Which motorcycle is the favorite of all beginners who are partial to sports motorcycles. Of course, Kawasaki ZZR 400! Strictly speaking, this is not a sportbike, but a sport-tourist, but who cares? The main thing is that it is beautiful, big and fast enough to take off at a speed sufficient to enter low-Earth orbit. At least that’s what it seems to novice motorcyclists, who are the main target audience for this model. But this motorcycle is really quite good, which, combined with an affordable price on the secondary market, makes it very popular to this day.
History of changes
The model has not undergone any changes in principle.
This is natural, given that the release lasted about a year. For such a bike this is not a minus, because it is already good enough. The car was originally made to match the examples of a bygone era, and it is completely unclear what could be added or changed here.
Such motorcycles should ideally be made immediately, and any additions in the future often indicate that some points were overlooked.
Various upgrades do not make such a bike any better, but only spoil it, depriving it of its uniqueness and historicity in design.
Main modifications of the Kawasaki ZXR400:
Kawasaki ZXR400 (ZX400H, ZX400L) – regular version.
Kawasaki ZXR400R (ZX400J, ZX400M) – “racing” version. Features a passenger seat plug, fully adjustable suspension, different camshafts (higher cams) and flat choke (FCR) carburetors (Keihin FVKD). Another special feature of the Kawasaki ZXR 400 is the fact that it was available not only in Japan, but was also supplied to European countries. Export modifications produced up to 65 hp. power. Based on the Kawasaki ZXR 400 engine, the Kawasaki Xanthus 400 naked bike was created.
1999 was the last year of production of the model, after which it was finally removed from the Kawasaki production line. However, the Kawasaki ZXR400 has gained great popularity not only in Japan, but also in some countries around the world. Being the most powerful in its class and more race-like, the ZXR400 stands out from similar models from other Japanese manufacturers.
Video
Touring enduro Kawasaki KLE 400
, like other 400s, was produced only for the Japanese domestic market, in parallel with the 500 cc European version. However, on the roads of the countries of the ex-USSR it is the 400 cc version that is more often found, since the main flow of used motorcycles to Russia comes from Japan. The KLE 400 was produced from 1991 to 2001, and among Russian-speaking bikers it received the affectionate nickname “stick”. Being a direct competitor to the super popular Honda Transalp 400, this bike has not gained the same popularity among Russian motorcyclists, but some consider the Kawasaki KLE 400 as a real alternative to the Honda. Quite similar in characteristics, these motorcycles, however, are noticeably different from each other. The devil, as they say, is in the details, and the first thing that comes to mind after riding both these bikes is their completely different character. Equipped with a V-twin, the Transalp is distinguished by long gears and excellent traction from the bottom, while the Kawasaki KLE 400 has a high-revving engine and short gears. Of course, you can’t write this down as a disadvantage, it’s just a feature, nothing more. The liquid-cooled in-line twin, inherited from the KLE 400 from the Kawasaki EX-4, produces 42 horsepower and 33 nm of torque, with peak power and peak torque occurring at 9 and 8 thousand rpm, respectively. All gears of the 6-speed gearbox, except the last one, are quite short, which forces you to switch them frequently in city driving, but partially offsets the clearly insufficient traction in the lower rev range. If you spin the engine to optimal speed, its dynamics no longer seem sluggish.
Being a typical representative of its class, the Kawasaki KLE 400 has good wind protection, energy-intensive suspensions and a good range without refueling. It is capable of accelerating to 160 kilometers per hour, however, in this mode its 15-liter gas tank will be drained dry hundreds of times in one and a half kilometers. The optimal cruising speed for this motorcycle is within 120 km/h; if you go faster, fuel consumption begins to increase and dynamics begin to disappear. However, it would be naive, perhaps, to expect more from a 400 cc touring enduro. Despite belonging to the “four hundred” class, the Kawasaki KLE 400 is distinguished by its rather large dimensions and noticeable seat height, which is 84 centimeters. Touring enduros, however, have always been “motorcycles for long-legged people” due to their long-travel suspensions and high ground clearance. But the KLE 400 weighs quite modestly - the dry weight of the motorcycle is only 175 kilograms, that is, less than some classic road bikes of the same cubic capacity and the same years of production, for example, the Yamaha XJR 400.
