Kawasaki Ninja 650 vs Ninja 400 | Best Beginner Ninja?

So, the Kawasaki Ninja 650 vs Ninja 400, which is our best beginner Ninja and how do these machines stack up in the real world?
The Ninja 400 is a beginner favourite, offering top performance in the 400 cc class with a competitive price, if on the basic side for electronics in this modern age, and is a capable track day weapon and everyday machine.
The Ninja 650 steps things up a notch with higher spec suspension, a TFT, traction control, better build quality and general features, while offering a big bike feel and sitting fairly in the 650 class as a relatively relaxed sportsbike.
Plenty of extra torque make the Ninja 650 a fun machine to ride, with a more mid-range orientated power delivery, to the Ninja 400s very revvy nature and gives a bit more of a refined throttle response.
The Ninja 400 of course offers the lightest clutch pull in the business, a much lighter bike, with handling to match and will likely remain the favourite of those on a strict budget between these two bikes...
MotoHub in Sydney were kind enough to lend me their demo Ninja 650L, so check them out if you're in Sydney and would like a test ride (they also carry Honda, Husqvarna and Suzuki!):
www.motohub.co...
Unit 7/4 Victoria Ave, Castle Hill NSW 2154
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motojournokris...

[@Diemerstein]

Well, I am not a beginner but I'm also not a 185Mph super sports freak. I am your average like to ride on a nice day, not looking to show off or be heard a mile away. The Ninja 400 was my choice, sure the 650 is a bit bigger and slightly bit more powerful, but the 400 handles better. There are several things you can do to the 400 to give you the 650 performance that don't cost a lot. The 400 is quite neutered compared to the Japanese version to follow EU/Australian road regulations for beginner bikes. The biggest bang for the buck is an ECU flash that will give you an extra 10 hp for $250, this will take the performance of the 400 to the 650 level while still having a more controllable bike.. The 650 will be more comfortable of the two for longer road trips.

[@MotoJournoKris]

Yep that's a good way of looking at it. I still love our Ninja 400, it's a great bike.

[@BlackArroToons]

Nice review on both bikes, thanks. I went from the last Ninja 250R before it became the 300R and 400R, to the Ninja 650. After 36,000 miles on the 250R, the fuel mileage wasn't as efficient as years ago, averaging 200 mph versus the 220 I used to get on it, without adjustments. The Ninja 650 is awesome so far, and does everything I want it to. No more wringing the throttle on freeways with its comfortable 6000 rpms versus my 250R's 9000+ rpms. Fuel mileage is 200 miles per 4 gallon tank so far, versus the 4.8 tank in the last 250R. The torque and horsepower improvement make a huge difference in freeway riding on the 650R. No more slow progress while going up hills. Thanks.

[@MotoJournoKris]

There's definitely some nice advantages moving to a 650, not to mention some advances since the 250R was released too!

[@lethimshoot6431]

I am 6 ft and 180 pounds and I want a daily rider that can go 65-70 mph with no problems for about 30 mins.

[@MotoJournoKris]

Any of the 400 or 650 options should to that easily for you, and be cruising along fairly well too, the Ninja 400 you'll have to rev a little more, but it'll happily cruise well past that. The 650s a bit more about the mid-range torque. The Ninja 650 may be a bit more comfortable for longer stretches.

[@rohandanielisaac8107]

Really Slick and Informative video, Thanks a lot Kris :)

[@florme6494]

The way I’d look at it, the ninja 400 has the sports bike fun. If I was looking for a lazier more comfortable commuter I’d get the versys 650, which actually looks rather nice in person. Then I could take advantage of the upright seating position, better handlebar placement and much better wind protection. It could do all that the ninja 650 could (fun wise in the twisties) plus it sits higher to look over cars in traffic. One thing that not many mention is when you are sitting at traffic lights on a sports bike and you sit up to rest you wrists and back/core you can’t actually see behind you in the mirrors. That unsettles me with so many average drivers out there. I’ve never been hit at a traffic light on a bike, but I have twice in a car. If that happened on a bike I would have been pushed out in to traffic on 1, and the other time squashed between 2 cars. May not be alive.

[@MotoJournoKris]

Yep the Versys is a great alternative for the Ninja 650, especially for longer distances or more relaxed ergonomics again. The Ninja 650 is almost just a nakedbike in fairings, so shouldn't suffer quite as badly from the lack of rear vision as a full sportsbike/supersport, where you need to shift your elbows just to get a glimpse!

