OVERVIEW
Performance and Engine
The ZX-4R’s 399cc DOHC, 16-valve inline-four engine makes 57 kW (77 PS) at 14,500 rpm, and Ram Air increases this to 58.7 kW (80 PS), making it the most powerful in its class. It delivers a peak torque of 39 Nm at 13,000 rpm, giving a strong pull for city rides and a thrilling sound at high revs for track days. The engine revs quickly, responds directly to the throttle, and the 3-mode KTRC traction control helps riders accelerate confidently in different conditions.
The 6-speed return-shift gearbox delivers power smoothly and works with a wet multi-disc assist and slipper clutch, which makes the lever easier to use and prevents rear-wheel hopping during hard downshifts. The primary reduction ratio is 2.029 (69/34), and the final drive uses a sealed chain at 3.429 (48/14), allowing for precise gear changes that match the engine’s high-revving style. The gear ratios—1st: 2.929, 2nd: 2.056, 3rd: 1.619, 4th: 1.333, 5th: 1.154, 6th: 1.037—are set up for strong performance in both city and highway riding.
The Ninja ZX-4R can reach a top speed of about 200 kmph, according to Indian motorcycle experts, thanks to its aerodynamic design and high-revving engine. In real-world Indian conditions, riders can hit this speed on open roads, and some users have even reported reaching up to 230 kmph in perfect situations. This makes the ZX-4R a top choice for speed lovers in its segment.
Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R has an ARAI-certified fuel efficiency of about 19.6 kmpl, with a test fuel consumption of 5.1 litres per 100 km. It meets BS6 Phase 2 standards and comes with an Economical Riding Indicator to help riders use the throttle efficiently. With its 15-litre tank, the bike can go over 290 km on a full tank.
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R owners in India usually get about 19 kmpl in real-world riding. Some report as low as 14 kmpl in heavy city traffic, while steady highway cruising can give 23-25 kmpl. In mixed conditions, most riders see 17-18 kmpl, since the high-revving engine uses more fuel. Careful riding can get up to 21 kmpl.
Features and Technology
- Inline-four engine:Liquid-cooled, 399cc DOHC 16-valve unit with 57 kW (77 PS) power at 14,500 rpm (58.7 kW with Ram Air), 39 Nm torque at 13,000 rpm, redline over 15,000 rpm for thrilling high-rpm wail and quick-revving response suited to city and track use in India.
- Ram Air intake:Centrally positioned with side duct inspired by Ninja H2, routing air efficiently to the airbox for stellar performance, enhanced intake sound, and aggressive ZX-series styling visible on Indian roads.
- Riding modes: Four integrated modes (Sport, Road, Rain, Rider manual) linking KTRC traction control and power modes for easy adaptation to varied Indian conditions like wet monsoons or dry highways
- 3-mode KTRC: Kawasaki Traction Control with Mode 1 for dry grip maximising corner acceleration, Mode 2 for sportier intervention, Mode 3 for slippery wet roads, ensuring stability during aggressive riding.
- TFT instrumentation: 4.3-inch all-digital colour display with Normal and Circuit modes showing gear, lap times, and high-rpm data prominently for track days at Indian circuits like Buddh or street use.
- Smartphone connectivity: Bluetooth via RIDEOLOGY THE APP for viewing odometer, fuel gauge, riding logs (GPS route, rpm, gear), call notices, and customising settings like units or rider aids wirelessly.
- Assist & Slipper Clutch: Wet multi-disc with racing-derived cams reducing lever effort and back-torque during quick downshifts, preventing wheel hop on twisty Indian ghat roads.
- Electronic throttle valves: ECU-controlled for precise fuel/air delivery, smooth response, reduced emissions (BS6 compliant), and integration with KTRC for optimal power in Indian traffic.
- Trellis frame: High-tensile steel designed via dynamic rigidity analysis, with WorldSBK ZX-10RR-inspired dimensions (caster, CoG) for nimble supersport handling on Indian streets.
- Suspension setup: 37mm inverted SFF-BP front fork (120mm travel) for track/street balance; Horizontal Back-link rear shock (112mm travel, spring preload adjustable) aiding mass centralisation and heat isolation.
- Braking system: Dual 290mm front semi-floating discs with radial-mount monobloc 4-piston callipers; single 220mm rear disc with single-piston calliper; ABS for stable stops on varied Indian surfaces.
- LED lighting: Twin headlights, ZX-10R-inspired taillight, and a full LED setup for superior visibility on Indian night rides or in foggy conditions.
- Ergonomics: Aggressive yet relaxed forward-leaning position, slim fuel tank (15L capacity), firm seat (800mm height) for weight shift in sport riding and comfort on long Indian tours.
- Economical Riding Indicator: ECO mark on TFT display promotes fuel-efficient throttle/gear use, helping extend range in fuel-conscious Indian riding scenarios.
