![]() ![]() In addition to the extra 103cc, Kawasaki says that the new engine’s improved performance is due in large part to its downdraft intake and large, 5.8-liter airbox. The Ninja 400 is all-new, from its larger 399cc, DOHC parallel twin, to its assist-and-slipper clutch, to its steel trellis frame that uses the engine as a stressed member, and a swingarm that bolts directly to the back of the engine a la the Ninja H2 hypersport models. ![]() This graphic illustrates the minor difference in size between the old 300 and the new 400. Three of the Big Four have already bumped up their quarter-liter machines to 300cc, including Kawasaki, but with the 2018 Ninja 400, Team Green is throwing down the gauntlet. ![]() Plus bigger’s always better, right? Not quite-500 or even 650cc “entry level” sportbikes have existed in all four Japanese OEM lineups at some point, but they are often perceived (correctly or not) as dumbed-down versions of the “real” sportbikes. The trouble with a 250, though, is that it can be easy to outgrow, and for many riders it’s just not powerful enough to cope with freeway traffic. Many will tell you that it was a Ninja 250R. Walk through the paddock at your local track day and ask the riders (many of whom likely also race at the club level) about their first sportbike. Advertisement Fueled up with clam chowder and salmon tacos, the Ninja 400 and I are ready to hit the road again! Photo by Kevin Wing. ![]()
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