Yes, been riding all my life. I'm 55 years old. I bought this z400 about 5 months ago and I'm not the least bit disappointed. I would buy it again tomorrow. It's a great little bike.
@@kermit8619 Interesting.... I'm 63 and considering the Z400, but thought it may be a bike for youngsters only. The CB300R looks a bit more conservative, but after test riding the Kawasaki I love the twin.
@@kermit8619 The Suzuki looks good, but the Z400 is made where I live in Thailand, so it's half the price. Z650 also made here, but light weight is good in the heat and city traffic.
I really enjoy your reviews! No wasting time with cut scenes, you get straight to the point, you’re unbiased and easy to hear. The scenery is amazing and you keep the format the same for all your videos. I really hope one day you start uploading again soon. Thanks and take care!
Living in vietnam here. Had a Honda winner 150 (fully modified to 200cc , dyno at 24 whp) and must say this bike is insane. I plan to buy it next month.
Great review! I am going to the local Kawa dealer and ordering one on Saturday, already test ridden it for a few hours at a different dealer ( took advantage of the demo days :P ) I am 27 years old and only have an A2 license and I see no reason to upgrade as I only cruise around doing the speed limit and just enjoying the ride, this 400cc machine has more than enough grunt to do that! Already have new mirrors and R&G tail tidy ready and going to order the new Mivv exhaust ( Mivv GP Pro ) that is road legal here in Europe, for some extra sound and looks. This summer is going to be awesome! And as you said, this bike does look very good.
Got a Z400 in July 2019 . I now have 41,500 KM on it and it run A1 . Started to use Amsoil 10W40 after the break-in . Very happy with the little bike .
Nice video. I've always thought of Kawi as lb4lb the hardest hitter of the big four and IMO this bike exemplifies that when you compare it with the MT-03 and CB500F. Built from the ground up with a new frame and engine it's all buff no fluff and with killer looks to boot - love it (I'd even take the cluster over any fancy TFT!) Again cheers for the great review, I'm sure this channel would take off if you ever do more of the same.
Great video! I live in the Chicago Suburbs and this is my third summer riding. I'm 27, 5'11" 175lbs and I just bought this motorcycle and love it! I have been driving a Kymco K-Pipe 125cc (which is such an amazing little bike and the absolute perfect starter bike for ANYONE). I still really enjoy owning both but I need to sell the Kymco now to make up for $$ for the Z400 which I bought two weeks ago. What an amazing, fast and fun motorcycle. Extremely 'flick-able'. My experiences with it so far have been very similar; in fact, I liked how you used the word cozy for the seat. Some other RU-vidrs have said it squishes and cramps them but I kind of immediately decided to be more one with the bike and hug the tank a little more and it feels great. I have only stalled it once so far and when it happened I ALMOST dropped it too at the stop light. I would bet the only reason I didn't drop it (and it was heavy) was because I dropped my Kymco twice and my body & brain understood how to save the Z400 as it was falling. Also a couple of years ago I did a wheelie on my K-Pipe, but it wasn't on purpose, and it scared the hell outta me. The other day when I was on the Z400 i went "too fast" and I straight-armed it and got a little freaked out. Again, If the Z400 was my first experience with all of that, I would have dropped it and hurt myself probably. While I have not ridden anything more than this 400 I think it would be a great bike for people to commute on and have a great time. Side note: that picture at 4:27 is so good!
Grew up in Schaumburg by Woodfield Mall and, man, after leaving Illinois I cringe at the thought of driving on Chicago's horrifically potholed roads... Godspeed, man.
Durchii ugh... they’re everywhere. Not to mention all the construction too. I’m in the Oak Brook Mall area and it’s rough. My dad argues Illinois should have a “new tires cost” added to our state refund every four years. Like crook county would ever do such a thing though.
I currently have the Z125, and I am enjoying it. I would like something with a little bit more power so I don’t have to worry about having trouble getting up to speed...... definitely gonna go see if this is right for me......
Whenever I watch any of these road tests on most new bikes the only thing I can think of is that I'd have to replace those weird pointy mirrors immediately. Some things (like mirrors) are too important to be designed for looks instead of function. Other than that , this is a great bike and I might have chosen it over my CB500 if it had been available in 2016.