[@brianpeterson9290]

IMO, the analog tach and general lack of electronics is a real pro for the 400. I hope they stick with it.

[@MotoJournoKris]

Yea I definitely agree, it's nice to have the option to pick a motorcycle without all those bells and whistles.

[@PeGeCo66]

Great video as always Chris. And some unexpected positives on the Ninja 400. Oh, and I've taken pics of my bikes at that same orange sandstone cavern on the side of the old Pacific Highway at Calga! It's a great location 👍

[@MotoJournoKris]

Yea I think it compares surprisingly well for a fairly inexpensive machine honestly. It's a great spot there too, the sandstone really stands out, and a nice mid-point for a quick stop.

[@scotchyyy]

Hey dude, quick note on ur comment about the exhaust on the 650. It's design requires a full exhaust swap, can't chuck a slip on on that bike since 2020. So anyone reading this, if ur a lams rider, ur stuck with that note (it's a bit of a lawnmower forewarned) until ur on ur unrestricted. cheers ^_^

[@MotoJournoKris]

Yea that's a bit unfortunate, it's a similar story on the MT-07.

[@andreigheorghe4109]

I'm 186cm tall, 71kg. Leaning towards 650 mainly because I love the feel of a big bike, and the tires oh boi. Not as slim as a CFMOTO 450SR or Ninja 400. I went to a dealership and sat on both CFMOTO 450SR and Z650 (Unforunately neither ninja 400 or 650 were available so I had to test what I had). When I sat on the CFMOTO felt very uncomfortable, I felt the pressure on the shoulders. It also felt for whatever reason heavier when I grabbed the handle bars. But on Z650.... OH BOI. That felt good. I grabbed the handle bars, straighten the bike and it felt so easy, and light even tho' the bike weighs 191 kg. I think this has to do with the center gravity kinda thing that Kawasaki has. Either way. Felt instantly even the quality. I fell in love with it. Unforunately i dont like naked bikes so I'm gonna wait for a ninja. Also considering these should I go for the 650 or the future 500 2024? I'm able to flat foot the Z650 so... I'm kinda in a spot where I don't know which one to choose.

[@MotoJournoKris]

The Ninja 500 is really just a 451 cc version of the 400, with very few changes, apart from some additional torque and the TFT on the SE versions. It sounds like you just clicked with the feel and ergos of the Z650, and the Ninja 650 is very very similar to that bike. I think if you already were going to get the Ninja 400, the 500 is a nice little upgrade, but I'm not sure the changes would sway me away from the 650 if that's what I had my heart set on.

[@andreigheorghe4109]

@@MotoJournoKris little update went on and sat on a KRT Ninja 650. Felt amazing. Definetely buying it since I'm new to riding maybe that Traction Control staying always on will come in handy

[@MotoJournoKris]

Nice! The TC is definitely a nice little extra and only needs to keep you upright once to be well worth it.@@andreigheorghe4109

[@marcusgeorge1825]

Hi Kris, nice video. I think two factors buyers looking at these should take into consideration. If you are tall and/or above average in weight the 650 is your choice. If you are below average height and weight then go with the 400. Let’s face it. Beginners are that for a reason and possibly don’t know what type of bike will suit them. For me this has changed over the 32 years of holding a road license as it did when I was riding dirt bikes before then. As with both, the more skills I developed, the more capable bike was required. 👍😎🇦🇺

[@MotoJournoKris]

Yep, the 650 is definitely a better choice in that regard, for ergos and for a little extra power too. It is very hard for new riders to figure out exactly what they want, and there's both figuring that out, then it changing over the decades of riding!

[@marcusgeorge1825]

@@MotoJournoKris Exactly. How about yourself? Daytona 675 type bikes or up too litre class sport bikes days gone?

[@christianburger25]

I'm 6'3 and 260 lbs and am very comfortable on the 400. Not saying the 650 wouldn't be more so but it's not a deal breaker for me

[@marcusgeorge1825]

@@christianburger25 True. In the mid 90’s I started racing in the class that most of our world champions and elite riders started in. The 250 cc Australian Production Series. I’m the same height, and still around the 200 lbs mark if my maths is correct with gear on.

