Motorcycles Kawasaki with engine capacity 400 cubes - the perfect balance between power, controllability and affordability. They are suitable for both beginners and experienced riders who value the reliability of Japanese technology. In this article we will look at which models Kawasaki 400 presented on the market, where it is more profitable to buy them (in a salon or from hand), what to look for when inspecting and how to complete a transaction without risks.
We will pay special attention to legal nuances: registration with the traffic police, checking the history of the motorcycle and the nuances of insurance. We'll also compare prices for new and used models so you can make an informed decision.
Whether you're looking for your first motorcycle or want to upgrade your fleet, Kawasaki 400cc — one of the best options in its class. Below is a detailed guide on selection, purchase and design.
What Kawasaki 400cc models are on the market?
Ruler Kawasaki with volume 399 cm³ includes several popular models, each aimed at different riding styles:
- 🏍️ Ninja 400 - a sports motorcycle with an aggressive design, ideal for the track and dynamic driving around the city. Equipped 39 hp engine and a 6-speed gearbox.
- 🛣️ Z400 — naked (naked motorcycle) for everyday use. Lightweight, maneuverable, with a comfortable fit. Suitable for city trips and short trips.
- 🚜 Vulcan S 400 - a low-slung cruiser with relaxed ergonomics. An excellent choice for long distances and comfortable riding.
- 🏁 KLR 400 (restyled version) - enduro for off-road and light off-road. Rarely found in Russia, but in demand among adventure lovers.
All models are equipped liquid cooled, fuel injection and comply with environmental standards Euro-5. The main difference is Ninja 400 and Z400 have the same engine, but different frame and suspension tuning, which affects controllability.
For a comparison of key features, see the table below:
| Model | Type | Power (hp) | Weight (kg) | Seat height (mm) | Average price (new, 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja 400 | Sportbike | 45 | 168 | 785 | 680 000 — 750 000 ₽ |
| Z400 | Naked | 45 | 167 | 785 | 650 000 — 720 000 ₽ |
| Vulcan S 400 | Cruiser | 45 | 228 | 705 | 700 000 — 780 000 ₽ |
When choosing a model, consider driving style:
- 🔥 For speed and adrenaline - Ninja 400.
- 🏙️ For the city and maneuverability - Z400.
- 🛣️ For travel and comfort - Vulcan S 400.
New or used: which is more profitable?
Price new Kawasaki 400 at official dealers starts from 650 000 ₽, but you can save money by buying a used motorcycle. However, there are risks here:
⚠️ Attention: Motorcycles with mileage over 20,000 km often require replacing the chain, sprockets and wheel bearings. The budget for repairs can be 30 000 — 50 000 ₽.
Advantages of buying new:
- 🔧 Warranty (usually 2 years or 20,000 km).
- 📄 Clean history (no accidents, repainting, hidden defects).
- 💰 Possibility of applying for credit or leasing.
Pros of a used motorcycle:
- 💰 Price for 30-50% lower (for example, 2020 Z400 can be found for 350 000 — 450 000 ₽).
- 🛠️ Often additional equipment is already installed (cases, engine protection).
Where to look for used Kawasaki 400:
- 🌐 Avito, Drom.ru, BazaMoto.ru - the largest sites.
- 🤝 Motorcycle clubs and forums (for example,
Kawasaki-Riders.ru). - 🏍️ Specialized showrooms of used equipment (check the reputation!).
Before buying a used motorcycle, ask the seller diagnostic card (if any) and check the history through the service traffic police by VIN code.
How to check Kawasaki 400 before buying?
Inspecting your motorcycle is a critical step, especially if you are buying second hand. What to pay attention to:
1. Engine and transmission:
- 🔊 Start the motorcycle when it’s cold - it should run smoothly, without any extraneous noise.
- 🛢️ Check the level and color of the oil (dark or with metal shavings is a sign of wear).
- 🔗 Inspect the chain: a stretched or rusty chain requires replacement (cost 8 000 — 15 000 ₽).
2. Chassis:
- 🔄 Rock the motorcycle to the sides - play in the wheel bearings or steering column is unacceptable.
- 🛞 Check tire wear (remaining tread depth should be at least 2 mm).
- 🔧 Inspect the shock absorbers for oil leaks.
3. Electrical and electronics:
- 💡 Turn on all lights (headlights, turn signals, brake lights).
- 🔋 Check the battery charge (the voltage should be 12.6 V on a switched off motorcycle).
- 📶 Make sure there are no errors on the dashboard (for example,
FI— injection malfunction).
Checking the VIN code for theft|Test drive (required!)|Inspection of documents (PTS, STS, purchase and sale agreement)|Checking for fines by license plate-->
If you are not confident in your skills, invite an experienced motorcyclist for inspection or contact the service for pre-sale diagnostics (cost 3 000 — 5 000 ₽).
⚠️ Attention: Motorcycles Kawasaki 400 often become the target of fraud. Check the originality of the VIN code (it must match in the PTS, on the frame and engine) and ask the seller for a passport (to verify the data in the PTS).
Legal nuances: how to formalize the deal?
Buying a motorcycle requires proper paperwork, otherwise you risk problems with registration with the traffic police. Step by step instructions:
1. Checking the seller’s documents:
- 📄 PTS (vehicle passport) - must be original, without blots.
- 📋 STS (registration certificate) - check if the VIN matches.
- 👤 Seller’s passport - the data must match the PTS.
2. Drawing up a purchase and sale agreement (SPA):
- 📝 Use standard form from the traffic police website.
