Kawasaki Ninja 400 - What makes it so good? Complete Walk around Review!

[@wolverine771]

I just bought one yesterday same color and all, I can't even remember the last time I smiled that much. Still a bit finicky while I'm on a faster going road but so far it's been a lot more fun than I originally anticipated

[@PeterLoweOne]

Awesome!! Thanks for sharing! Enjoy it!

[@krasky]

Really great review! I really appreciate you highlighting that it's not just a "beginners bike" (like many other reviewers do) but also a great option for "experienced" riders who just want a light, comfortable and fun bike. Nobody would say that a Golf GTI or Impreza WRX is a "beginners car".

[@PeterLoweOne]

That's a great vehicle comparison! There was a time that bike dealers liked to give the idea of "Buy this lower powered bike for now, and see me in two years for a bigger bike" but the reality is that these 400cc Ninjas have as much horsepower as those bigger bikes had, back in the day. They're a blast for everyone to ride, and everything from the modern tires, good suspension, and solid braking tech make them easy to handle for just about any type of rider.

[@GixxerRider1991]

I just picked up a 2019 Ninja 400 as my first bike this past weekend never having ridden a motorcycle before in my life. I was shocked by how easy it was to ride.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Yeah! The Ninja 400 is so underrated as a bike that isn't intimidating for new riders, but it also let's you grow your skills to crazy levels. Seeing experienced riders zip these around a track really helps you appreciate the diverse group of riders that this bike can keep satisfied. Thanks for watching!

[@zhaobinzhang4290]

Got some confidence from your comment

[@andrewmenagias9977]

Huge relief because I recently took the BRC and my instructor pointing me to the Kawasaki’s and I saw this one. It blew me away. Buying it in a couple months super stoked

[@andyboulais8754]

I have a 2018 ninja 400 with only 2,100 miles on it. It’s the candy plasma blue color that seems to be rare. Have full yosimura exhaust, tune, air filter and altered the air box for more airflow. This bike flies!!! Super reliable and I was able to hang with a big Harley bagger a few weeks ago and he was even impressed.

[@PeterLoweOne]

It's true! This bike may not have the very top end speed of larger sport bikes, but it has great acceleration and handling that allow it to be right there with bigger bikes! Thanks for sharing your experiences! Feel free to subscribe! We'll have a lot more coming!

[@redwingsfan019]

ive had my 400 for almost a year now and I still love it. Sometimes I wish it had a little more high end power but it is a 400. I plan to upgrade to a ZX6r in the future but my 400 is plenty fun for now!

[@PeterLoweOne]

Just so you know there's a BIG jump between the ZX6R and the 400. Be ready for it. The riding position is also quite a bit different, Both great bikes, but different. I'l get a review up on the 2023 ZX6R as soon as it shows up!

[@pfunk8394]

If it's your first bike I would get a used one ....I'm going to be honest and talk about my experience....Learning to ride for the first time can be tricky...but if you get a new bike it really is hard to learn the clutch when you are also breaking it in....which means it's gonna pop on you every time u put a gear ....which can feel like the bike is literally getting away from you ....just my experience....it stopped doing that around 1500 miles ....be aware

[@PeterLoweOne]

I think it depends on each individual. I started on used bikes, and that was the best route for me. But being able to start on a bike that has brand new everything (brakes, engine, suspension) can also help riders be sure that they're getting a motorcycle that's reliable, not worn out, and does what they want it to do. I know several people who have purchased this as their first bike, and it's been great for them.

[@pfunk8394]

@@PeterLoweOne true ....I felt better going new ....but breaking in that clutch was a bit scary at first because I couldn't tell if it was me or the new clutch....but after 1500 miles it was smooth .....and learning in a city ....probably isn't the best way ...to break in a clutch and learning to ride at the same time .....I definitely love my new 2022 ninja....got the racing colors ....

[@SuperNoLifeKing]

I got a 300 as a first time then got the 2023 400 and I just love it

[@chris5k132]

The ninja 400 is an absolute gem. Plenty of power for any type of rider. Comfortable and lightweight. Easy to flick around. The engine is so good. Wish Kawa had put on usd forks and aluminium swingarm to make the bike look more premium and for its price, i think buyer deserve that too. So that's my only complaint, usd forks and aluminium swingarm.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Thanks for sharing! I agree with you about this bike, it's an absolute blast. I think, in fairness to Kawasaki, most Ninja 400 buyers wouldn't appreciate the difference with an upside down fork or aluminum swingarm, and by not going for that, it keeps the price in line. This is the entry level into the Ninja lineup. You always have to make compromises to come up with an entry-level bike, but if this bike is a compromise... Wow. It's pretty incredible!

