2019 Kawasaki Ninja 400 | First Ride 

We're back at it with another First Ride and this time we're on the Kawasaki Ninja 400. Make sure to watch the Breakdown video if you are hearing me talk about comparisons and don't know what I'm talking about: ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-dgzLKgEngag.html

When I was learning to ride, the idea of a beginner bike actually looking good was unheard of. Now they are just mini versions of the big boys. What a time to be alive.

easy maintenance, lower insurance, with some thrill - what's not to love.

You really gotta thank Kawasaki for doing a 400. Driving the prices for the 300 and 250 down for beginners to really start instead of buying a brand new one.

I wonder what people think when they see you waving your hands around 😂

As a current owner of a 2018 Ninja 400 KRT edition I have to say this is by far the best 400 review I've found on RU-vid, great job! It is my first bike so I can't really say anything by comparing it to say the R3, but there are a few things I've noticed about my 400. To start, personally I don't like the look of the mirrors so i swapped them for my brothers old 300 mirrors which I think makes it look much better. The clutch is just how you said, it lets out early and although I stalled a few times at lights while still learning the feel for it, it was not difficult to pick up and use at low speeds. The bike does not like going into neutral while slowing down for a stop which is probably more of a personal preference. There is very few upgrades available besides exhaust and maybe windscreens, but that's most likely due to it being newer then most bikes. The instrument cluster scratches very very easily. After the first wash with clean microfiber towels i noticed it had a scratch right down the middle and more popped up after a few more washes. Lastly, the abs seems to turn on at almost every stop. This is not me grabbing a hand full of break in an emergency stop or the roads being wet, these are casual stops coming up to lights or stop signs. That being said I haven't had an issue mechanically with it or had it fail on me, I just wish I didn't feel it activate on almost every stop. Overall these aren't very major things, in my time of owning the bike I've never had a mechanical issues and I've loved every second of it. This video was by far more accurate than any 400 bike review I've seen and I think you really nailed it with this one.

I completely agree about it being better to have the extra power. I think in situations where an accident is probable, most people only think to hit the brakes but, in some cases more speed is required. More power gives you the ability to accelerate better in the gear your in and, also gives you room in the rpm range to drop a gear and raise the revs, to shoot out of the scenario.

7:39 poor guy is trying to merge in but nobody is letting him in lol

I've ridden the r3 and ninja 400. Ninja 400 spanks the r3. The ninja 400 is considerably faster and the clutch is much easier to use for beginners. I didn't at all feel like the 400 was less planted than the r3 as chase mentioned.

Your inseam shrank 4 inches since you rode the R3. Might wanna see a doctor about that.

I know Kawasaki's traditionally green, but this is IMO my favorite color. I wish they made more bikes with this color.

This bike is sooooo much fun!! I got my 2023 a few weeks ago, a return to bikes after a 8 year hiatus. I don't care if you are a new rider or an experienced squid, you will LOVE this bike. 100% guaranteed!!!

I don't know why I'm watching this, I already own a Ninja 400 and I love it. Even took it on a 1600 mile round trip, both ways in one stint. Edit for the replies: The trip was 800 miles there and back. On my channel I uploaded a timelapse of the 800 mile trip back home if anyone wants to see. On the initial trip I was riding with a buddy who needed more frequent stops so it was more relaxed and took ~14 hours. The trip back I had to rush back solo. I did make a stop for breakfast but other than that I just kept riding till I needed a fill-up. I had an issue with my license plate breaking off my hinge for.. photographs.. which I also had to stop for to deal with at one point. Overall though, the ride was not bad for me; but I am pretty young and capable of riding all day. My arms didn't really feel tired or sore because I have a go-cruise (an essential for long trips). The only thing that did get sore after maybe 5-6 hours was my behind.

I’ve got a fully modified 2020 R3 that’s producing similar RWHP to the Ninja 400. After riding with a 400 and 650 in the mountains I could tell it’s got more torque, and with the same modifications I’ve done to my R3 it would even rival the Ninja 650 on the street/commuting. I love my R3, it looks amazing too, but purely for the track/commuting and as a bike you would keep as a beginner and grow into, I’d recommend the Ninja 400. It even includes a slipper clutch, and it’ll do 0-60 in 4.09 seconds with a capable rider. Stock the R3 does this in 5.1 seconds. The Ninja 400 will hit 110 in 19 seconds, whereas the Yamaha R3 hits that in 28 seconds. The R3 has a more aggressive riding position, looks amazing, and is a blast through the corners. Yamaha needs to make a 400 or at least update the R3’s engine, bigger bore and a 270 crank, or make an R4 inline-4. Yamaha R3 for looks, Ninja 400 for performance & Value.

