Introduction to the 2024 Kawasaki Ninja Series
The Ninja 400 and Ninja 650 are two budget-friendly options in the 2024 Kawasaki Ninja series, designed to cater to new riders and enthusiasts alike. Both models boast impressive engine specifications, suspension systems, and braking capabilities.
Engine Specifications
- The Ninja 400 is powered by a 399cc parallel-twin engine, producing 50 horsepower at 10,000 rpm and 38 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm.
- The Ninja 650, on the other hand, features a 649cc inline-four engine, generating 68 horsepower at 12,500 rpm and 61 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm.
Suspension Systems
- Both models feature a horizontal back-link fork with rebound damping adjustment, providing a smooth ride and excellent handling.
- The Ninja 650 adds an additional rear shock absorber with compression and rebound damping adjustment, offering enhanced stability and traction.
Brakes
- The Ninja 400 is equipped with dual semi-metallic front brakes (140mm) and a single petal-type disc rear brake (220mm).
- The Ninja 650 features dual semi-metallic front brakes (140mm) and a single petal-type disc rear brake (240mm), offering improved stopping power.
Prices
- The Ninja 400 has an MSRP of $6,399 for the base model and $7,099 for the KRT Edition.
- The Ninja 650 has an MSRP of $8,199 for the base model and $9,299 for the ABS model.
Both models offer exceptional value for their price points, providing a perfect blend of performance, handling, and affordability. While the Ninja 400 is ideal for new riders looking to develop their skills, the Ninja 650 offers more power and features for those seeking a more exhilarating ride.
Budget-Friendly Options: The Ninja 400 and Ninja 650
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 and Ninja 650 are two budget-friendly options that cater to new riders seeking an entry-point into the world of supersport motorcycles. Both models boast impressive engine specifications, suspension systems, and brakes, making them an attractive choice for those on a tight budget.
Engine Specifications The Ninja 400 is powered by a 399cc parallel-twin engine, producing 49 horsepower at 9,500 rpm and 32 lb-ft of torque at 8,000 rpm. The Ninja 650, on the other hand, features a 649cc parallel-twin engine, generating 67 horsepower at 12,000 rpm and 47 lb-ft of torque at 6,700 rpm.
Suspension Systems The Ninja 400 comes equipped with a bottom-link Uni-Trak rear suspension system, providing a smooth ride and excellent handling. The Ninja 650 features a horizontal back-link fork and Uni-Trak rear suspension system, offering improved stability and agility.
Brakes Both models feature dual 290mm petal discs up front, with the Ninja 400’s single 220mm disc brake in the rear, while the Ninja 650 boasts a single 220mm disc brake at the back. The Ninja 650’s larger brakes provide enhanced stopping power.
Pricing The Kawasaki Ninja 400 starts at around $5,000, making it an affordable option for new riders. The Ninja 650, with its more powerful engine and improved suspension system, is priced slightly higher at around $6,500.
While the Ninja 400 may lack some of the flashier features of its sibling, it still offers impressive performance and handling. Its lower price point makes it an attractive choice for those on a budget. The Ninja 650, with its more powerful engine and improved suspension system, is a great option for those seeking a more premium riding experience without breaking the bank.
Mid-Range Models: The Ninja ZX-6R and Ninja ZX-10R
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R and Ninja ZX-10R models sit comfortably in the mid-range segment, offering a perfect balance of power and handling. The ZX-6R is powered by a 636cc inline-four engine that produces 129 horsepower at 13,500 rpm, while the ZX-10R boasts a 998cc inline-four engine that generates 207 horsepower at 14,000 rpm.
Both models feature Kawasaki’s Assist & Slipper Clutch (ASSIST) system, which helps to improve cornering performance by reducing clutch slip during rapid downshifts. The ZX-6R is equipped with 41mm inverted forks and a horizontal back-link monoshock, while the ZX-10R features adjustable Öhlins TTX monotube forks and a remote reservoir monoshock.