[@ItsYio]

Great vid, informative and in depth, i definitely want the ninja 400 as my first bike after watching this👍

[@PeterLoweOne]

Thanks for watching! Lots more to come!

[@thoriden528]

I was actually in sitting on this exact bike yesterday! Love jim Gilbert’s and Fredericton

[@PeterLoweOne]

Nice!! Next time you're in, see if I'm in! It would be great to meet you!

[@DesiredEntity]

Im currently 18, looking forwards to getting a ninja as my first bike, ive been wanting one since i was 13.

[@PeterLoweOne]

I've been there! When I was 18 I drove a Ninja 500. This one is SO much better than that bike and faster too! It's a great first sport bike!

[@thecrimsonwhisker]

I got the 2023 400, i love this bike. I traded my grom for it and its jsut an awesome bike!

[@PeterLoweOne]

Nice! Great upgrade! Thanks for sharing!

[@leeinwis]

I'm test ridin that tomorrow , gray 2023 , only 2699 miles ,5300 bucks.

[@robvanduren761]

Peter thanks for your review. I rode one today and it was WAY better than i expected. My only concern was the screen height which made for a noisier and turbulent helmet. Im 5 11 and could you please share your experience on this. Thanks

[@PeterLoweOne]

Hi Rob. Thanks for watching. I don't remember the noise being too bad for me. I didn't ride the bike the day that I did this review, but I've ridden it in the past. I'll have to take it out again. Sometimes an upgrade in helmet can make a difference? They're usually designed to take the air best at a certain angle. Just a thought.

[@j.martin4476]

I would imagine that their are aftermarket upgrades for the wind screen as well.. a taller one that would push the wind up a little higher

[@sanfrancis9845]

Best bike on planet earth. It is too beautiful to describe.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Haha! The Ninja 400 is so underrated! It really is a great bike! Thanks for watching. Feel free to subscribe. I have more videos planned for this bike!

[@sanfrancis9845]

@@PeterLoweOneThanks Peter! Brilliant channel! Subscribed 😎👍

[@metraxstar1451]

I got the same one same color 2022 and 8 months after I first got it as a beginner I can say that It can keep up for a few more years until I’m ready to get a 1000

[@PeterLoweOne]

I've got my eye on the 1000sx... It's a pretty great bike! Thanks for watching and sharing your experiences! Feel free to subscribe! I've got a lot more content coming!

[@SuperHawkVTR]

I went from a ninja 250 to a superhawk 1000 is that bad

[@metraxstar1451]

@@SuperHawkVTR I don’t see why it would be bad

[@LeoRoy-o6u]

Hey! Is the slip on exhaust Akrapovic Carbon street legal in Canada?

[@undauntedcomb0554]

i love hearing Canadians pronounce sorry as “soary”

[@PeterLoweOne]

Does this mean that I've earned your subscription? 😉👍

[@undauntedcomb0554]

@@PeterLoweOne yk what I might as well

[@SuperHawkVTR]

I like when they say “hockey, eh?”

[@x-105strikefreedom]

Kawasaki still make the EX-250 (Ninja 250). It is still available on Japan.

[@kirko2882]

Hey, I have a cheap Chinese bike 250cc. And I'm looking to upgrade to a 400 or 650 ninja. I can't seem to make up my mind on which would be best.

[@PeterLoweOne]

I'm a big fan of both of those bikes. Feel free to search my channel for videos on the 400 and 650. I've made quite a few videos on those bikes. They may help you decide which bike is best for you!

[@jaymarkmarbebe5865]

I have a bike same as you 2022 krt but the problem is I don’t see any shifting lights liked it’s blinking when it’s time to change the gear

[@PeterLoweOne]

I didn't think the Ninja 400 had a shift light... now I'm going to have to double check!

[@jaymarkmarbebe5865]

Brilliant thank you so much

[@PeterLoweOne]

@@jaymarkmarbebe5865 I just checked, and I don't see one on the ones we have in the showroom. Hope that helps!

[@scottcook8061]

Working on getting one of my own from Seth at Jim Gilbert's

[@PeterLoweOne]

That's awesome! Seth is great!