Produced for ten years without any significant changes, the Kawasaki KLE 400 still remains relevant. Without claiming to be an ultra-modern motorcycle, at the time of its launch into the series, it was and remains an entry-level bike, intended for beginner motorcyclists. And reliability, according to reviews from KLE 400 owners, is not bad, however, due to the advanced age of most copies, you need to choose a motorcycle very pickily and carefully. The disadvantages of the Kawasaki KLE 400 include the insufficiently good standard wind protection - the wind deflector stops coping with its duties after 100 km/h, and many people call the rear shock absorber too soft. The first is “treated” by installing a higher windshield, the second is by tightening the shock absorber to the stiffest position. Also, due to the short front fender, when traveling through mud, the radiator is easily clogged with dirt, which can lead to overheating of the engine, but installing a mudguard easily eliminates this problem. Otherwise, the KLE 400 is an unpretentious and fairly reliable motorcycle, and also inexpensive.
Pros and cons of "Zizer".
Advantages of the model:
- Affordable price on the secondary market.
- Balanced characteristics.
- Inexpensive maintenance, and spare parts are usually in stock.
- Capacious gas tank, comfortable fit and good wind protection.
Disadvantages of the model:
- High fuel consumption when driving at speeds above 120-130 km/h.
- Frequently occurring problems with the gearbox, expressed in the spontaneous “flying out” second gear.
- Slightly outdated design.
Video
Kawasaki ZRX 400
- a fairly typical representative of its class. This 400 cc classic motorcycle was produced from 1993 to 2008, staying on the assembly line for fifteen years and undergoing some external restyling, called the ZRX 400 II. As a fighter in the highly competitive 400cc motorcycle ring, the ZRX 400 was good enough to last that long. However, neither from an aesthetic nor from a technical point of view, the Kawasaki ZRX 400 is nothing outstanding. The most common lightweight road bike. built using long-proven and proven technologies. But being new, it was cheaper than, for example, the Honda CB400, which was one of the reasons for its popularity. However, this does not make the ZRX 400 worse - on the contrary, it is a balanced city motorcycle, light and comfortable.
The engine of this city dweller is a liquid-cooled inline-four, with four valves per cylinder capable of delivering 53 horsepower at peak power. The Kawasaki ZRX 400 engine is powered by four Keihin carburetors, and torque is transmitted to the rear wheel via a chain. The gearbox has six stages, which sets the ZRX 400 apart from other 400 cc classics - sixth gear helps save fuel when traveling on the highway. Kawasaki ZRX400 Almost everything else about this motorcycle, however, is made without any noticeable pros or cons. The frame is steel, tubular. The suspension is also a standard of standards, with a telescopic fork at the front and two shock absorbers at the rear. By the way, the Kawasaki ZRX 400 suspension is quite stiff, which you can fully experience if you drive onto bad asphalt, but thanks to them the motorcycle handles well. The ZRX 400 is capable of quickly changing lanes even at decent speeds. The maximum speed, by the way, is 180 kilometers per hour, however, the small standard windshield that was installed on the pre-restyling version of the motorcycle will no longer be of any use at such a speed.
The brakes deserve a mention. The Kawasaki ZRX 400 boasts three disc brakes, with 6-piston calipers on the front discs and 2-piston calipers on the rear discs. Needless to say, armed with this, the ZRX400 stops dead in its tracks? No other classic of this cubic capacity and this price segment can boast of this. The gas tank volume is sixteen liters. AI-92 also agrees to consume a motorcycle, destroying an average of 6 liters per hundred kilometers. Restyling carried out in the 2000s had virtually no effect on the motorcycle. The engine remained the same, as did the chassis and transmission. The changes affected mainly the appearance of the Kawasaki ZRX 400 - the old-fashioned square headlight hidden in the fairing was replaced with a classic round one, which is why the motorcycle began to look completely different. Of course, there are plenty of 400cc motorcycles on sale at any time of the year, which beginners are so keen on. But the Kawasaki ZRX 400 has its advantages - excellent brakes, for example, and a six-speed gearbox. So if you are looking for a “400” for yourself, don’t pass by and check out this motorcycle.
ZZR 400 and ZZR 400 2, what is the difference?
The dashboard of older models did not have a fuel level sensor.
During its 27 years of production, the ZZR 400 experienced only one generation change. In 1993, the Japanese government revised laws regarding restrictions on motorcycles. In the second half of that year, Kawasaki released the second generation ZZR 400 and ZZR 600 .