[@jarsky]

The first bike I rode in about 1999 was a Ninja 400. I havent ridden bikes since about 2001 until last year when I decided to get my license, and im glad I got the 650L. Being 6'2 and 115kg I really appreciate the more tourer position, extra torque and uprated suspension.

[@Ellisian]

my dream city bike would probably be a ninja 400 with the mid 2010 ZX6R headlights, a more aggressive seating position... and maybe a 270° crank 😅 i used to want a 650, but now that I've sat on an r7, i realised that i want a sportier engine feel more than heaps of torque.

[@MotoJournoKris]

That'd be cool to see! I know the racers definitely fit more aggressive clip-ons and rearsets which will get you the ergos, but the 270 degree crank would be very interesting on the little Ninja 400! I liked that earlier gen ZX-6R, one of my mates had a 2007 I think it was, such a good looking machine, although I like the newer sharper styling too.

[@adrianlapaz5505]

the recently launch cfmoto 450sr have that 270 crank and lots of tech that is missing on the ninja, they are also price lower than the ninja 400 which I have ( in my country atleast)

[@MotoJournoKris]

@@adrianlapaz5505 Yep I'm really hoping I can ride one, as it's looking amazing and I'm interested to see how it stacks up against the Ninja.

[@jaben5489]

thanks for the video! i’ve been wanting a motorcycle for as long as i can remember. just got my first job and now i’m looking to get my first bike. i’m 5’8”, 150 lbs, so a bit on the smaller side. was going to go with the 400 but love the look of the 650. also like the digital dash, and being able to hook my phone up is a big plus. I imagine I would get a 650 or 1000cc eventually. so i feel like getting a 650 now would save me some money in the future. although the 400 seems like the standard for beginner bikes and would also save me 3000-4000 dollars right now. what do you think would be best?

[@MotoJournoKris]

Most riders eventually upgrade for sure, and starting on a 650 can help offset reaching that point, but it really depends on the rider. The performance difference with the 400 when riding hard isn't as big as you might expect, although the additional torque and more easy-going nature is generally a big plus for everyday riding on the 650, alongside some of the extras like the dash, better build quality, etc. If you're thinking of the bike as a long term investment, then I'd say you're on the right track thinking of the Ninja 650. If you think you might be tempted go upgrade in a year or two, considering the 400 is worthwhile.

[@MeeroBasha99]

Been stuck between both for a month now. I’m avg height about 5’9 1/2, 180lbs. Very first bike, super new rider. Dont care about speed as long as it can keep up with a highway. But not a big issue. #1 is safety and handling, ease to learn per se. Daily commute about 15 miles max or less. Street only. Any suggestions?

[@MotoJournoKris]

If you want maximum safety the traction control on the Ninja 650 is probably the standout between the two, otherwise I'd say the Ninja 400 should definitely do the job and be an ideal first machine. It's a bit lighter, a bit easier to handle overall, and less torque does make for a more forgiving nature in some ways. Definitely sit on both though and make sure they feel comfortable to you though too.

[@christosswc]

Unfortunately new Ninja 500 does away with the analogue tacho, a shame. It will have either LCD on basic or a TFT in the SE version. Analogue dials are so cool, but I guess the younger generation just appreciate the tech stuff and us old dogs are slowly being pushed aside. I am having to make a choice between the 650RS, Ninja 500 and Ninja 650, it will have to wait till 2024 but it's a tough choice beause they are all great, they all have merit and they all appeal to me for different reasons.

[@MotoJournoKris]

There's definitely something cool about the oldschool clocks! That is a hard choice too, hard to go wrong though.

[@user-yr3zf5fd2b]

Hey Kris, great review again. Off topic question. I am getting my CF Moto 450 SR coming may 21st in Sydney.. Would you like to ride it and review in your channel ? Reason - your review of the bike was one of the reasons to buy..

[@MotoJournoKris]

Yea definitely!

[@user-yr3zf5fd2b]

@@MotoJournoKris sure ! let me know for a catch up...

[@Tennessee968]

Hi Kris. Have you done the same comparison with the Z400 and Z650? Do you think your opinions on those two bikes would apply to them with what you shared here? I own the Z400 and was wondering if the Z650 would be worth getting later on. Best wishes.

[@brendensmith3452]

Awesome video as per normal Kris. Have you done a review of the current CBR650R? I couldn't find much on them. I am tossing up between this, the R7LA and the CBR650R. Any advice? Thanks.