Nice review! I rode the 650 and 400 back to back and was surprised that i found the 400 much more fun. I particularly liked the chassis, it corners as if on rails, and the willing engine that is surprisingly gutsy for a 400 twin. Like you i didn't like the clocks, i notice the new Z500 clocks are much improved. The one thing you didn't mention was the exhaust, I'm a tall guy with big feet and found my heel on my right foot constantly hitting the exhaust, if it was me I'd simply have to have a different can to make it rideable. If the price hasn't gone crazy on the z500 and the chassis is still as good, it's going to be a gem.
Crossing my fingers for a light weight, simple, KLR 400. With a big tank, a big seat to take a pillion, 21/18 inch wheels, and a rack to fit a topbox. I also like the versys 300 a lot but I need something to abuse offroad too.
Dacht eerst dat ik naar een engelsman aan het kijken was totdat ik de omgeving zag hahaha.Ik ga denk ik deze motor halen heb net mijn A2 gehaald dus dankje voor deze goede review!
What you said about this motor and it's torque has convinced me to wait for a Versys x 400 and NOT get the 300 version. I would also prefer these cast wheels on a Versys x 400 instead of spokes. I like the Versys speedo and tach much better than this one. Kawasaki should round off the sharp edges on the mirrors. If they can knock off a few pounds on a Versys 400 that would be good too!
I’m from Texas and in taking my Motorcycle Safety Course Monday and i want to buy the z400 as my first bike. I went to the dealership to sit on it and lean it from side to side to see if i felt comfortable. I wanted the Honda grom, but i wanted something a little little faster incase i wanted to go a bit faster so what are your thoughts ?
I bought a Z400 last week and it may well be the most fun bike I've ever owned and I've owned a number of bikes over the years, most recently a Speed Triple. I am an experienced rider that is getting older and wanted a light, maneuverable bike that had more power than the 300's offer and this bike delivers on all counts. If you are on the fence about buying a Z400, buy it! You will not be disappointed. Kawasaki hit it out of the park with this bike.
@Redrum Z400 vs. Ninja was no decision for me. The two bikes are exactly the same except handlebars and bodywork. I didn't want the bodywork because it raises the insurance rate and I like the look of a naked bike. Also, I prefer the higher, and slightly wider bars of the Z400 and the more upright riding position they provide.
Do you recommend this for a first bike? I’m not into pure sports Bike (speed, learning forward, foot pegs set far back) and actually have looked into adventure or cruisers.
@@grumpysquid The Z400 is an excellent first bike for several reasons: It's light (364 lbs.), and has a low seat height so it's very easy to maneuver at parking lot speeds or out on the road. It has good power so you won't outgrow it in one season but the fueling is very well dialed-in so the power is easy to modulate (no twitchy, throttle response). Insurance and maintenance costs are low (compared to most other bikes), and best of all, it's insanely fun to ride! You won't get bored with this bike as your riding skills increase. I am an experienced rider that has owned bigger more powerful bikes and none of them beats the Z400 for having fun on a twisty stretch of road. It is manufactured by one of the "Big Four" Japanese motorcycle manufacturers so it should be very reliable and have a long service life. It is a lot of bike and performance for the dollars spent. The downside(s)? Very tall riders may find the bike too small. The Z400 is not tiny but it is a compact bike. I'm 5'11" with a 32" inseam and I wouldn't want the bike's foot pegs any higher. This bike is probably not suited for heavy riders either (220 lbs. +). The Z400 is not a touring bike and after an hour in the seat, I'm ready to stretch my legs and give my butt a few minutes break but that's more likely due to my age than the seat being uncomfortable. Also, this bike is not suitable for a passenger but I always ride one up anyway. And finally, some may not like the style of the bike. I'm not a huge fan of the way the bike looks (although I don't think it's ugly), but I do wish it had more of an old school look, as in a round headlight and more conventional lines. However, I've always believed that function is far more important than form and I'm not looking at the bike while I'm riding it, so for me, looks are a non issue. I don't think anyone could go wrong buying a Z400 for a first bike. Good luck on your search and let me know what you end up with. Cheers!
RedRoo13 wow amazing write up! Practical as well, as I prefer to stretch out ownership as long as possible and not fix what isn’t broken. I’m 5’8/175 lb. I’m not sold on the styling, which is a low point for me. In one review it mentioned your groin being cramped against the fuel tank. Was that your experience? How sensitive or tough is the clutch? Is ABS standard? I would actually prefer shorter gearing and higher revs for that race-feel. Any feedback appreciated! Very grateful for what you shared.