- 💰 Indicate the actual transaction amount (do not underestimate to avoid tax problems).
- ✍️ Signatures of both parties must be legible.
3. Registration with the traffic police:
- 🏛️ Make an appointment via State Services portal (time saving!).
- 💵 Payment of state duty: 2 000 ₽ for registration + 500 ₽ for new numbers (if needed).
- 📋 Required documents: passport, DCT, PTS, STS (if any), OSAGO policy.
What happens if you don’t re-register the motorcycle?
If you do not register your motorcycle within 10 days after purchase, you face a fine 1 500 — 2 000 ₽ (Article 19.22 of the Administrative Code). In addition, the former owner may deregister it, and then you will have to restore the documents through the court.
Pay special attention insurance. For Kawasaki 400 the cost of compulsory motor liability insurance in 2026 is 2 500 — 4 000 ₽ depending on the region and driver experience.
Where to buy Kawasaki 400: showrooms vs private sellers
Choosing where to buy depends on your budget and willingness to take risks. Let's look at the pros and cons of each option:
Official Kawasaki dealers:
- ✅ Warranty and service support.
- ✅ Possibility of test drive.
- ✅ Applying for a loan or leasing.
- ❌ Price is higher by 10—15% compared to gray dealers.
List of official dealers in Russia:
- 📍 Moscow: Kawasaki Motor Rus (Nagornaya st., 17).
- 📍 St. Petersburg: MotoCenter Kawasaki (Engelsa Ave., 154).
- 📍 Ekaterinburg: UralMoto (Krasnoarmeyskaya st., 4).
Gray dealers and private sellers:
- ✅ Price is lower on 20—30%.
- ✅ Large selection of used motorcycles.
- ❌ Risk of running into stolen or damaged equipment.
- ❌ No guarantee (if you buy secondhand).
If you buy from a private seller, be sure to:
- Check the motorcycle through traffic police service for theft and arrests.
- Request the original PTS (not a copy!).
- Complete a contract indicating all the seller’s details.
Buying from an authorized dealer is safer, but more expensive. If your budget is limited, look for a motorcycle with a mileage of up to 10,000 km from trusted sellers with a good reputation.
How much does it cost to service a Kawasaki 400?
The cost of owning a motorcycle doesn't stop at purchase. Let's calculate the main expenses for the year (for mileage 10,000 km/year):
| Expense item | Cost (₽) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance | 8 000 — 12 000 | Every 6,000 km |
| Changing the oil and filter | 3 000 — 5 000 | Every 6,000 km |
| Replacing chain and sprockets | 15 000 — 25 000 | Every 20,000 km |
| Tires (set) | 25 000 — 40 000 | Every 15,000 - 20,000 km |
| OSAGO insurance | 2 500 — 4 000 | 1 time per year |
Total: 53,500 - 86,000 ₽/year (excluding fuel and unforeseen repairs).
You can save money if:
- 🔧 Do maintenance yourself (changing oil, filters).
- 🛒 Buy spare parts at AliExpress or in trusted online stores (for example,
Moto-Zip.ru). - 🏍️ Use all-season tires (but this will reduce safety!).
For Kawasaki 400 It is critically important to comply with maintenance regulations. For example, skipping an oil change can lead to engine jam (repairs will cost 150 000 — 200 000 ₽).
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about purchasing a Kawasaki 400
❓ Do you need a category “A” license for the Kawasaki 400?
Yes, for driving a motorcycle with engine capacity more than 125 cm³ category required «A» (or subcategory «A1» for motorcycles up to 125 cm³ and power up to 15 hp, but Kawasaki 400 does not fit under "A1").
If you have category rights «B» (passenger cars), you can drive a motorcycle only if you have driving experience 3+ years and open subcategory «A1» (from 2020).
❓ Is it possible to ride a Kawasaki 400 in winter?
Technically yes, but it comes with risks:
- ❄️ Low temperatures worsen tire grip on the road.
- 🔋 The battery discharges faster (especially if the motorcycle is parked outside).
- 🛠️ Salt and reagents accelerate the corrosion of metal parts.
If you travel in winter, install winter tires (for example, Mitas E-07) and use heated handles.
❓ What kind of oil should I fill in the Kawasaki 400?
The manufacturer recommends oil class API SN or JASO MA2 with viscosity:
- 🌡️ 10W-40 — for temperate climates (most regions of Russia).
- 🥶 5W-40 — for cold regions (Siberia, Far East).
Popular brands: Motul 7100 10W-40, Liqui Moly Street Race 10W-40.
❓ How much does customs clearance cost for a Kawasaki 400 if brought from Japan?
The cost of customs clearance depends on the year of manufacture and type of motorcycle:
- 📦 Motorcycles older than 3 years: duty 0%, but you need to pay VAT 20% and recycling fee (RUB 20,000).
- 🆕 Motorcycles under 3 years old: duty 15-20% + VAT + recycling fee.
Total: customs clearance will cost 100 000 — 200 000 ₽ depending on the model. It is often cheaper to buy a motorcycle from an authorized dealer.
❓ Is it possible to install turbocharging on a Kawasaki 400?
Technically possible, but:
- ⚠️ This will lead to loss of warranty (if the motorcycle is new).
- 🔧 Refinement of the engine, replacement of pistons, valves and adjustment of the ECU will be required (budget from 200 000 ₽).
- 📄 You will have to re-register the PTS (as technical specifications change).
For Kawasaki 400 turbocharging is impractical - it’s easier to buy a larger motorcycle (for example, Ninja 650).