[@mce3210]

I keep on pushing off getting one I have no patience for going to the dmv waiting on line giving in my info then making ANOTHER appointment to come back a month later to take the test then dealing with the insurance and license plates and all that…. I just want to buy the bike and ride! ;) any tips

[@PeterLoweOne]

Yeah. Go to the DMV wait in line, give them your info, make another appointment, come back in a month, deal with the insurance and ride... We've all been there, and no one regrets it when you're out there on your very own motorcycle! I can't solve all the problems, but if you get yourself ready to ride, I'll help answer your Kawasaki questions for sure!

[@NickPissanu]

Ninja 400. Good Bike.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Yeah, it's a great bike! I think it really fits what a lot of people want in a motorcycle!

[@bobmemer9062]

Thoughts on this Ninja 400 vs CFMOTO 300SS

[@PeterLoweOne]

I just mentioned in another comment that I'm not sold on CFMoto as a brand right now. I have questions about their long term reliability. Will parts be available when you need them? Will the dealer still be selling the line 3 or 5 years from now. Sometimes dealers step into new brands to give them a try, and then find out that it's not what they had hoped. As far as the bike goes, in this case, I genuinely believe that the Ninja 400 is a better bike, by quite a bit. It's really known as a class leader for a reason. But things could change, some of these newer brands could put pressure on the more established brands and I don't think that's a bad thing for you or me! We win when companies need to make better and better products!

[@trillmixin6999]

I had a 2017 ninja 650 that was totalled recently. very fun but it was really only good at acceleration and not much else. I'm thinking about getting a ninja 400 to replace it because I heard due to the weight and setup of the bike, it's a much more spirited ride for those who like to tackle twisties and tracks. The left over money I can use to upgrade it as well. What are your thoughts? I think I might want more in terms of acceleration but you just make the 400 sound so sweet

[@PeterLoweOne]

I'm planning to compare the Ninja 400 to the Ninja 650 very soon. Maybe as soon as tomorrow. I think that may help you decide! Feel free to subscribe!

[@trillmixin6999]

@The Joker what are you implying

[@PeterLoweOne]

@@user-zi7eg5ir2x I won't buy a supersport anymore. I love them, but for the street, an upright bike with good handling is perfectly acceptable. The issue isn't the upright bike. Without placing blame, a lot of riders overestimate their skills, and underestimate their bikes. Take a skilled rider on any of these bikes and they'll dust an average rider on any bike that the average rider wants to ride.

[@HS-hi2gc]

I've ridden small and big bikes most my life but can't wait for the ZX4R.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Yeah... I just want to know if it's coming to Canada. That would be a great supersports bike!

[@Matthew-mm7zz]

Would it be a good fit for a 6’3” rider? and how is the speed/ ability to pass cars on the freeway?

[@PeterLoweOne]

The bike has a top speed around 200 km/h or 120 mph, so it's absolutely capable at highway speeds. Passing power is still there at any relatively legal speeds, but I find this geared best to be quick accelerating, and driven up to about 120km/h. So if you're driving any normal roads, those speeds still allow plenty of passing power. If you get up to 150 km/h, you're not going to have the grunt of a bigger bike to still accelerate quickly, but that's not what this bike is designed to do.

[@PeterLoweOne]

As far as your height. You'd have to decide if it works for you. For reference, I'm about 6 feet tall.

[@user-ob4kn3rp3j]

So split on this or a cbr. Love the color though

[@PeterLoweOne]

The CBR 500 doesn't have the sporting capability of this. Plainly, this one is more fun! The power is almost identical, but I believe this bike is lighter. Geometry matters too, and this one is set up to be both comfortable and fun.

[@jimgilbertswheelsanddeals]

Awesome... looks really good...

[@mibrakgebremedhin1821]

Kjhbhhnj

[@Takisan07ZII]

Can u make a standalone Z400 review like this one? Thank u~

[@PeterLoweOne]

I'll probably do that for the 2024 Z500 that was just announced.

[@Takisan07ZII]

@@PeterLoweOnelooking forward to see the difference. I recently own the Z250 last December in Malaysia it was a fantastic bike for the spec.

[@bfarm44]

My love for Ninjas began in 1985 with the 600r my first street bike and she still sits in my garage used on nice days as I decided to preserve her. Having gone up the scale all the way to the zzr1400 which I also still have. Waiting for the 2023 400 as I prefer that paint job over this one and I’ll be keeping that too

[@PeterLoweOne]

There are 2023 Ninja 400's in stock right now at Jim Gilbert's Wheels and Deals!

[@UltimateEnd0]

Going to save up my schekels 4 this one.

[@PeterLoweOne]

You can't go wrong! Good value, lots of fun! Thanks for watching!