[@MotoJournoKris]

It's been years since I've ridden the CBR650R unfortunately, but I did feel it suffered a bit more from restrictions than the parallel twins, especially carrying that little extra weight, which tends to be the case with the four-cylinders. The Ninja 650 is definitely the most relaxed of the trio (more like a faired nakedbike), and I'd probably say the R7 is the most sporty/aggressive in the ergonomics, although the Honda is next closest. The R7 steps things up a bit in offering adjustable suspension which is nice, although the CBR650 now has a TFT and traction control which help it feel a bit more modern, alongside a solid suspension setup, just without the extra adjustability. What are your priorities as far as what you want from the bike, when you're thinking of these three?

[@imtye]

My next bike ....ninja 400!

[@MotoJournoKris]

Can't go wrong with one, they are an amazing machine!

[@tlita93]

Do a lot of the points, pros and cons etc., from this video apply also to Z400 vs. Z650? Considering all those bikes should use pretty much the same engines respectively. For years people were mostly praising MT07 as a better bike than Z650 and maybe you can say that for R6/7 vs. Ninja 650 I forgot how beautiful Ninja 650 is, 400 as well. Also Z650 also got that riding mode update recently that you mentioned for Ninja, which is kinda of a slight advantage now vs. the MT07. Cheers

[@MotoJournoKris]

Yep it's a very similar situation between the Z400 and Z650, just some slight ergonomic tweaks really. I think the MT-07 has a great rep mainly because that 270 degree parallel twin is such a good thing, which has really carried it. The TFT/electronics definitely help level that playing field vs the MT and R7. The Ninjas are such lookers though, although I may be a little biased owning one! I think the R7 is much more the track weapon though than the Ninja 650. For daily riding I'd probably pick the NInja 650 it's a much more comfortable machine, where the R7 if I was just carving up corners and doing track days would pull ahead, it is quite analogue in comparison which some riders like, others don't.

[@themarvelousvintage76]

The ninja 650 it's better bike overall from tft display and dual brake disc the small front caliper on ninja 400 when starting to pushing the bike on the track or twisty road it will start to fading........plus has more vibration than the 650.

[@MotoJournoKris]

I'm not sure about the vibrations to be honest. If you keep the 650 lower in the rev range, like the mid-range, it's smooth, but push the revs higher and there's more vibrations than the 400. However the bike I tested was brand new, so more mileage and being broken in could change that.

[@sideswipetv8141]

I currently ride a 2022 Ninja 400 and keep debating if I should go for the Ninja 650 mostly because I take the highway a lot and it feels like it takes long to pass cars. Do you think it's worth switching over to a 650 or should I be looking at something more powerful for longer highway riding?

[@MotoJournoKris]

The 650 having more torque will definitely have a bit more in the tank for overtaking, but if you're doing lots of touring style riding you'll probably appreciate going for something with more performance again and possibly a bit more long distance comfort as well.

[@sideswipetv8141]

@@MotoJournoKris awesome thanks!

[@Fly_With_Mason]

I’m between this and the 400 for my first bike,I’d mostly be using it to commute. Im a bit larger 245lbs so I’m not sure how much of a factor that will play?

[@MotoJournoKris]

I'd definitely sit on the two bikes and see how you feel about the ergonomics and fit, the 650 definitely wins when it comes to additional torque, but you can just rev the 400 harder for a similar result. It probably comes down to whether you prefer the more easy-going mid-range of the 650, or are happy needing to rev the bike harder with the smaller 400. There might be some benefits with the 650 on the suspension side of things too though!

[@lachlancannard]

I'd pay an extra $2000 for the 650 if it had an up-and-down quickshifter and cruise control.

[@MotoJournoKris]

That'd be nice to see and a very welcome value add!

[@dukie1616]

What was that restriction you were talking about on the 650? Also have you ever ridden an unrestricted 650?

[@lachlancannard]

Learner bikes in Aus/NZ have restrictions in engine size and power to weight, similar to Europe's A2 classification.

[@MotoJournoKris]

The new Ninja 650 specifically I've only ridden the L or restricted version, bikes like the MT-07 restricted and unrestricted I've ridden back to back, and the CBR650R.

[@MotoJournoKris]

@old man strength Yep we get the full power version here, or the 650L which is restricted for newer riders.

