KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Kawasaki India silently removed the Ninja 400 from its official website
- Ninja 500 launched in the market at a similar price point as the Ninja 400
- Lack of localization of parts contributed to the higher price point of the Ninja 400
Kawasaki India quietly bid farewell to its Ninja 400, discreetly removing the beloved supersport bike from its official website. The shift in lineup now continues to place the Ninja 300 as the entry-level option, with the Ninja 500 positioned above it. This transition was expected, especially considering that the Ninja 500 was priced at Rs 5.24 lakh (ex-showroom), entering the Indian market at the same price point as the Ninja 400 a few months earlier in February. For those eager to delve deeper into the details, keep reading below. Also, don't forget to join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Group for all the latest automotive content updates.
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Kawasaki Ninja 400: From Launch To Discontinuation
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 has had a rocky journey in the Indian market despite being a beloved bike known for its design, performance, and agile chassis. Launched in April 2018 at a price of Rs. 4.69 lakh, the bike had to be pulled off the shelves due to the need for engine updates to comply with BS6 standards. After a two-year hiatus, Kawasaki reintroduced the model as a BS6-compliant motorcycle priced at Rs. 4.99 lakh. However, being brought in through the CBU route, the Ninja 400 has always maintained a slightly higher price point.
As of 2024, its price has crept up to a level similar to the recently launched Kawasaki 500. With the arrival of the Ninja 500, the Ninja 400 was only available until stocks lasted. Eventually, the company took the final step of removing it from the official website. While Kawasaki successfully localized parts for the Ninja 300, gradually bringing its price within reach of more customers, the same strategy was not employed for the Ninja 400. Even the Ninja 500 follows the CBU route, sharing the same fate. It would have been beneficial if the company had also localized parts for the Ninja 400. However, whether the company will take this step remains uncertain.
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Kawasaki Ninja 400 And Ninja 500: Engine Details
The Ninja 400, powered by a 399cc parallel-twin engine, delivers 45hp and 37Nm of torque. Its closest rival, the KTM RC 390, offers similar performance figures. However, the Ninja 500, features a larger 451cc, Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke Parallel Twin engine. This model produces 45 bhp and a higher torque of 42.6 Nm, paired with a 6-speed transmission and Assist & Slipper Clutch. The bike is equipped with a semi-floating 310 mm disc brake in the front and a 220 mm disc brake in the rear, both with ABS.
Verdict
Some riders might feel a tinge of sadness hearing about the discontinuation of this particular model, given the emotional connection they have with this machine. However, considering the similar price point and enhanced performance, opting for the Ninja 500 seems like a better choice. We'll have to wait and see if there are more changes in the portfolio.
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