Initially, restyling was planned, but the color scheme for the model changed every few months. There were a lot of differences, so the release of a new generation was announced.
94 years old.
He is well preserved for his age, and he is soon 25 years old.
Our editorial '94 ZZR 400. This is the owner's first motorcycle. He already wants something more powerful.
The ZZR 400 has 2 series:
- the power plant was cut from 58 to 53 hp;
- the headlight began to shine constantly when the ignition was on;
- the gas tank was increased by 1 liter, to 17 ;
- weight increased by 2 kg and amounted to 192 kg;
- a fuel level sensor appeared.
The front panel cladding has changed and a fuel gauge has appeared.
The new generation received the index 400 II (In the factory version of the number, Roman designations are used.)
Interestingly, depending on the year of manufacture, the second generation could have additional options enabled by default:
- 97 models received different instrument panel lighting (changed to green) and a digital clock;
- in the 2000s, several changes were applied at once - the emblem on the tank became voluminous, control over the purification of exhaust gases appeared, the frame began to be painted in monochromatic colors, and the oil filter was removed (the older one has it).
In addition, some motorcycles received undocumented changes that slightly increased the performance parameters.
What do the owners say?
Connoisseurs of retro classics speak positively about this bike. For many, it, like other representatives of the class, has become a replacement for road motorcycles. Indeed, this technique is perfect for urban conditions, because it is leisurely and measured in dynamics.
Judging by the reviews, the motorcycle leaves a pleasant impression with its smooth ride and characteristic sounds when the engine is turned on and running. Those who have previously ridden really old bikes, which are almost half a century old, say that they don’t feel much difference in the sensations.
In conclusion, it is worth noting that the Kawasaki W400 is an excellent example of how to properly make an antique motorcycle. The appropriate appearance and characteristics are combined with modern safety and comfort measures. So if you want to touch the retro classics, this is one of the best options.
Price of Kawasaki Kawasaki ZR 400 Zephyr according to sales advertisements
The maximum price of Kawasaki Kawasaki ZR 400 Zephyr among the advertisements found is RUB 185,000*
The average price of Kawasaki Kawasaki ZR 400 Zephyr among the ads found is RUB 78,000*
The minimum price of Kawasaki Kawasaki ZR 400 Zephyr among the advertisements found is RUB 25,000*
Kawasaki zephyr X 400 53 hp 2001 in Achinsk
07.11.2020 110,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 in Khotynets
06.10.2020 110,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 KAI in Tula
01.10.2020 185,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr ZR 400 in Kineshma
09.20.2020 80,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 without papers in Tambovka
09/12/2020 40,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 in Ivanovo
01/23/2020 115,000 rub.
Kawasaki zephyr400 in Yeniseisk
11/12/2019 80,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 in Perm
10/06/2019 42,000 rub.
Kawasaki zr 400 Zephyr in Barnaul
02.09.2019 73,000 rub.
Kawasaki zephyr 400 g. 95 in Ivanovo
08/13/2019 110,000 rub.
Kawasaki ZR400 Zephyr X in Atyashevo
08/10/2019 35,000 rub.
Karacakn zephyr 400 in Bobrov
07/28/2019 110,000 rub.
Kawasaki ZR400 Zephyr X in Ruzaevka
07/14/2019 32,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 zr in Sevastopol
06/16/2019 125,000 rub.
Kawasaki ZR400 Zephyr in Lebyazhye
06/15/2019 90,000 rub.
Kawasaki ZR400Zephyr in Veliky Novgorod
05/30/2019 95,000 rub.
Kawasaki zephyr 400 exchange for a car in Kemerovo
01/23/2018 50,000 rub.
Kawasaki zr400 zephyr in St. Petersburg
10.30.2017 90,000 rub.
I sell a Kawasaki Zephyr 400 motorcycle in Vladimir
08/31/2017 80,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 in Omsk
08.08.2017 100,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400x in Perm
08/03/2017 90,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 (zr400) in Perm
06/08/2017 80,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 in Moscow
02/02/2017 65,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 in Khabarovsk
01/23/2017 25,000 rub.
Kawasaki ZR II 400 Zephyr X in Novosibirsk
04.11.2016 115,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 in Ivanovo
10.30.2016 82,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 in Tula
08/22/2014 40,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 in Lukhovitsy
08/19/2014 25,000 rub.