[@jefflambert8603]

Heres a Switch ...thinking of going Down from a 650 to the 400.. Cheaper Insurance Road Tax (Cost of Living Crisis) Would it be a let Down ?

[@MotoJournoKris]

I guess it depends what you're looking for. If you're a more relaxed rider who really values the mid-range torque of the 650 it'll probably be a notable loss, as you really need to rev the Ninja 400 for performance, so it's a bit more frantic. That makes it lots of fun if you like riding a bit harder through the twisties, and you can arguably ride harder at slightly lower speeds. The 400 is definitely a step down in build quality, but if you go have a sit on one, you'll be able to see the differences.

[@dry509]

Is 206 lb rider to heavy for Ninja 400? Is the screen on the 400 ok for the freeway?

[@MotoJournoKris]

I wouldn't have said so, I know a few riders around that weight who were happy riding the 400, but there's a level of subjectivity there as to what you prefer. The screen is decent, I've done quite a few longer trips and been happy.

[@marvingretc1528]

My english is Not Good But Which one is faster when the 650 is down to 48hp vs the Open 400

[@MotoJournoKris]

In outright top speed, I'm not sure to be honest. The extra torque is what I really noticed with the 650, which you feel all through the mid-range in every gear. It lacks the top-end of the 400 though, but I'd guess doesn't need it to be in the same ballpark.

[@bastiontec5572]

What is the average MPG you can get out of ninja 650 and is it comfortable bike for someone who weight 300lbs and want to carry a passanger?

[@MotoJournoKris]

Total carrying capacity is 441 lbs, for rider, passenger, luggage, etc but that's probably a conservative recommendation. Comfort is pretty subjective, short trips may be ok with a pillion, but something like a Versys 650 is probably better if you're thinking longer trips for comfort, although I think the outright carrying capacity is similar.

[@jeffomspaugh6691]

I'm 6'1" and 275 on a 400 and I'm good

[@kolsonmaddox777]

In your opinion, for my very first bike, should I go with the 400 or the 650? I’m leaning towards the 400 mainly cause it’s more popular, smaller, lighter, and not as much torque. Going to use the bike mainly for just riding around town, or quickly riding over somewhere.

[@MotoJournoKris]

I think the 400 is the best option for the vast majority of riders honestly, not that the 650 isn't great, but you're getting a lot of bike with the 400 for significantly less.

[@kolsonmaddox777]

@@MotoJournoKris alright, thanks. I think I’m gonna go for the 400 for my first bike 😃

[@MotoJournoKris]

@@kolsonmaddox777 Wicked, let us know how you go!

[@kolsonmaddox777]

@@MotoJournoKris alright I will! I’ve not got my license just yet, so going to get license sometime, and then picking up a 400!

[@visakh6600]

I have got a bit of an idea about Ninja now, I would like to go ahead with 400 as my first beginner bike in Australia.

[@SKEEZOTHEREALSKEEZO]

Remember the 3k dollar difference between these bikes.

[@MotoJournoKris]

Yep, it's a huge advantage towards the Ninja 400 honestly, in my estimation at least.

[@SKEEZOTHEREALSKEEZO]

Definitely! I went with the 650 because I've been riding dirt bikes and 4 wheelers since I was a kid. If that wasn't the case I'd had went with the 400. It's a great bike that doesn't break the Bank and has a great resale value​@@MotoJournoKris

[@MotoJournoKris]

Yep for riders with dirt bike experience I think the 650 class makes way more sense. Even if it's the first time on the road, you've got the riding skills down, which is a major thing you have to worry less about. @@SKEEZOTHEREALSKEEZO

[@tiger2q]

*CF MOTO 450 SS Has entered the chat**

[@MotoJournoKris]

Very interested to see how it stacks up!

[@tiger2q]

@@MotoJournoKris me too!

[@ChildsPlayBeatz]

The only thing is it's hard to get parts for it since it's new to the market. I was definitely looking into one until I saw other ppl who had it saying that.

[@MotoJournoKris]

@@ChildsPlayBeatz Yep that's always a concern when new bikes come out. Normally CFMOTO offer some competitively priced accessories though, which might cover what some riders are after.

[@mrnobodytheuser2950]

And now left the chat. Kwacka way better

[@efremendez]

Answer ninja 500 40th anniversary lol

[@101BadBreath]

Ninja 400 all day every day

[@MotoJournoKris]

It's a great bike!