Kawasaki could be planning to continue the retrovolution by launching another retro-inspired motorcycle. Reportedly the brand is working on a new Z400RS modern classic bike which is likely to make its debut next year. The new motorcycle will follow the design philosophy from the Z650RS and the Z900RS thanks to the rise in popularity in the modern-classic segment. The Kawasaki Z400RS will also bridge the gap between the entry-level Kawasaki bikes and the middle-weight segment, especially in developing markets like India.
Sources report that the new Kawasaki Z400RS will follow the design cues from the 1977 Z650 B1. The motorcycle will come with a rounded headlamp with LED lights, an elongated fuel tank and twin-pod instruments. The Z400RS will also get a straight bench seat with pleated upholstery, a sleek tail section and an LED taillamp on the rear. The bike is likely to get a midship exhaust, mid-set footpegs and a wide handlebar.
Powering the Kawasaki Z400RS could be a 399cc liquid-cooled parallel twin-cylinder engine. On the Ninja 400, the engine produces 49 PS of power and 38 Nm of torque in the international market. The engine comes with a 6-speed transmission and also an assist and slipper clutch. Kawasaki will offer 41mm telescopic forks on the front and a mono-shock on the rear. The brand will also offer dual-disc brakes on the front and single-disc on the rear.
Recently, patents of a Kawasaki motorcycle emerged on the internet. Speculations were that the new Kawasaki motorcycle would come with an in-line four-cylinder engine. However, the brand is likely to offer the 400cc four-cylinder engine only on a Ninja motorcycle in the near future.
Recently, Kawasaki introduced the new Z650RS in the Indian market. The brand has put a sticker price of INR 6.65 lakh ex-showroom on the motorcycle. Similarly, the Z400RS is also likely to make it to the Indian streets after debuting in the international market. However, it is important to note that the Kawasaki Ninja 400 was an expensive bike in India and was discontinued due to low sales.
Also Read: MY22 all-new Kawasaki Z650RS launched in India at INR 6.65 lakh