Motorcycle Kawasaki Zephyr 400 in Surgut
08/16/2014 108,000 rub.
Kawasaki ZR 400 Zephyr in Moscow
08/10/2014 30,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 in Abinsk
08/06/2014 40,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 in Abinsk
08/06/2014 40,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr ZR 400 C in Yaroslavl
08/05/2014 70,000 rub.
Kawasaki ZR II 400 Zephyr X class “streetbike” in Novosibirsk
07/31/2014 145,000 rub.
Kawasaki ZR400C Zephyr in Orenburg
07/22/2014 65,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400 in Ivanovo
07/14/2014 95,000 rub.
Kawasaki Zephyr 400C 1993 in Demyansk
06/30/2014 45,000 rub.
* Attention! Under the maximum, average and minimum of the Kawasaki Kawasaki ZR 400 Zephyr motorcycle on this page, the average cost according to advertisements for sale on the Internet is indicated, without taking into account the year of manufacture, configuration and generation of the motorcycle model.
Always modern design Kawasaki ZZR
The exterior of this model, even taking into account the time that has passed since the creation of the motorcycle, is considered very fresh and ultra-modern.
And this is a full credit to the design department of KAWASAKI, who were able to look into the future and do the incredible - to foresee the fashion trends of sports motorcycles for decades to come.
The fairings are bulky and massive at the same time, and therefore allow you to capture the driver in their “embraces” to create ideal aerodynamic conditions.
After all, this is the only way to achieve a comfortable ride at high speeds.
The instrument panel is very simple and concise. It is presented in the form of ordinary numbers and arrows.
Nothing superfluous - a classic of the genre. To create a sporty ambience, a chrome-plated exhaust pipe and textured steel brake discs are used.
Although the huge mirrors look a little ridiculous in the general plan, which only spoils the harmonious integrity of the picture.
Owner reviews
Most experienced owners enjoy the Zizer due to its ease of maintenance and availability of spare parts. For girls and beginner bikers, the motorcycle is quite heavy (almost 200 kg). Despite the high-revving engine, a sporty driving style is not for it . Owner reviews indicate that the most comfortable speed is 110 -115 km/h. With this operating mode, a significant resource of the units is preserved. As for riding with a passenger, although the design provides for the placement of a second rider, on this model it is still superfluous.
Owner review #1
Owner review #2
Fans of this model communicate on the thematic zizer forum.
Read other motorcycle reviews Detailed review of the Ducati Monster 696 motorcycle
Analysis of the technical characteristics of the Kawasaki ZZR 400
Over the many years of presence on domestic roads, the ZZR has been studied far and wide by motorcyclists: all of its positive and negative qualities have been identified. Based on reviews of the Kawasaki ZZR 400, one can conclude that the 400 cc engine is reliable and unpretentious, which cannot be said about the gearbox. With active and aggressive driving, it will have to be repaired every 30-40 thousand km; with moderate driving, the normal service life will last up to 50 thousand.
The cost of fixing the problem will cost the owner approximately 600-700 dollars, of which about 500 will be spent on spare parts, and 200 on the work of craftsmen. Signs of gearbox wear include incorrect shifting of second gear.
Owners of the Kawasaki ZZR 400 note the reliability and wear resistance of the frame structure. The reason is hidden in the fact that it was developed for a bike with a more powerful engine. Motorcycle owners have also identified a common problem of oil leakage due to damage to the clutch drive.
History of the motorcycle
The ZZR 400 motorcycle was created by the well-known company KAWASAKI as a variant of a sports and touring two-wheeled vehicle.
This is clearly confirmed by the code ZZ-R in the name.
After all, it is he who indicates a sports orientation.
This model was popularly dubbed “Zizer” .
And since its first appearance on the market, the model has become extremely popular. This was in 1990.
Preference for a motorcycle was given not only by speed riding enthusiasts, but also by professionals in this matter.
After all, the simultaneous combination of technical characteristics and unique sporty design left no one indifferent.
So, today the design of the Kawasaki ZZR (Kawasaki ZZR) 400 is quite relevant.
The Kawasaki Versys 650 motorcycle is designed for long trips, both on highways and on rough and mountainous terrain.
The most significant feature of this model is without a doubt the 16-valve, four-stroke 1034 cc engine.
