to its inline-four configuration, the ZX-4RR delivers an exhaust note that sounds like a baby ZX-6R. If you love the sound of high-revving supersport bikes, the ZX-4RR is unmatched in its class.
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR vs Competitors: How Does It Stack Up?
| Feature | Kawasaki ZX-4RR | Yamaha R7 | KTM RC 390 |
| Engine | 399cc Inline-Four | 689cc Parallel-Twin | 373cc Single-Cylinder |
| Power | ~75 hp | 72 hp | 44 hp |
| Torque | ~39 Nm | 67 Nm | 37 Nm |
| Weight | 189 kg | 188 kg | 172 kg |
| Best For | High RPM Thrills & Track | Mid-Range Power & Daily Use | Lightweight & Agile |
While the Yamaha R7 and KTM RC 390 are strong competitors, the ZX-4RR is the only one offering the exhilarating inline-four experience. If you love high-revving engines and race-ready handling, this is the bike to get.
Pros & Cons of the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR
| Pros | Cons |
| Class-leading power in the 400cc segment | Expensive for a 400cc bike |
| High-revving inline-four engine | Heavier than twin-cylinder rivals |
| Quickshifter & traction control | Aggressive riding position not ideal for long rides |
| Race-inspired handling & suspension | May not be the best choice for beginners |
| Best exhaust note in the category | Requires frequent gear shifts for optimal performance |
Final Verdict : Should You Buy the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR?
If you’re looking for the most powerful, high-tech, and track-ready 400cc sportbike, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR is in a league of its own.
- It’s fast, aggressive, and sounds like a proper supersport.
- The advanced electronics, quickshifter, and high-revving inline-four make it unique in its class.
- If you love track days and spirited canyon rides, this is the perfect bike.
However, if you prefer a more practical daily rider with better low-end torque, a Yamaha R7 or KTM RC 390 might be a better option.