[@HS-hi2gc]

I'm gonna hold out for the ZX4R gonna be a wicked little bike.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Yeah, I think that's aimed at a different market, but I'm hoping it comes to Canada and if it does, I'll definitely review it!

[@aleejaandrooo23]

I never comment but thank you for real i'm thinking about buying this bike as my first bike but if i could ask for something i would love for you to do a video on the bad things about this bike if it has any i don't know

[@PeterLoweOne]

That's a great question and I appreciate you taking the time to watch and interact! No motorcycle is perfect. So I think you'll find people who find that power is their number one way to have fun on a motorcycle, and if that's you, the Ninja 650 is probably a better bike. For me, my right foot has a little less foot room than on some other models, and if I move it back to adjust it, my size 11 feet can have the heel resting on the heat shield of the exhaust. This isn't a big deal, but that doesn't happen on other bikes. And then it just comes down to a few other simple things. If you need luggage space, you're buying a tank bag or a tail bag, as there's no factory luggage options like the Ninja 1000 SX. And if you're planning on taking two passengers regularly, this isn't the best bike for that. The power, gearing, suspension, and general handling aren't set up for maximum fun with two passengers. If you're looking at motorcycles within this class though, the Ninja 400 is very tough to beat. It truly is a class leader. I hope that helps a little bit!

[@slowrider05]

i hope they release the zx4r soon so that the ninja 400 prices drop a little so i can buy one Lol

[@PeterLoweOne]

I've worked in the auto industry for a while. Prices don't drop year after year! Pick up a couple shifts of something on the weekend, and you'll be better off than waiting for a price drop. 😉

[@scottiebryant6539]

i don't know bout that seat man i have one of these bikes & that dang seat just kills my butt after i ride bout 2 hours but the bike is a awesome bike to ride other thin the seat is the only thing i don't like my ht is 6.2 tall

[@PeterLoweOne]

Yeah, that's probably fair. The Versys 650 is going to have the best touring seat, but this bike definitely has a better seat than some other bikes in the class. If everything else about the bike is good, aftermarket seats are available.

[@beberlynbarrameda2716]

Someday I can buy my own motorbike,,,thank you sir

[@PeterLoweOne]

Thanks for watching!

[@entername3840]

I out grew this bike and went for a 1000cc and then i crashed and realised that I didn't.

[@PeterLoweOne]

Haha. There's a reason that I don't use the term "outgrew"

[@browngreen933]

I like the dash. Don't like the racing bike configuration.

[@PeterLoweOne]

It's still pretty comfortable, but yeah, the styling is going to appeal to some, and not others.

[@browngreen933]

@@PeterLoweOne it doesn't look comfortable for long rides.

[@PeterLoweOne]

@@browngreen933 You'd have to try it. Plenty of people take these on very long rides. I would!

[@browngreen933]

@@PeterLoweOne Okay, I never did ride one. I'd like to.

[@MiamiNinja.2Thailand]

If the bike is more than enough power for the road, then why would anyone consider the ninja kawasaki 650?

[@PeterLoweOne]

The Ninja is physically a larger bike, it's going to have good acceleration... and to be fair, people like variety. Go walk on a Toyota dealer's lot, there are SUV's that are smaller, and larger, they all look similar, some have more and less power. People like variety. The Ninja 650 is going to have some extra torque for taking a passenger. There are plenty of reasons to consider one over the other.

[@idaretofall8888]

you gotta research what the slipper and assist clutch is dude..it has nothing to do with the clutch lever..

[@PeterLoweOne]

This may surprise you, but I actually do research what I talk about. While I don't give fully scientific answers to most things, I promise you that a Kawasaki with a slipper and assist clutch does have a lighter feeling clutch lever than a bike without that system. Thanks for watching!

[@browngreen933]

The 400 engine is good, but Kawasaki needs an adv version of it.

[@PeterLoweOne]

I'd love to see a proper KLR type of bike with this engine. That would be a bike I'd buy!

[@browngreen933]

@@PeterLoweOne Yes, Kawasaki is missing the boat not making a 400 adv under 400 lbs.

[@PeterLoweOne]

@@browngreen933 I don't know if it has to be under 400 lbs... But a nice full featured, smaller cc adventure bike would be something that I'd love to ride, for sure!

[@browngreen933]

@@PeterLoweOne Okay, but aren't Ninja 400 and Z400 both under 400 lbs? Adv 400 shouldn't be much over 400 lbs.

