Ever wondered how fast a Kawasaki Z400 can really go? If you’re considering this bike or just curious about its performance, you’re in the right place. The Z400 is known for its sporty design and impressive specs, but what does that mean for speed on the road?
Key Takeaways
- The Kawasaki Z400 features a powerful 399cc parallel-twin engine, delivering 49 horsepower and 38 lb-ft of torque for impressive acceleration and handling.
- With a top speed of around 120 mph, the Z400 offers a thrilling ride suitable for both city commuting and highway cruising.
- Weighing only 365 pounds, the Z400’s lightweight design enhances agility and responsiveness, making it an excellent choice for riders of all experience levels.
- The motorcycle achieves 0 to 60 mph in approximately 4.5 seconds, showcasing its impressive acceleration capabilities.
- Rider weight and road conditions significantly impact the Z400’s speed and performance; lighter riders and smooth surfaces facilitate better acceleration.
- Compared to competitors like the Yamaha YZF-R3 and KTM RC 390, the Z400 stands out for its superior acceleration and top speed in the lightweight motorcycle category.
Overview Of The Kawasaki Z400
The Kawasaki Z400 stands out with its blend of performance and style. This lightweight motorcycle features a parallel-twin engine that delivers 49 horsepower and 38 lb-ft of torque. Weighing only 365 pounds, it offers agile handling and impressive acceleration.
You’ll find a 399cc engine paired with a six-speed transmission. This combination ensures smooth power delivery, making it perfect for both city riding and longer journeys. The Z400’s top speed reaches around 120 miles per hour, providing plenty of thrill for riders.
The bike utilizes an aggressive design, including sharp lines and a distinctive headlight. The aggressive stance enhances its sporty look while improving aerodynamics. The seat height of 31.5 inches accommodates a wide range of riders.
Fuel efficiency is also a highlight, boasting around 50-60 miles per gallon. This feature allows you to ride longer distances without frequent stops for gas. The digital display provides essential information like speed, gear position, and fuel level, all at a glance.
With its combination of power, handling, and modern features, the Kawasaki Z400 appeals to both beginners and experienced riders. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking a nimble and responsive motorcycle on the road.
Performance Specifications
The Kawasaki Z400 delivers impressive performance, thanks to its well-engineered specifications. Here are key details that showcase its capabilities.
Engine Type and Displacement
The bike features a liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine, known for its balance and efficiency. With a displacement of 399cc, it provides strong torque and responsive acceleration, perfect for both city commutes and winding roads. This engine design contributes to the Z400’s nimble handling and lightweight feel.
Horsepower and Torque
The Kawasaki Z400 generates 49 horsepower at 10,000 RPM, ensuring rapid acceleration when you twist the throttle. It also produces 38 lb-ft of torque at 8,000 RPM, giving you ample power for quick overtakes and enjoyable riding experiences. This combination leads to an exhilarating ride, particularly for those seeking performance in a compact motorcycle.
Speed Capabilities
The Kawasaki Z400 delivers impressive speed performance, making it a standout option in its class. The combination of its lightweight build and powerful engine contributes to a thrilling riding experience.
Top Speed
The Z400 reaches a top speed of around 120 miles per hour. This capability is mainly due to its 399cc parallel-twin engine, which produces 49 horsepower. Riders appreciate this speed for both city commuting and occasional highway rides, allowing for quick lane changes and confident overtaking.
Acceleration
Acceleration in the Z400 is equally impressive. It goes from 0 to 60 miles per hour in approximately 4.5 seconds. This rapid response is a key feature for riders looking for agility in urban environments. The bike’s lightweight structure—at just 365 pounds—enhances its overall performance, offering smooth and effortless acceleration when you twist the throttle.
Factors Affecting Speed
Several elements influence the speed of a Kawasaki Z400. Understanding these factors helps maximize performance and enhance your riding experience.
Rider Weight
Rider weight significantly impacts the speed and performance of the Z400. Heavier riders may experience slower acceleration and lower top speeds due to increased load. For instance, a total weight of 200 pounds on the bike could reduce the agility compared to a 150-pound rider. Adjust your riding gear and equipment to optimize weight. Choosing lighter gear can improve overall speed and handling.
