400cc motorcycles are usually made targeting buyers that have owned one or two bikes in the past. There are options catered to those with less experience, while some are targeted at more seasoned riders. So, it’s important to understand what the best 400cc motorcycles are for your experience level.
The 7 best 400cc motorcycles are:
- Royal Enfield Himalayan
- Kawasaki Z400 ABS
- Honda CBR400R
- Royal Enfield Classic 350
- KTM 390 Duke
- Royal Enfield Meteor 350
- Kawasaki Ninja 400
Motorcycle manufacturers are constantly upgrading the motorcycles they sell to the general public. Our list below goes into detail about what we think are the best options available today, but before we go into that, let’s discuss what you should look for in a 400cc motorcycle.
What To Look For In A 400cc Motorcycle
The Bike’s Weight
A factor often overlooked is the bike’s weight, as most riders don’t consider it to be of much significance. However, lifting anything over 308 lbs (140 kg) needs a good bit of muscle and is asking a lot from the average person if the bike falls over. The bike’s weight will also influence its handling, especially at low speeds, which is worth considering if you do a lot of city riding.
Power And Speed
While these are realistically not going to be too important for the average journey, most buyers still pay attention to these numbers. These will vary depending on a variety of factors, from the brand to the engine capacity. The latter will vary slightly from exactly 400cc, but the power and top speeds of the bikes listed below vary significantly.
Fuel Consumption
Gas prices are never cheap, and they’re an expense you really need to factor into the overall long-term cost of the bike. If you intend to use this to commute over long distances, then check out the fuel consumption specs for each bike so that fuel prices don’t burn a hole in your pocket.
Prices Vary A Lot
An important component of the purchase for most buyers is the price, but in reality, prices vary lots depending on the bike’s age, and any extras you choose to buy. Price can also vary depending on where you live, so the best place to confirm prices is with your nearest dealer who you intend to buy from. You should also plan a clearly defined budget before you start shopping around.
The 7 Best 400cc Motorcycles
1. Royal Enfield Himalayan
Engine Type: Air-cooled single cylinder | Engine Capacity: 411cc | Top Speed: 90 mph / 145 kph | Max Power: 24.5 hp | Max Torque: 23.6 lb-ft / 32 Nm | Wet Weight: 439 lbs / 199 kg | Seat Height: 31.5 inches / 80 cm
The Royal Enfield Himalayan is an adventure touring motorcycle that was launched in 2016, and was designed by the South African motorcycle designer Pierre Terblanche. It has ABS as standard with an 11.8 inch (30 cm) front disc brake and a 9.4 inch (24 cm) rear disc brake. It sports electronic ignition, five gears, front telescopic shock absorbers, and a rear monoshock.
The fuel tank holds 3.9 gallons (15 liters) which is enough for about 205 miles (330 km) at its estimated fuel economy of 75 mpg. Since 2021, a tripper navigational aid has been included on the right side of the instrument cluster. You can connect your smartphone after installing the Royal Enfield North America app, then program your destination into it, and follow the directions on the Tripper.
Even though this bike has plenty of qualities to attract most riders, it is designed as a tourer with some of its features reflecting it. Weekend and commuter riders will find this a great bike at its price with plenty of comfortable seating for two, but those that need a bit more oomph will feel the pinch in its top speed and power.
PROS:
- Reasonable price
- Both wheels have large hydraulic disc brakes with ABS
- Low fuel consumption
CONS:
- A bit low on power
- Quite a heavy bike
- Retro looks might not appeal to all
2. Kawasaki Z400 ABS
Engine Type: Air-cooled parallel twin | Engine Capacity: 399cc | Top Speed: 112 mph / 180 kph | Max Power: 44.1 hp | Max Torque: 25.1 lb-ft / 34 Nm | Wet Weight: 364 lbs / 165 kg | Seat Height: 30.9 inches / 79 cm
The Kawasaki Z400 was called the “Best Lightweight Streetbike” in 2018 and 2019 by Cycle World. This bike will appeal more to riders that want some extra speed. Weekend riders and tourers will probably prefer one of the other options on our list though.