[@PeterLoweOne]

@@browngreen933 true, but racks and factory luggage might add weight. Light weight would would be great! But I want a full featured bike. I have a vision of what COULD be done! 😉

[@bigmcdee8681]

I’d get one if it didn’t sound like a straight up dirt bike 😬 gonna have to be the r3 instead since it sounds like a real motorcycle! 😉

[@PeterLoweOne]

Really? I'd take the Ninja all day over the R3. But competition is a good thing!

[@bigmcdee8681]

@@PeterLoweOne I haven’t driven the ninja yet so it might be the better choice as far as power is concerned! Competition is VERY good! That’s how we end up with all these badass bikes to choose from :D

[@PeterLoweOne]

@@bigmcdee8681 Word of advice... don't buy the R3 until you try the Ninja. If you don't like the exhaust sound, that can be fixed. If you don't like the bike, that's a more expensive mistake! I think you'll like the Ninja 400.

[@unhopefull4112]

Just switch out the exhaust 😂

[@bigmcdee8681]

@@unhopefull4112 I listened to many clips and sadly it sounds even worse :(

[@Smily771]

As someone who is a beginner I got the ninja 400 last December let me tell you something…….get the 650 instead TRUST me you’ll want something a bit faster. Hasn’t been a year for me and I already want something faster and I think I should’ve gotten the 650 instead

[@PeterLoweOne]

That's fair. Some people are going to want a bigger bike. And Kawasaki definitely has options! I used to own the Versys 650, and that engine is the sweet spot for a lot of people. That's why Kawasaki uses it in so many motorcycles. The nice thing for you is that your Ninja 400 should hold it's value very well compared to other small displacement bikes.

[@Hintaqa]

No offense but then you‘re still a beginner. You talking about „get a faster bike“ but you dont use the full potential of this bike. Liter bikes doesnt have any chance against me and my n400 on the street. Learn to ride..

[@PeterLoweOne]

@@Hintaqa So let's keep it friendly in the comments section here, but yes, good skill on a Ninja 400 will help you keep up with a LOT of bigger bikes where it's harder to continue developing skills.

[@freewillvsfate6803]

The gap on price between the 650 and 400 doesn't justify buying the 650 imo. If you're going to spend 2k or so more... might as well get a R7. Ninja 400 is great bang for your buck. Also a very very popular track bike with lots aftermarket support. 400 > 650

[@PeterLoweOne]

@@freewillvsfate6803 I think the 400 is a great bike, and I hear what you're saying about the 650. I still really like that 650 engine. Keep in mind the 650 is a 2 cylinder, so it's a little more approachable than a 4 cylinder full on sport bike, and there will be an insurance difference too. But I agree, for what the 400 is, and what it can be for most users, it's an incredibly versatile bike, and a great value.

[@tavs111]

I dont get why theres so many more ninja 400s out there than the z400 it should be reversed

[@PeterLoweOne]

I think it's because the riding position is so similar, and that Ninja name matters to people. They're both excellent bikes.

[@1stfrompuertorico568]

1st

[@PeterLoweOne]

You're faster than I am, and I'm the one who published this!!

[@1stfrompuertorico568]

@@PeterLoweOne I am faster! 😄😄😄I will give you a couple of seconds next time 😉😄👍 New Teddy bear!😄😄

[@bboykiddblack]

Honda cbr500r is better for the real world and highway

[@PeterLoweOne]

Nah, it's heavier, doesn't handle as well, and despite having a larger engine, it doesn't make any more horsepower. If you drive both, you'll immediately feel the difference. The Honda is nice, don't get me wrong, but the most people who have the chance to spend time with both bikes agree that the Kawasaki is the standout bike of the two.

[@bboykiddblack]

@@PeterLoweOne nah, being heavier makes you more planted on the highway and not so susceptible to windblast, these are entry level bikes thats important, its weight is for a reason. Also the rev range is more like a naked bike, power is low to mid range which is better for cruising and touring, not high up like a traditional sport bike suited for the track. Cbr500r is better for real world needs

[@PeterLoweOne]

@@bboykiddblack I disagree about the weight making you feel more planted. The CBR does make power at lower revs. Personally, I think that takes some character away, but to each their own. I appreciate you taking the time to watch and comment! All good! Thanks!

[@bboykiddblack]

@@PeterLoweOne a heavier bike is more stable on the highway than a lighter one, that may not matter to an experienced rider, but again these are entry level bikes, the cbr suits real world conditions better for its target audience. Bigger 600cc size back tire too. Nice vid, keep it up