Road Conditions
Road conditions play a crucial role in the Z400’s speed capabilities. Smooth, dry roads facilitate better traction, allowing for quicker acceleration and higher top speeds. Conversely, wet, uneven, or gravel surfaces can reduce grip, causing slower acceleration and higher risk of skidding. You can enhance safety and performance by avoiding riding in adverse conditions. Always be aware of the road surface before opening the throttle.
Comparisons With Competitors
When evaluating the Kawasaki Z400, consider how it stacks up against similar motorcycles in the lightweight category.
Yamaha YZF-R3
- Engine: The Yamaha YZF-R3 also features a parallel-twin engine, with a 321cc engine capable of producing 42 horsepower.
- Top Speed: The top speed of the YZF-R3 reaches around 118 mph, slightly lower than the Z400.
- Acceleration: With a 0 to 60 mph time of approximately 5.5 seconds, the Z400 accelerates faster than the R3.
Honda CBR500R
- Engine: The Honda CBR500R offers a larger engine at 471cc, resulting in 47 horsepower.
- Top Speed: Its top speed is about 130 mph, which outpaces the Z400.
- Weight: The CBR500R weighs more at 421 pounds, affecting handling and maneuverability.
KTM RC 390
- Engine: The KTM RC 390 houses a single-cylinder engine with 373cc displacement producing 43 horsepower.
- Top Speed: It reaches around 116 mph, comparable but slightly slower than the Z400.
- Acceleration: The RC 390 achieves 0 to 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds, lagging behind the Z400’s performance.
Suzuki GSX250R
- Engine: The GSX250R uses a 248cc twin-cylinder engine with a modest output of 25 horsepower.
- Top Speed: It maxes out around 80 mph, significantly lower than the Z400.
- Acceleration: It takes roughly 8 seconds to reach 60 mph, making it less competitive in terms of speed.
| Motorcycle | Engine (cc) | Horsepower | Top Speed (mph) | 0 to 60 mph (seconds) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kawasaki Z400 | 399 | 49 | 120 | 4.5 |
| Yamaha YZF-R3 | 321 | 42 | 118 | 5.5 |
| Honda CBR500R | 471 | 47 | 130 | 5.0 |
| KTM RC 390 | 373 | 43 | 116 | 5.5 |
| Suzuki GSX250R | 248 | 25 | 80 | 8.0 |
The Z400 stands out for its balance of speed, weight, and acceleration among its competitors. Understanding these differences helps you make an informed choice when selecting a motorcycle that fits your performance needs.
Conclusion
The Kawasaki Z400 stands out as a thrilling choice for riders who crave speed and agility. With its impressive acceleration and top speed it offers an exhilarating experience on the road. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out the Z400’s balance of performance and handling makes it a fantastic option.
Choosing the right motorcycle is all about what fits your style and needs. The Z400 certainly delivers on performance while still being approachable for riders at various skill levels. If you’re looking for a bike that combines speed and fun it’s definitely worth considering the Z400.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the engine size of the Kawasaki Z400?
The Kawasaki Z400 is powered by a 399cc parallel-twin engine. This engine delivers impressive performance for a lightweight motorcycle.
How much horsepower does the Z400 produce?
The Z400 produces 49 horsepower, making it a powerful choice in its category for speed and agility on the road.
What is the top speed of the Kawasaki Z400?
The top speed of the Kawasaki Z400 is approximately 120 mph, offering riders exhilarating performance.
How quickly can the Z400 accelerate?
The Kawasaki Z400 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, showcasing its excellent agility and speed.
How does the Z400 compare to its competitors?
When compared to competitors like the Yamaha YZF-R3 and Honda CBR500R, the Z400 stands out due to its superior speed and acceleration.
What factors affect the Z400’s performance?
Factors that can influence the Z400’s performance include rider weight and road conditions, which can impact acceleration and handling.
Why is the Z400 a good choice for lightweight motorcycle riders?
The Z400’s balance of speed, weight, and quick acceleration makes it an attractive option for riders looking for performance in the lightweight motorcycle category.