Your camera always messes with me I always look for a car beside you or a drone but I don't see anything lmao

You mention people going from litre bikes to small capacity sports bikes and I sort of fell into that too. Went from a 2009 CBR600RR to a 2020 Ninja 400. Main reason was that I was sick of commuting into the city on the Honda, it was just so twitchy and uncomfortable at low speeds. Two months in and no regrets. Cheaper insurance, cheaper fuel, a delight to commute on, and so light and flickable that it’s a blast on the weekends or when I want to take the back roads home. Yet to be in a position where I thought “damn I wish I was on the CBR now”, and I loved that bike!

I used to do suburban commuting (no highway) in the early 90s with a Ninja 250, and this brought me back. Fun stuff!

Bought my first bike just last month! Went with the 2022 Kawasaki Ninja 400 and it handles like a dream. Thanks for all of your videos on first rides and learning to ride. It has helped me tremendously. Keep up the good work brother!

Ninja 400 use slipper clutch, that's why the engine brake are smoother

You always comment on how far in or out the clutch engages/disengages, that has nothing to do with the bike and everything to do with how the dealer sets up the clutch cable. The friction zone varies bike to bike but the positioning is easily adjusted

I went from riding 1000cc to this bike and it's been one of the best decisions ever. I love my 2020 Ninja 400. I forgot how fun it is to ride a "slow" bike fast. I'm 5' 10" and this bike fits me perfectly. Comfortable, quick and nimble in urban settings and even highway. This is the ultimate commuter bike that can carve up the back roads like it means business!

whew.. I love this first ride video. Really lights up the fire in me to get this bike. Really looking forward to the beginning of the year.

You totally obviously loved this bike man. You had so many good things to say about it. How did it not win your low CC challenge?

first bike was a 82KZ 550 and had to sell it and i got a 2006 ninja 250 when i graduated. now come spring of 2022 ill be the proud owner of a brand new 2021 ninja 400

love your reviews because you get third person rolling shots keep it up :)

One of the best reviews I've seen recently... thanks and more power !

Great review! BTW riding this bike for almost a year (beginner, first bike) I love the soft clutch and the neutral was never trouble at all

I've had a 300 and 650 sport bike and a 250 dual sport throughout riding for four years. I recently purchased this due to the all-around perfection of the bike. Hardly anyone would downsize in cc's but I think I made the right choice.

Rode this bike for 16 hours this year. Its super comfy but needs a bigger windshield for interstate roads. BUT absolutely fun! I love how much fun I get to have anywhere I go. 3k miles and still counting

Outro crew score: 8/10 Chase you didn't talk about the brakes, one of the most crucial parts about a motorcycle.

Haven't watched your channel for a few months....1 million subs. Congratulations!

I just how much you’re laughing and having fun on this bike! It really adds to the review!

Great review Chase! As far as not feeling planted, do you know what tire pressure you were running? I think that plays a big difference. I know dealerships overload the tire pressure because the bikes could sit for long periods of time. Even after i get my bike serviced, I have to release a ton of air pressure, and when I do, it makes a big difference in overall grip. Anyway, good stuff Chase!

I own a 2019 ninja 400 and love it. Gets better after engine break in. Great on mountain twisties, great engine break, great commuter. I'm 6'1" 215 and it hauls me around fine. Love that red color.

ive had over a half dozen bikes over the last 12 or so years. i had a shadow 1100 bobber i built, as a commuter, so i didnt need to take my vtx 1800, out for short trips, so last year, but after moving i realized i needed something more agile, and sold the bobber, bought a 2021 ninja 400. i love that lil bike. every time i take it out i come back with a bigger grin. sure i could have gotten a bigger bike, but this lil bike is soo much fun.

This is my favorite one out of the class and the best video of the class that you’ve review ! Thanks bro !!

I have no idea how many times I've watched this and still like it 😂❤️🌚

I've had my ninja 400 for about a month now and I LOVE it! I'm 6'3, 230 lbs so I'm almost too big for it but I can still comfortably ride it. It's my first bike and I'm having no problems learning on it. My cousin got his R3 the same time I got the 400 and they're very similar as far as power/speed, but he's a bit smaller than I am. I think either would be a great starter bike, but the 400 felt better for someone my height

This collor is amazing!