- Tyres and dimensions: 120/70-ZR17 front, 160/60-ZR17 rear; 1990x765x1110mm size, 1380mm wheelbase, 135mm ground clearance; ideal for Indian roads, with a 189kg kerb weight.
Build Quality
Kawasaki uses a high-tensile steel trellis frame for the ZX-4R, designed with dynamic rigidity analysis and inspired by the WorldSBK ZX-10RR. This gives the bike strong torsional rigidity while keeping it light at 189 kg, making it durable for India’s varied road conditions.
The ZX-4R’s premium build shows in details like its radial-mount monobloc brake callipers, inverted front forks, and smooth bodywork panels. Indian riders on forums say there are no rattles or quality problems, even after thousands of kilometres. The bike’s robust construction, including heat-isolated rear suspension and a sealed chain, helps it perform reliably over time in India’s humid, dusty conditions, as owners have confirmed.
Handling
The ZX-4R’s compact chassis, with a 1380 mm wheelbase, 97 mm rake, and low centre of gravity, gives it sharp handling. This design, based on Kawasaki’s supersport heritage, makes the bike easy to turn in tight corners and stable at high speeds on Indian highways.
Riders say the ZX-4R feels stable in winding roads near Bangalore or Mumbai, with its 120/70-17 front and 160/60-17 rear tyres giving good grip even on rough surfaces. The adjustable rear preload lets riders set up the bike to their liking. Owners call it nimble but steady, handling quick turns in city traffic or mountain roads without feeling nervous.
Comfort
Ergonomics feature a forward-leaning yet relaxed sport position with a slim 15L fuel tank for good leg-tank contact, 800 mm seat height, and firm cushioning that settles in for comfort over long rides, accommodating Indian riders from 5’6″ to taller frames without excessive wrist strain. The wide rider seat allows weight shifting for track or cornering.
The pillion seat works for short two-person trips on highways. Still, most users say it’s better for solo touring, especially on long rides over 400 km. The suspension, with 37 mm SFF-BP inverted forks (120 mm travel) in front and a horizontal back-link rear shock (112 mm travel, preload adjustable), handles potholes well and balances a sporty feel with comfort for all-day riding in Indian conditions, such as monsoons or rough rural roads.
Styling
The Ninja ZX-4R has bold, aggressive styling that matches its status as the most powerful 400cc bike. It features sharp split LED twin headlights under a clear visor, giving it a striking front look. Large aerodynamic fairings enhance high-speed stability, and ZX-series touches like the central Ram Air intake with H2-style side ducts add both style and function.
The ZX-4R’s smooth bodywork leads to a compact tail with a ZX-10R-style LED taillight, giving it a bold look that stands out on Indian roads, whether in city traffic or on the highway. The slim fuel tank helps riders feel connected to the bike, and its supersport shape—1990 mm long, 765 mm wide—offers a track-ready look without being bulky. Indian reviewers praise its strong presence and the unique sound from its exhaust.
Colour Options and Variants
Kawasaki offers the ZX-4R in India exclusively in one single colour.
- Metallic Spark Black
Metallic Spark Black is a premium colour with a sparkling effect that highlights the bike’s sharp lines and gives it a stylish, understated look. This single colour stands out from the brighter ZX-4RR’s triple-tone design, offering a versatile black finish that hides dirt in dusty or rainy Indian weather. The carbon-like graphics and green accents also show off Kawasaki’s brand identity.
In India, the Ninja ZX-4R comes in just one variant: the standard model with the 399cc inline-four engine, but no quickshifter or upgraded suspension. This base version still has key supersport features like a TFT display, riding modes, and ABS, making it an easy way to join Kawasaki’s 400cc lineup without the extras of SE or RR models.
Value for Money and Pricing
Kawasaki prices the Ninja ZX-4R at ₹ 9,40,000 ex-showroom across India, with only one variant in Metallic Spark Black. The ZX-4R offers excellent value in the 400cc segment, thanks to its 77 PS inline-four engine, TFT display, riding modes, and WorldSBK-inspired chassis. Even without a quickshifter, it stands out from parallel-twin rivals for its exciting performance and electronics.
Owners like the ZX-4R’s real-world mileage of 21-25 kmpl, its top speed of up to 230 kmph, and its reliable build. Many say these features make the higher price worth it, calling it a “good machine” for those moving up to a supersport bike. Its track-ready handling, substantial resale value, and unique four-cylinder sound give it long-term appeal over other 400cc bikes, with reviews also noting easy maintenance and enjoyable handling.
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R competitors in India primarily span 300-500cc performance faired bikes and premium supersports, offering varied powertrains at different price points.
- KTM RC 390
- Aprilia RS 457
- QJ Motor SRK 400
- Triumph Daytona 660
- Honda CBR650R
