Entry level sportsbikes are not just 200-250cc anymore. Every brand is expanding their product portfolio in this segment, and even bumping up the engine capacity. Kawasaki currently has the Z250 on offer, but this bike is not making the cut anymore especially due to its high asking price, and also, the lower performance numbers.
Now, reports suggest that Kawasaki has started working on a new Z400 motorcycle. Codenamed as the ER400DK, this will be a naked street sportsbike which when launched will rival the likes of KTM Duke 390 & BMW G310R. Leaked documents from California Air Resource Board (CARB) have revealed this news.
As the name suggests, we can safely assume that the Z400 will be based on the new Ninja 400. However, it will be design as a street bike with sharp and edgy styling typical of the Kawasaki Z series. Obviously we features such as LED headlamps, LED tail lamps, digital speedo console, ABS, rear monoshock and the likes will be on offer.
The Ninja 400 is powered by a 4-stroke, parallel-twin, 399cc, liquid-cooled motor producing 49 PS of power @ 10000 RPM and 38 Nm of torque @ 8000 RPM. If these numbers remain unchanged, the Kawasaki Z400 will beat the KTM Duke 390 & the BMW G310R hands down. However, expect the gearing to be tweaked to suit the urban jungle unlike the Ninja 400 which is more performance biased.
Now the question is, will this bike be showcased in 2018 and go on sale in 2019? When will it eventually hit the Indian streets? And most importantly, will it be priced competitively?