Is it worth buying a Kawasaki ZZR 400
The undoubted and main advantage of the ZZR is its price. In fact, this model gives you a ticket to a sports biker club for just a penny. At the same time, you can only see the “old man” in a stylish motorcycle with an experienced eye, while ordinary pedestrians will look at the ZZR with admiration.
However, you should understand that we are still talking about a motorcycle from the early 90s, therefore, already in the purchasing process, you should think about finding spare parts and qualified technicians for maintenance and repair. Don't forget about the weight of the motorcycle - the Kawasaki ZZR 400 weighs 200 kg and not everyone can handle it correctly.
To summarize, the ZZR is an excellent choice for beginners who have $2000-5000 to spare, as well as for tuning enthusiasts.
Tuning and modification of a plastic Japanese samurai.
The Kawasaki ZZR 400 has very decent technical characteristics, so owners often pay attention to improving the aesthetic side of their motorcycles - stickers and so on. However, installing a direct-flow muffler instead of the standard system is also popular, since the sound of the Kawasaki ZZR leaves much to be desired - a kind of inexpressive squeal. But with an aftermarket exhaust like the Acrapovic or Two Brothers, the ZZR 400's sound changes dramatically. There are also options for replacing some transmission elements with reinforced ones, which eliminates the problem with second gear, which sooner or later inevitably arises on all Zizers. True, the set of parts required for this operation costs a lot, so most owners leave everything as is. So most often in the case of the Kawasaki ZZR 400, tuning comes down to replacing the exhaust with a louder one and pasting the motorcycle with different stickers. Sometimes the suspensions are changed to more modern ones, but this solution also cannot be classified as a budget solution.
Approximate cost
The cost of the new model will be approximately 500,000 rubles.
Whereas a formerly used unit will also be able to satisfy the wishes of not only the amateur, but also the professional.
In general, a motorcycle of this used model costs $4,000 – $5,000. It all depends on the year the bike was manufactured, its condition, and mileage.
The affordable price of the Kawasaki ZZR 400 motorcycle will allow you to become a member of a sports biker club.
After all, it is very difficult to guess from its appearance that this is a very old model. Only experts can do this. And therefore, ordinary passers-by will glance at your bike with admiration.
In this case, you must immediately look for a good service station and repairmen for such a vehicle.
Considering the fact that the Kawasaki ZZR 400 motorcycle model weighs 200 kg, not everyone can control it
This is worth paying special attention to. The world's love and preference for the Kawasaki ZZR 400 model allows us to say that this is one of the most successful motorcycles.
The world's love and preference for the Kawasaki ZZR 400 model suggests that this is one of the most successful motorcycles.
He will be a great friend for a beginner as he gains his first motorcycle riding experience.
After all, here high technical characteristics and ultra-modern design merged in an ideal tandem, which was significantly ahead of the time of its creators.
This type of sport-tourist class transport is comfortable and convenient not only when traveling around the city, but also when traveling long distances.
At the same time, all conditions for reliable protection from the wind and comfortable landing will be met.
Moreover, the Kawasaki ZZR 400 motorcycle will need only 5 seconds to accelerate to 100 km/h.
Therefore, this is a unique model that can compete with modern sports cars.
And if you consider that this model uses a massive rigid frame, suitable suspension and the most effective braking system, then this motorcycle can be classified as a sports class model.
Driving performance
The ZZR 400, as well as the more powerful version, belong to the series of sports bikes.
The bike was produced for a long time due to its popularity.
In some publications it is called a “ sport tourist ”, so the real data and those prescribed in the instructions for different years of production differed by several orders of magnitude.
- Gas tank volume - 16 l .
- According to the passport data, the maximum speed is 180 km/h .
- Acceleration to 100 km in 4.5 seconds .
- Fuel consumption - 3.7 l .
In real conditions, other indicators are given. Accordingly, 190 km/h, 5 seconds, 5 or more hp.
Dimensions and weight
- Height - 760 mm (at the saddle); 1175 mm (across the windshield).
- Length - 2070 mm .
- Width - 695 mm .
- Ground clearance - 120 mm .
- Base - 1430 mm .
We should also mention the weight. Despite the declared sportiness, the weight of the bike is almost 200 kg.
Brief history of the model
1994 – start of production and sales. Model: Kawasaki ZRX400 (Japan). Factory designation: ZR400-E1.
1995 – appearance of a modification with a classic round headlight. The half-fairing version now has a black alternator cover (instead of silver). Model: Kawasaki ZRX400; Kawasaki ZRX400-II (Japan). Factory designation: ZR400-E2; ZR400-F1.