This bike uses the same engine as the Kawasaki Ninja 400, which is a proven success. Short riders will be happy with the seat height, but taller riders need to physically check if they are comfortable on it before they buy. With large disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels with ABS, the racer is well looked after with plenty of braking power.
The 3.7 gallon (14 liter) fuel tank coupled with its fuel economy of 45 mpg gives the rider a range of about 166 miles (267 km). This bike is definitely not meant for weekend riders or long distances with its high fuel consumption, but it’s more than adequate for the urban commuter who needs a fast ride to work every day.
PROS:
- Relatively low price
- Both wheels have large hydraulic disc brakes with ABS
- Outstanding looks and available in many colors
CONS:
- Tall riders may find it uncomfortable
- High fuel consumption
3. Honda CBR400R
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled parallel twin | Engine Capacity: 399cc | Top Speed: 111 mph / 179 kph | Max Power: 45.4 hp | Max Torque: 27.3 lb-ft / 37 Nm | Wet Weight: 423 lbs / 192 kg | Seat Height: 30.9 inches / 79 cm
The Honda CBR400R uses some of the same parts as the larger CBR500R, which ensures you’re getting quality components with this bike. There are two versions, the CBR400R and the CBR400X, and each one has some different features. You’ll need to check which version is being sold along with the specs before handing over any money.
This is the only bike in this review with a front-fitted fairing. Large disc brakes with ABS are standard, with alloy wheels and an upside-down front fork suspension. An assist and slipper clutch with six gears power this bike to its top speed of 111 mph (179 kph), and overall it’s a good choice for those that want a solid all-round 400cc motorcycle.
PROS:
- Assist and slipper clutch
- Both wheels have large hydraulic disc brakes with ABS
- Very comfortable seats for the rider and passenger
CONS:
- Heavy for a beginner
4. Royal Enfield Classic 350
Engine Type: Air-cooled single cylinder | Engine Capacity: 349cc | Top Speed: 81 mph / 130 kph | Max Power: 20.2 hp | Max Torque: 19.9 lb-ft / 27 Nm | Wet Weight: 430 lbs / 195 kg | Seat Height: 31.6 inches / 81 cm
The Royal Enfield Classic 350 has been around for ages, with a few modifications here and there as technology has advanced. The basic version is called Redditch, and this offers decent value for money, but comes with a disc brake on the front wheel and a drum brake on the rear wheel. The dual ABS version costs an extra $100 for factory fitting, which is reasonable.
It has an analog speedometer and fuel gauge, with a digital odometer and tripmeter. This bike is ideal for commuters who regularly travel long distances. With its fuel consumption of 98 mpg, a lot of people are going to be eyeing this bike because of its price and fuel efficiency. The Classic 350 is available in six variants with 15 colors, with the Chrome variant being the most expensive.
This bike doesn’t have much speed to appeal to racers, but offers excellent value to commuters, weekend riders, and tourers. Panniers and a luggage rack available from Royal Enfield can be fitted on the bike. This bike has been the flagship of Royal Enfield for many years and has a reputation for reliability, requiring minimal maintenance.
PROS:
- Fairly low price
- Outstanding fuel efficiency
- The Enfield brand has a reputation for quality
CONS:
- Heavy for a beginner
- ABS version costs more
5. KTM 390 Duke
Engine Type: Liquid-cooled single cylinder | Engine Capacity: 373cc | Top Speed: 104 mph / 168 kph | Max Power: 44 hp | Max Torque: 27.3 lb-ft / 37 Nm | Wet Weight: 369 lbs / 167 kg | Seat Height: 32.8 inches / 83 cm
The KTM 390 Duke appear to be more appropriate for riders that want to take their motorcycle to the track and commuters. It was the winner of the Cycle World “Best Lightweight Streetbike” in 2015. It is one of the few bikes in this review that boasts a slipper clutch and a quickshifter for its six gears.
Its fuel tank capacity of 3.5 gallons (13.5 liters) and its fuel efficiency of 61 mpg give it a range of 217 miles (349 km) on a full tank. It also sports a color TFT screen that can connect to the rider’s smartphone via Bluetooth.
The 390 Duke has riding modes that can be programmed and allows the rider to ride by wire. The suspension consists of an inverted front fork with a rear monoshock. Both front and rear wheels have disc brakes with ABS as standard. Of all the bikes reviewed, this is the most advanced of all, offering several unique features.
