Kawasaki has started delivering the highly anticipated Ninja ZX-4R in the Indian market. The bike was launched in India on September 11, 2023, much to the delight of motorcycle enthusiasts. The predecessor of the ZX-4R, the ZX-25R, was not introduced in the country, which created a demand for small to mid-displacement sportbikes in India and other Asian countries.
However, despite its smaller size, the Ninja ZX-4R comes with a hefty price tag. It is the most expensive 400cc model in the Indian market, with a retail price of Rs 849,000 ($10,204 USD). In comparison, Kawasaki USA sells the ZX-4R for $9,399 USD.
In terms of performance, the new Ninja ZX-4R offers beginners and intermediate riders a solid foundation to hone their skills on the track. It is equipped with a 399cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, inline-four-cylinder engine that delivers a maximum output of 75.9 horsepower at 14,500 rpm. The torque is 39 Newton-meters (about 28 pound-feet) at 13,000 rpm. The power is transmitted to the rear wheel through a six-speed manual transmission, and the bike also features a quickshifter for a more exhilarating ride.
On the technology front, the ZX-4R comes with a full-color TFT instrument cluster with smartphone connectivity. Riders can choose between four ride modes (Sport, Rain, Road, and Rider) through the display. The bike also features ABS and traction control for added safety and peace of mind.
In terms of its design, the ZX-4R has traditional sportbike foundations, including 17-inch wheels, inverted front forks, a rear monoshock, and dual disc brakes at the front. It has low-slung clip-ons and high rearsets similar to its larger ZX siblings, which can sometimes be mistaken for its entry-level counterpart, the Ninja 400.
Kawasaki offers the Ninja ZX-4R in a single Metallic Spark Black color in the Indian market. The company had initially planned to release the bike in batches of 25 units, and the first two batches have already been sold out. The booking window is currently open, and customers placing orders can expect delivery in early 2024.