Positioned in Kawasaki's sport motorcycle lineup, the 2018 Kawasaki Ninja 400 utilizes a 399 cc (24.4 cu in) liquid-cooled twin, four-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 44 HP (32.1 kW) at 9,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 37 Nm (27.3 lb-ft) at 7,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 110.3 HP per liter and a 2,000 rpm working window between peak torque (7,500 rpm) and peak power (9,500 rpm), the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.
On the scales, the Ninja 400 measures 166 kg (366 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.27 HP/kg (3.77 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 805 mm (31.7 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance, combined with a 1,405 mm (55.3 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 15-liter (4 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 8 indexed model years from 2014 to 2023, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
110.3 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.27 HP/kg (3.77 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
7,500–9,500 rpm
Standover Height
805 mm (31.7 in)
Engine
Displacement399.0 ccm (24.35 cubic inches)
Engine TypeTwin, four-stroke
Power44.0 HP (32.1 kW)) @ 9500 RPM
Torque37.0 Nm (3.8 kgf-m or 27.3 ft.lbs) @ 7500 RPM
Compression11.5:1
Bore x Stroke70.0 x 51.7 mm (2.8 x 2.0 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemInjection. DFI® with 32mm throttle bodies
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