1996 - the radiator is lowered a little lower for better heat transfer. The classic version with round headlight now has a chrome muffler (instead of black). Model: Kawasaki ZRX400; Kawasaki ZRX400-II (Japan). Factory designation: ZR400-E3; ZR400-F2.
1997 – the version with a semi-fairing is temporarily not produced. Model: Kawasaki ZRX400-II (Japan). Factory designation: ZR400-F3.
1998 – restyling of the model. The motorcycle now comes with 6-piston front calipers and different brake discs. The classic muffler is replaced with a sports muffler. The model gets radial tires. The generator cover in the classic version is now also painted black. Model: Kawasaki ZRX400; Kawasaki ZRX400-II (Japan). Factory designation: ZR400-E4; ZR400-F4.
1999 – no significant changes. Model: Kawasaki ZRX400; Kawasaki ZRX400-II (Japan). Factory designation: ZR400-E5; ZR400-F5.
2000 – no significant changes. Model: Kawasaki ZRX400; Kawasaki ZRX400-II (Japan). Factory designation: ZR400-E6; ZR400-F6.
2001 – minor changes to meet new environmental requirements. Model: Kawasaki ZRX400; Kawasaki ZRX400-II (Japan). Factory designation: ZR400-E7; ZR400-F7.
2002 – model not produced. 2003 – minor changes to the model. The fuel tank capacity is reduced from 16 to 15 liters, the 4th gear ratio is changed to meet the requirements of new noise standards. Model: Kawasaki ZRX400; Kawasaki ZRX400-II (Japan). Factory designation: ZR400-E8; ZR400-F8.
2004 - the model receives an immobilizer. Model: Kawasaki ZRX400; Kawasaki ZRX400-II (Japan). Factory designation: ZR400-E9; ZR400-F9.
2005 - This year's models receive bronze-colored engine covers and a silver fork cup (instead of black). Model: Kawasaki ZRX400; Kawasaki ZRX400-II (Japan). Factory designation: ZR400-E10; ZR400-F10.
2006 – no significant changes. Model: Kawasaki ZRX400; Kawasaki ZRX400-II (Japan). Factory designation: ZR400-E6F; ZR400-F6F.
2007 - Engine covers are again painted black (instead of bronze), and the fork cup returns to black (instead of silver). Model: Kawasaki ZRX400; Kawasaki ZRX400-II (Japan). Factory designation: ZR400-E7F; ZR400-F7F.
2008 is the last year of production. Model: Kawasaki ZRX400; Kawasaki ZRX400-II (Japan). Factory designation: ZR400-E8F; ZR400-F8F
Video
- Test drive of a Kawasaki ZZR400 motorcycle from a former owner.
- Review of the Kawasaki ZZR400 motorcycle.
Kawasaki ZZR 400
— a sports touring motorcycle for beginners. Despite the fact that the first release of the ZZR400 was released back in 1990, and already in 1993 the ZZR 400-2 modification went into production, this bike is still extremely popular. However, the popularity of the famous “Zizer” is deservedly so, because this motorcycle, despite some weak points, at one time gave people what they needed - an inexpensive sports tourer with excellent characteristics. The ZZR 400 is designed for those who want to join the class of sports touring bikes, but for safety or financial reasons do not want to immediately buy a more powerful model. But ZZR 400 is usually available in bulk on the secondary market, there is plenty to choose from! True, you need to choose carefully - since this is a motorcycle for beginners, it rarely stays in the same hands for years, and quite often changes owners. And who knows how each of the previous owners looked after it?
ZZR 400As we said just above, the high popularity of the Kawasaki ZZR 400 is due not least to the low price for a used copy. But from a technical point of view, the ZZR 400 is a very interesting bike. The engine, of course, does not amaze the imagination with its characteristics, but the liquid-cooled inline four is capable of producing from 53 to 59 horsepower and 37 nm of torque, depending on the year of manufacture of the motorcycle. The engine loves to rev - peak power occurs at around 9000 rpm, which is quite typical for a 400 cc in-line internal combustion engine. The maximum speed of the Kawasaki ZZR 400 is 190 km/h.
