Kawasaki entered the modern-retro motorcycle market with the Z650RS a few years ago. A while later, we also got the Z650RS in the Indian market. Now, according to the latest reports, the Japanese company is working on a smaller version with a similar design language.
Similar to how the Z650RS uses the Z650 street naked motorcycle as its base, the new smaller model will likely use the Z400 as its base. When it arrives, the new Z400RS will take on Yamaha’s XSR300. The new Z400RS, like its bigger sibling, will have minimalistic styling. Hence, expect it to sport a modern-retro bodywork, circular LED headlight and twin-pod instrument cluster. We can also expect retro-themed colourways for the new model. Retro-themed colour schemes reminiscent of the past feed on the nostalgia of buyers and increase its appeal.
As for the engine, it will continue to use the same engine as the Z400. The Z400, which is essentially a naked version of the Ninja 400, uses a 399cc parallel-twin motor. However, Kawasaki will most likely tune the Z400RS differently. The different engine tune will mainly focus on the mid-range torque to suit the bike’s character.
Also, keeping with the theme of the motorcycle, it won’t get a lot of features. Kawasaki will give it just about enough of them. Expect Kawasaki to unveil the bike before the end of this year. However, an Indian launch is unlikely. The reason for this could be that Kawasaki may not be able to price it competitively. Earlier, Kawasaki priced the Ninja 400 too close to the Z650 and Ninja 650. Hence, people would rather look for other options or get the bigger 650cc twins. Going by the Ninja 400 and Z400’s price, expect the Z400RS to cost upwards of INR 4.5 lakh ex-showroom.
Also Read: 2022 Kawasaki Ninja 300 Vs. KTM 390 Adventure – Price & Specification Comparison