I will say that several years ago when my dad got his first bike, he got a Ninja 500 (I mentioned this was years ago, right?). On of his reasons for doing so is that there were three (3) different roads near him that had speed limits 60+ mph (including one interstate) and to get anywhere, he would have to use at least one of them. At the time, he was deciding between a 250 and a 500 and was worried that the 250 wouldn't be able to handle the highways in a safe manner. I'm thoroughly impressed that Kawasaki has been able to bring that capability down to a 400cc class bike and THAT IT HAS COMPETITION. Thank you for this review.

Spot on review. I bought a ninja 400 bc of you. Definitely still feels peppy after 6k miles and definitely has enough power to throw you into a corner too fast if you are a new rider and not careful.

The coloring on the camera car video is straight 3D game

Going to pick up my 2023 400 Saturday 🤘.. can’t wait

Thank you for the video. You have convinced me to get a Kawasaki Ninja 400 as my first bike thank you sir

About the neutral problem, the ninja 400 (and other Kawasaki I think) have "Positive Neutral Finder", which basically when you are stopped from first you can only go into neutral, and once moving it's harder to find neutral so you it's more difficult to have false neutral shifts.

Beautiful red color. Love that candy apple red. I still like Kawasaki Green whenever possible but that red looks sharp!

Beautiful color

Went from an R1 to a fjr1300 to a ninja 400 and I do not regret it. I do mostly city driving now so it made sense

Love the red.

Fair Review Chase! You weighed it all out well. Good Job!

Nice video chase thank you for making the first rides

Out of all the research I’ve done, I think this bike is the perfect medium

Got my Ninja 400 in 'Passion Red'. Gorgeous looks, great exhaust noise and a pleasure to ride. I'm in the break-in period so not being too rough on it - but hope to do so soon!!!

You can adjust the friction zone using the screws on the clutch lever limiting the bowden. For more details: Ask Brian how to do it. ;-) In addition, the early engaging clutch might also be the cause why the gears are not switching smoothly and that neutral is hard to find. So no new lever needed but just a little bit of adjustment. =)

I can't wait to get mine.

Please do the mid-cc supersports after this beginner series. I just wanted to see you do a first ride on the new zx636 😅

I love my ninja 400. Feels so light on the mountains, easily changes direction in the transition curves. Gotta lose the 10lb exhaust though

I’m picking up my new Ninja 400 from the dealership in a few days. I’m so excited!

Beautiful bike..

After these first rides of the beginner bikes, you should test ride a Honda Rebel 500. They are also good for beginners and it's only a 500cc engine.

That was a well spent, 29 mins/54 secs. Great vid - cinematography/editing/commentary etc. Especially the highway chill speeds/passing ability/wheelie pops... Bike porn... Small displacement fans/converts? Imo it's chill-factor with fun, if you can avoid being utterly handicapped. Then: low cost, low insurance and economical all around.

Great video, I love the new 400 Thanks for posting.

Here in Jamaica these little 300cc bikes are considered GOLD! Top of the line bikes.

Great video bro!! I would like u to do a first ride on the Honda cbr500r of 2019. I would appreciate that

Had my choice between this and the r3. This would have been perfect if I had a 26” inseam and no right heel

Just bought one, keeps up with my 900cc cruiser and is incredibly comfortable to ride

Just got the 2020..Love your page....Havent rode mine yet...hopefully its fun

"We're doing 95 and can easily keep going." Me on the MSF course with a twitchy KTM Duke 200 afraid to go 20: -_-

nice video, please try the 2019 cbr 500r

Thank you for doing this video, honestly it feels like a complete opposite to yammin noob videos, this is going to be my first bike most definitely.

Gosh I'm in love with this red 😭😭

I know this is about the small cc sport bikes. But, a 2005 Ninja 500r has 60bhp with ~100cc more and can easily tote an extra body. Something to think about. also, 8/10

I bought this bike for my son, but I’ve ended up loving it and riding it a lot.

Nice job 👍🏻 Motorcycle videos are so much better when you have the riders camera, and a chase car camera. It definitely gives a better understanding of the bike. I am curious what camera the chase car uses...video quality is excellent. 👏🏼📹 I just picked up the blizzard white 2020 400...its a blast! 💯🏍🇺🇸

I started on a 2017 R3 and it was great. Ended up trading it last year for a 2018 R6. Don’t regret it as the R6 is one of my favorite bikes; having said that I just bought a 2019 R3 for the track. That are cheap and super fun at the track. I was actually looking at a ninja 400 or the RC390 but I got a sweat deal on the R3.