Nice review , I was very tempted to buy verseys x300 after your review. I opted for this bike instead with no regrets. I have a hyper naked with high horsepower but I really enjoy the fun of a little hp motorcycle segment. What did you buy now that you sold the x300? 🤔
Thanks! I sold both my Thruxton R and Versys for a Triumph scrambler 1200XE. Great styling, comfortabele daily bike and good for some decent offroading in the weekends. Love it. But I do miss the lightness and agility of the small displacement bikes.
You are correct as a 5ft 3 woman I love this bike, I have a full license but it has every thing I want. I not sure I would ever sell it, I would just get another bike. It is stable, smooth, and light.
Update! I have now had this bike for 3 years and still love it. I have since bought two more bikes 😅 so I was correct, what ever happens this bike is a keeper. I have updated the rear suspension with an Ohlins to suit my weight, I am very light and the standard shock could not be adjusted. Replaced the tyres with Michelin Road 6 which made the biggest difference to how the bike handles. Had a custom seat made and added ASV leavers. I have done over 7000 miles on it and it has never let me down.
Looking for my first bike and have been drawn to the Z400 for price and looks. This might be the 4th review I’ve watched on RU-vid and each one was very positive for overall riding experience. Wingless - really excellent review! Your tone, pace of speaking and commentary were spot on for me. The views of the town & countryside were beautiful - luck you for such a pretty area to ride. New subscriber.
Thank you for this fantastic test and reaction, only a question, what do you think about Z400 compered with her sisters like duke 390 and mt-03 from yamaha?
Mt is comparable but I do think the Z is a more mature bike. The Duke I still need to ride so no first hand experience but as a single cilinder it will have more grunt and also more vibration. For longer travels the Z will be more comfortable. For city driving the grunt of the Duke will be fun
Depends on what you plan to do with it. The z4000 will not disappoint you and is a great starterbike with a lot of tricks up its sleeve. The 650 is more relaxed on longer trips and if you plan to do a lot of motorway miles. Both are fine for a beginners. The z400 is friendlier if you are of short stature. Finally, z400 is more bang for the buck.
Having a hard time choosing between the Duke390 and Z400. I live in the Philippines and it gets really hot in here and I do not know which one should I get between these two. I will be using the bike mainly for commuting and once in a while will be using it in the twisties. Which would u recommend for me?
I don't have a lot of experience with the Duke. The z400 will not disappoint. The Duke has more low grunt / fun at low speeds and hills. The z will offer a bit smoother ride. Both are excellent motorcycles.
Yes. Many brands offer tank bags, top cases and saddle bags for this bike and due to the good economy and comfortable position it is an excellent tour bike. That said, you will lack protection for the elements (not a showstopper for me) and if you want to tour just on highways and make long days and long miles there are better bikes suited to that mission.
How the hell do you only have 270 Subs?!?! Im si confused... I loved the video and i like your personality and your energy! Im subbed, keep going! The z400 Will probably be my first bike Also, do YOU Think that the bike Will be okay for me, i am 6 foot 2, 190lbs, Can i fit?
Wingless Oracle tbh some riding and rambling about bike news or beginner bikes, super bikes and Best gear, videos would be cool! They only require you to jump on the bike and talk to us a bit haha It would be cool to see a series about whats new ik the bike world. And even you just doing something in the the direction of what ‘Royal Jordanian’ is doing with his “daily observations” series
Hi, I'm actually looking for a beginners bike, the Kawasaki z400 caught my attention right as it came out. It costs around 5600 euros where I live, although its on sale (about 6300 normal price). Any other naked bikes recommended for me? I wont only be driving in the cities, sometimes longer rides for up to 2-3 hours. Any recommendations up to 35kW would be nice, since imma have A2. Thanks! Oh yeah, one thats also comfortable for a passenger!
Depends on your budget. For a naked for more longer trips and 2 up riding I would definitely take a look at the yamaha mt07 and honda cb650r. For more in the class of the z400 (great option by the way) take a look at the yamaha mt03 and Honda cb300r I would stay away from the KTM duke 390 if you plan 2up and longer rides. It a great bule but the single piston engine will start to bother you. Personally I think the z4 delivers the best allroad bike for the price at the moment. Just go to the dealer and ride a few and you will pivot towards one for sure. Good luck with your choice.
nice video, I'm a beginner motorcyclist, am small 166cm so which bike of this equation is right for me? I drive daily to work in the city and also the highway and sometimes during a weekend round of recreational so, which one? Ninja 400 of Ninja 300 of z440/300 of Yamaha MT 03???? I also live in the Netherlands
For more all-round I reckon the z is more suited than the Ninja but that is personal preference to riding position and if you like the more sporty feel of the Ninja. In all cases the 400 engine is more versatile than the 300. MT 03 I haven't ridden but review are very positive.
