Should I buy Kawasaki Ninja 500 or Ninja 400?

I know the Ninja 400 is overpriced, but I have always been a fan of the Ninja look and with the recent discounts being offered, I decided to take the plunge, even though there are more affordable rivals available. But now the Ninja 500 is launched and I’m confused about whether I should just pay full price and get the new bike.

R Sharma, via email

Autocar India says: We reviewed the Ninja 400 a few years back and found it to be a very likeable and fun to ride bike that was held back by its price. However, with dealers offering Rs 40,000 off, the bike does become a little more appealing.

The new Kawasaki Ninja 500 comes in at an introductory price of Rs 5.24 lakh, which is exactly the same as the undiscounted price of the 400. For that, you get a new face inspired by the new ZX-6R, as well as new fairings and a redesigned tail lamp. The display is new (still an LCD unit) and it gets Bluetooth connectivity. As for the engine, it has grown to 451cc and while it makes the same 45hp, torque has seen a significant rise from 37Nm to 42.6Nm. 

Apart from the lower price, another point to consider is that the new engine isn’t quite as rev happy as the old 400. It produces its peak power and torque figures at lower revs and that will surely make it more tractable and quicker feeling in the city. However, if you want more of a high-revving, mini sportbike feel, the Ninja 400 might do a better job of delivering that experience.

If you do find the Kawasaki Ninja 400 more appealing, you should hurry because the new Ninja 500 replaces it and the discounts being offered are to clear existing stock. 

Also See:

2022 Kawasaki Ninja 400 review: Mean green machine