The developed plastic tail provides excellent wind protection - thus the ZZR 400 hints at its touring aspirations. However, it is also good in the city - short-wheelbase and not too heavy (the dry weight of the Kawasaki ZZR 400 is 197 kg), it maneuvers well, and three disc brakes provide the motorcycle with very effective deceleration if necessary. The motorcycle accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in five and a half seconds - an average figure. However, the comfortable cruising speed of the ZZR 400 is around 120 km/h. Of course, it can do more, but gasoline consumption will increase very significantly, and the simple design of the motorcycle will not thank you if you constantly operate the bike in such extreme conditions. By the way, the gas tank volume of the ZZR 400 is 18 liters, and consumption fluctuates around 8 liters in the combined cycle. Kawasaki ZZR400 According to reviews from Kawasaki ZZR 400 owners, the weak point of the motorcycle is its gearbox. In general, the six-speed transmission of a sports tourer works well and quite clearly, but due to the design features it quickly becomes loose, extraneous sounds appear, and gears begin to shift noticeably less clearly. Well, the famous “sore” of the ZZR 400 - the second gear falling out
This, of course, can all be repaired, but when buying a used Zizer, you should pay special attention to diagnosing the transmission
Despite being a completely legitimate sport-tourer, the Kawasaki ZZR 400 sometimes has some difficulties on the track. The power of its engine is noticeably not enough for dynamic acceleration after the hundred km/h mark, and if you also drive with a passenger and cargo, it becomes completely sad. But if you don't like to go fast, and you are attracted by the style of this motorcycle, which is also available at a low price, this will not be a disadvantage. Moreover, even now, a quarter of a century after the first Kawasaki ZZR 400 was released, this motorcycle does not look archaic. We can safely say that it is perfect as a first motorcycle for a sports touring enthusiast.
Construction of the ZZR 400
The name ZZR 400 stands for ZZR frame, engine capacity 400 cm3.
The Kawasaki ZZR 400 was once considered a very suitable motorcycle for both high-speed riding and touring.
Being the younger sister of the more powerful 600 version, the model was developed at the request of consumers who wanted to have all the capabilities of the older one, but at the same time get an engine with a volume of less than 0.5 liters.
A good durable frame, low fuel consumption, and good driving characteristics were the prerequisites for the fact that the production of the motorcycle continued for 27 years, until 2007.
Peculiarities
The appearance of the model remained virtually unchanged throughout its production. Editorial photo.
The model did not become a priority for the concern, so it did not receive any special technical innovations, with the exception of one, which will be discussed below.
To lighten the weight, the frame is made of aluminum alloys, plastic body kits are typical for the older model, a 16-liter tank and a carburetor engine.
Exterior
Aerodynamic fairings.
Turn signals built into plastic.
Narrow rear light.
- External optics include a bright double headlight and turn signals built into the plastic body.
- At the rear there is a brake light , a red light, and turn signals that are its continuation. There were also other designs made to individual orders.
- The mirrors are rectangular and large. They are carried outside the bike with the help of folding handles in several places.
- The windshield is sloping towards the driver , which suggests a sporty, low seating position when driving. The instrument panel is standard for cars of this class - speedometer and tachometer. The fuel gauge appeared in later versions.
Power point
The engine of the ZZR 400 is similar to the engine of the ZZR 600, differing only in volume and intake system.
The ZZR 400 is equipped with a 4-cylinder 4-stroke engine:
- working volume - 399 cm3 ;
- power - 58 hp;
- number of valves - 16 (4 per cylinder) ;
- cooling - liquid ;
- fuel supply is direct, there is no fuel pump ;
- ignition - electronic ;
- start - via kick starter leg, in some versions there were options for scooter start - with a button on the panel.
Users note that with proper refueling (gasoline no higher than AI-92), the engine functions normally and does not require repairs.
Chromed exhaust pipe.
Transmission and clutch
The motorcycle is equipped with a 6-speed gearbox.
- The operating principle is standard - according to a sequential scheme ( without the possibility of skipping gears ).
- Drive by chain.
Chain tension mechanism.
- Multi-disc clutch, oil bath .
The gearbox is capricious , despite the sporty style of the bike, work at high speeds often ends at a service station. According to experts, every 40-50 thousand . mileage they repair transmissions on “racers” motorcycles.
Brakes
Both wheels use disc hydraulics.
Front brakes.
Rear brakes.
There are two discs on the front wheel, one on the rear; front disc diameter - 310 mm , rear - 220 mm ; 4-piston caliper for the front, 2-piston for the rear.