I think the standard seat will be cramped for you. I am 180cm and found it perfect but tight. You might try a higher seat that Kawasaki offers but don't recommend the standard version for you.
I have to admit I have not ridden that bike so I cannot say how it rides and feels but looking at the specs, the z400 has 5 hp and nm less than the 500 but is a few kgs lighter so they don't differ that much on paper.
Hard choice. Both great bikes. Personally I think the z400 is more bike 4 the buck but I guess it really depends on your mission, what you want to do with it. I also suggest riding both bikes. Riding a bike is 50 percent emotion and after riding both you will know which one you prefer. Good luck
I did not get the chance to rude 2up but my guess is 'okay' so not good and not bad. I ride 2up on the versys and power will not be a restriction for legal speeds. Seating might be less comfortable as there is not much room and the pillon will stop the rider from having that extra room for moving around on longer trips. So I think it will be doable but not the best bike for 2up long trips.
ps I'm between this and Versys x300 as the first bike BUT I'd love to have this for a while and not have to change it after 2 years after wanting more so, would the z400 be better? I'm most gonna do some light commuting but when I ride it I'm gonna go for some longer trips like 260 miles weekends and so. Do you prefer the Versys seat for longer trips and the upright position or do you like this more overall? All the best mate!
Looking at English streets gives me anxiety, I like the tiled brick look but there are no side barriers and houses are right on the street. I wouldn’t like riding there haha
I would not say better. It shares most components but laks a fairing so less protection from wind and rain. The seating position is more relaxed. So for touring and city use I would choose the z. For track and fast twisty road the Ninja is better.
Same bike minus the fairings and different riding position. If you like laying all over your gas tank everywhere you go get the Ninja . If you like relaxed upright riding position that feels a whole bunch better get the Z
The performance package seems silly to me but to each of it's own. I'd prefer to install a windscreen, crash Guard/bar, a frame slider crash protector and bags for groceries, huehue. But first I must take the license and I've heard that here in Netherlands it's pretty hard. Well, I'll do my best.
I second the motion! Directly compare Honda 500 to Kawasaki 300 & 400 bikes and conclude what is the nearest to the ideal regarding weight, size, cruising highway speed and adequate grunt power between these three. PS: Nederlander countryside very nice!
I must disagree with you. This is an amazing beginner bike (I say this having picked one up as my first bike 2 months ago and absolutely in love with it!)
Congrats with your new bike! I agree. As mentioned in the review. It is a great bike for beginners. My point was that is is not only a beginners bike but much more.
yes it is. Good luck with having a heavy big expensive liter bike and only ever using 20% of it's power. If you say you're using it to it's full potential, you and I both know you are lying lmao.
Banarie Cristian well im using waaay more of its power than the z400 has to offer So your argument is totally useless and yes im using its full power while accelerating, another reason why your argument is senseless But people will still write down that nonsense
I think that depends on what you use the bike for and the type of roads you ride. As a commuter or urban bike i feel lighter bikes have some advantages over bigger bikes. I love the fun and nimbleness of smaller bikes and the fact you have to work them hard but I also like the raw power and sound of a liter bike and the lazy eide they can offer.
Heerlijk, geen Nederlands accent! :) Nederlands is wel je moederstaal of tweetalig opgevoed? Z400 is een mooie beginnersmotor en inderdaad ook geschikt voor ervaren rijders. Ik heb er veel plezier op gehad. Een koopje voor maar 6000 euro.
@@winglessoracle2967 Het heeft z'n vruchten afgeworpen. :) Al doen de jongere generaties de uitspraak een stuk beter dan velen van mijn generatie (ik ben van 1981). Maar veel mensen geven er ook geen f*ck om hoe de uitspraak is.
Agree across the board. That terrible, terrible dash is very off-putting. I'm shopping now and I'd probably have bought one weeks ago if the dash weren't so atrocious. Also the mirrors are perfect for looking at your elbows, not much else. I'm almost certainly going to buy one anyway, I'll just live with the dash and I'll replace the mirrors ASAP.