Braking duties are handled by dual 300mm petal discs with four-piston calipers on both models. The ZX-6R tips the scales at 430 pounds (195 kg), while the ZX-10R weighs in at 472 pounds (214 kg).
Prices for these mid-range marvels vary, with the ZX-6R starting at $9,499 and the ZX-10R beginning at $12,999. For riders seeking a blend of agility and power, the Ninja ZX-6R is an excellent choice. Those craving even more performance will find the Ninja ZX-10R to be a thrilling companion on the road.
Key Features:
- Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R:
- 636cc inline-four engine
- 129 horsepower at 13,500 rpm
- Assist & Slipper Clutch (ASSIST) system
- 41mm inverted forks and horizontal back-link monoshock
- Dual 300mm petal discs with four-piston calipers
- Starting price: $9,499
- Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R:
High-Performance Options: The Ninja H2 and Ninja H2 SX
The Ninja H2 and Ninja H2 SX models are high-performance options that cater to riders seeking exceptional power, handling, and premium features. The Ninja H2 is powered by a 998cc inline-four engine, producing 200 horsepower and 113 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), which enables advanced electronic rider aids such as cornering ABS and power modes.
The suspension system on the Ninja H2 features a horizontal back-link fork with rebound damping adjustment and a horizontally-stacked monoshock with preload, compression, and rebound damping adjustments. This setup provides excellent handling and stability at high speeds. Braking is handled by dual 330mm petal discs with Brembo calipers up front and a single 250mm petal disc in the rear.
The Ninja H2 SX adds additional premium features such as Kawasaki’s Sport-Touring Package, which includes heated grips, LED cornering lights, and a Bluetooth-equipped instrument cluster. The price for this model starts at $24,999.
In terms of performance, the Ninja H2 is capable of reaching 0-60 mph in just 3.1 seconds and has a top speed of over 186 mph. Its exceptional handling and power delivery make it an excellent choice for riders seeking a high-performance touring bike or a track-day companion.
- Engine Specifications:
- Displacement: 998cc + Cylinders: Inline-four
- Horsepower: 200 hp
- Torque: 113 lb-ft
- Suspension System:
- Front fork: Horizontal back-link with rebound damping adjustment
- Rear shock: Horizontally-stacked monoshock with preload, compression, and rebound damping adjustments
- Braking System:
- Front brakes: Dual 330mm petal discs with Brembo calipers
- Rear brake: Single 250mm petal disc
Conclusion and Ranking of 2024 Kawasaki Ninja Models by Price
Based on our analysis, here’s a summary of key findings from each chapter:
The Ninja 400, Ninja 650, and Ninja ZX-6R offer more accessible price points, ranging from around $7,000 to $10,000. These models provide excellent value for riders seeking performance without breaking the bank.
The Ninja H2 and Ninja H2 SX represent the pinnacle of high-performance riding, with prices starting at around $20,000. Their advanced technology and exceptional power output make them ideal for experienced riders seeking a premium riding experience.
Here’s our ranking of the 2024 Kawasaki Ninja models by price:
- Ninja 400: Around $7,000
- Ninja 650: Around $8,000
- Ninja ZX-6R: Around $9,500
- Ninja 1000 SX SE+: Around $12,000
- Ninja H2: Around $20,000
- Ninja H2 SX: Around $22,000
Based on our findings, here are some recommendations for different rider preferences and budgets:
- For beginners or entry-level riders: The Ninja 400 and Ninja 650 offer excellent value and performance.
- For experienced riders seeking a balance of power and affordability: The Ninja ZX-6R is an excellent choice.
- For premium riding experiences: The Ninja H2 and Ninja H2 SX are ideal for experienced riders willing to invest in advanced technology and exceptional power output.
In conclusion, the 2024 Kawasaki Ninja series offers a range of options for riders with different budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly entry-level model or a high-performance beast, there’s a Ninja model that fits your needs. By considering the key features, prices, and rankings outlined in this article, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and find the perfect Kawasaki Ninja model for you.