Wow, now I really like that one. About it being nimble, it makes since because my ZX14 is feels the same (what you described) considering it is pushing 600 lbs. Maybe the Kawi engineers actually know what they are doing 👍

a lil correction at 6:35 , Ninja 400 is actually lighter than Ninja 300 and R3 that might explain why its more maneuverable.. the reason why r3 feels more planted is due to its suspension and probably the body position r3 has a stiffer suspension and a lil bit more leaned over than n400 but n400 has better brakes.. Ps. Overall i think n400 would win in terms of comparing the bikes specially with the prices so close to eachother.. Suspension is way cheaper to upgrade than engine/power output BUT if you dont mind having less power and really wants to go based on looks i think the r3 would win. those usd forks and dash makes it look like an expensive lil bike ..

I really love this bike. I am hoping that they will update its forks and swing arms.

Great motorcycle

This engine need to replace the 300 in the Versys X

I thought im gonna say the red and black is not for the ninja, but then as the video went along it grew on me, i dont know if im gonna buy my ninja in green now or in this ❤️

I love my Honda 500-4 but I'm seriously thinking about stepping up to one of these

The filming in this video is amazing.

I tried looking for this video during the 2 week “ghosting” of the channel and was sad that I couldnt find it

Finally a bike review in your actual skill range

Adding some aftermarket parts to this bike really wakes it up! I added a Akropovic header pipe, LeoVince Slip on muffler, Aftermarket high flow air filter. Power Commander V with a full tune. Sounds so much louder and is quite a bit faster than stock. Highly recommended.

C2w keep up the reviews and video's would love to see you review the 2020 zx6r?

Ninja gang

Dang this vid had me trippin’. For a moment I was seriously considering getting a ninja 400 as a 2nd bike for commuting 😂

Cousin just bought a used ninja 300, I have a fz07 and my brother will be buying a ninja 400 pretty soon . I can't wait to ride the 400

I just bought a Honda grom my 1st bike can’t wait to level up to a ninja

I love this video I own a 2019 ninja h2 as well as a 2019 ninja 400 and they are both a blast. Kawisaki killed it with the 400 it is the bike for beginners that I believe they should never grow out of. Many a 600s have come down a back road with me and got nothing but tail lights on that ninja 400. Nimble great midrange high rpm power!

9:44 Full throttle from a red traffic light to green is always fun. Cool design, as was the 2008's.

So I just started riding and my first bike was the ninja 400 and I overall just loved riding I was comfortable with ir

Perfect review and exactly what I’m looking for. I have just passed my mod 2 here in the UK and am planning on an R3 for my first bike but have been looking at these also. Subbed

CHASE! did you hear about the new ZX 25R 4 cylinder!? please talk about it.

As someone who started on a Ninja 300, I felt that all it needed was a little more power, even with me being 6'2" and a bit north of 200. Might just drop back down and pick up a 400, especially since most of my riding consists of back roads.

I learned and owned an 03 gz250 for a few years after my senior year in HS but sold it couple years ago. I want to get back into riding so bad and so far nothing is comparable to the 400 in the lower class bracket it seems! Cheap and fast enough for thrill and safety but not too fast. STOKED

Can't wait for the RC390 first ride, I had that bike and upgraded to a Daytona 675R after watching your videos on that bike. I think you'll love the RC390. I also rode the Ninja 400, doing about 600 miles on one with my friend. She was the pillion for the first 300 of those miles and it will take a passenger no problem. I had a 2015 RC390 and her bike was a 2018 Ninja 400. The RC390 topped out at 111mph with just me on it and then it would bounce off the rev limiter. The Ninja 400 with her as a passenger we did 121 mph and it still had more to go. So it's got a better top speed if that matters to someone. You could fix the RC by changing out the gearing for sure. Last note, she still owns the Ninja 400 and she damn near killed me when I sold the RC390. She loved that bike over and above her 400. She described it as a much better handling bike and she felt more confident on it. She was a brand new rider, so that might be worth the point for the RC390.

Damn I'm torn between the r3 and ninja 400, I want some go but I don't want to sit up too high, plus I'm 6ft and I plan on tucking