PROS:
- Reasonably priced
- Slipper clutch and quickshifter
- Both wheels have large hydraulic disc brakes with ABS
CONS:
- Heavy for a beginner
- Limited seat space for the pillion passenger
6. Royal Enfield Meteor 350
Engine Type: Air-cooled single cylinder | Engine Capacity: 349cc | Top Speed: 75 mph / 120 kph | Max Power: 20.2 hp | Max Torque: 19.9 lb-ft / 27 Nm | Wet Weight: 421 lbs / 194 kg | Seat Height: 30.1 inches / 77 cm
The Royal Enfield Meteor 350 is the third bike from Royal Enfield to be listed here, and it has some outstanding features that set it apart from the crowd.
The telescopic front fork has 5.1 inches (12.9 cm) of travel, and the rear emulsion shocks have 3.5 inches (8.8 cm) of travel that guarantees a very smooth ride on even the most uneven roads. The front and rear disc brakes are larger than average and are fitted onto alloy wheels. The fuel tank holds 3.9 gallons (15 liters) of fuel that is enough for a journey of about 326 miles (525 km).
Two versions are available: the Stella version and the Supernova version, which has superior specs. It features a Tripper navigation system on the side of the instrument cluster that provides the rider with visual directions from Google Maps. You’ll need to install the Tripper navigation app on your phone and connect it through Bluetooth to access this feature.
The top speed of 75 mph (120 kph) is going to be a big disappointment for those that put a focus on going fast or for touring long distances, but this bike is ideal for the commuter who needs to take a passenger along, as it has plenty of seat space. The weekend rider has enough space to take luggage and a pillion passenger on a weekend country ride.
PROS:
- Reasonably low price
- Both wheels have large hydraulic disc brakes
- Long suspension is ideal for bumpy roads
CONS:
- Heavy for a beginner
- Low power
7. Kawasaki Ninja 400
Engine Type: Water-cooled two cylinder | Engine Capacity: 399cc | Top Speed: 105 mph / 168 kph | Max Power: 55 hp | Max Torque: 15.2 lb-ft / 20.6 Nm | Wet Weight: 366 lbs / 166 kg | Seat Height: 30.9 inches / 78 cm
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is from the iconic Ninja series that has been made by Kawasaki since 1984, and a total of seven Ninja models have been manufactured in the last 38 years. Easily the most powerful bike on this list, the Ninja 400 has 3 variants: the basic Ninja 400, an ABS version, and a KRT version, where KRT stands for “Kawasaki Racing Team.”
The basic version is the bare minimum, the ABS version includes factory-fitted ABS on the front and rear wheels, and the KRT is the same as the ABS version with a few extra “Kawasaki Racing Team” graphics on the bike. This bike is designed to appeal to those that prioritize speed, but it can be comfortably used for commuting.
Its six gears are connected to an assist and slipper clutch. Its long telescopic fork with 4.7 inches (11.9 cm) of travel is good enough for a comfortable ride, although a USD suspension would have been preferred. This bike can be used for commuting, but it’s not ideal for use on country dirt roads as a tourer.
PROS:
- Reasonably priced
- Assist and slipper clutch
- Both wheels have large hydraulic disc brakes
CONS:
- Pillion seat is short
- ABS costs extra
Are 400cc Motorcycles Good For Beginners?
400cc motorcycles are usually not good for beginners. These motorcycles are good as a second bike after the rider has spent a few years on a bike with a smaller capacity engine. They possess too much power and are most certainly on the heavy side, and so could be too much for the beginner to handle.
How Fast Are 400cc Motorcycles?
400cc motorcycles have a typical top speed of about 110 mph (177 kph), depending on the brand and model. If this isn’t enough for you, then the better option is to buy a bike with a larger engine capacity that is built for speed. Most 400cc bikes are intended for use by commuters or weekend riders.
Final Thoughts
400cc motorcycles are meant for the intermediate rider who has already spent a few years riding and wants to upgrade to something with more power and speed. Our list contains a bike suited to every need and riding style, and they’re all from some of the best brands in the business.