Release Features
The Xanthus 400 model from Kawasaki lived on the assembly line for only a few years, but left a noticeable mark on the history of motorcycles.
But the unusual shape played a bad joke on the bike. The Japanese consumer, for whom the new model was intended, did not like this decision. Sales were not going well .
Competitions among naked riders were not an option either. According to their rules, only motorcycles with a steel frame were accepted, and Kawasaki had it made of aluminum.
, production ended in 1996 The model was produced for only three years (it was not produced in 1993 ), but its appearance paved the way for a whole series of bikes that are produced today by many brands.
Appearance
Of course, the Kawasaki W400 uses spokes rather than alloy wheels. There is no windshield. The mirrors are round and located high enough to match the prototypes of the past.
The metal elements are chrome plated, which adds shine to the equipment. The headlight is large and round.
Judging by the video and photos, the car looks aesthetically pleasing in different lighting conditions and in different weather conditions. This is not surprising, because it is made according to the standards that have gone down in history as classic.
Of course, such a model will not be very harmoniously combined with the interior of a high-tech garage, but these are minor things.
If you listen to the description of the motorcycle or just look at it without knowing what kind of model it is, it is easy to mistake it for a rarity from the middle of the last century. And this speaks volumes about the quality of work done by Kawasaki. However, connoisseurs will, of course, notice the nuances that give off a modern motorcycle.
Specifications
The heart of the bike was the engine, which had already proven itself on a racing motorcycle of its own production, the ZXR400.
Engine – left view.
Engine – right side view.
Cylinder block.
Exhaust manifold.
As is customary on 400s, the engine’s power was reduced to 53 horsepower, due to which they were able to increase torque at low and mid-range speeds, which overall led to good dynamics for the newcomer.
Other parameters include:
- working volume - 398 cm3;
- number of cylinders - 4;
- number of cycles - 4;
- number of valves - 16 (4 per cylinder);
- power - 53 hp;
- torque - 36 Nm;
- cooling - liquid;
- fuel supply - Keihin carburetor, 4x (CVKD30);
- ignition - transistor (TDI);
- start - electric starter;
- tank volume - 14 l.
Users noted that the choice of prototype for the motor was not the best. He had his childhood problems - they moved on to the new bike. At the same time, it was noted that the parent was exported, so finding parts for repairs would not be a problem.
Transmission and clutch
Gear shift foot.
Chain drive.
a 6-speed gearbox is installed on a bike with a claim to racing participation . Installed here, coupled with the ZXR400 , it worked well and shifted smoothly. But from such a tandem the motorcycle received one small problem - second gear. As users note, she doesn’t like her motorcycle and, if possible, tries to get rid of her. Either go to neutral, or demand a higher one.
- Multi-disc clutch, oil bath . Power transmission is a cable .
- The main drive is a chain .
Brakes
Front brakes.
Rear brake.
Rear brake drive.
To describe the brakes in one word - ZX-9R (the brand's racing model, released around the same years). On a 5-point scale, they cope with their role perfectly.
Front:
- number of disks - 2;
- disc diameter - 310 mm;
- support - 2-piston.
Rear:
- number of disks - 1;
- disc diameter - 250 mm;
- support - 1-piston.
Options were not yet developed at the time of production.
007_moto_0211_040
The brakes on the ZZ-R400 were carried over from the 600, so their efficiency is in perfect order.
The brakes on the ZZ-R400 were carried over from the 600, so their efficiency is in perfect order.
WHERE AND HOW TO SEARCH? In general, the design of the motorcycle is very reliable. There are no serious “diseases” in any components of the motorcycle, and all the problems that are often discussed when discussing the model are associated with inept operation of the motorcycle or misuse. The first and main advice when choosing a Zizer: look for a motorcycle “without mileage in the Russian Federation.” (takeaway) In the vast majority of cases, the ZZ-R400 is bought by compatriots as the first Japanese motorcycle, respectively, either after experience in operating domestic equipment, or without experience at all. As a rule, beginners have little knowledge in the field of proper maintenance and insufficient operating experience. And it is in the process of “learning” that motorcycles are “killed” literally within a season or two of living in Russia. The chance of finding a device in decent condition from those that have been with us for at least a couple of seasons is quite difficult. However, we should not forget that a device freshly imported from Japan can turn out to be a well-made-up “dead man,” although there are still not many of them.
When choosing a ZZ-R, you should not focus on devices from the first years of production. Even with the most careful operation, the gearbox resource is exhausted by 50–60 thousand km, and the engine becomes noticeably “tired” by this mileage. Motorcycles produced in the early to mid-90s (either in showrooms or through private advertisements) traditionally show no more than 25 thousand km on odometers - “a fresh addition, but hard to believe.”
Driving performance
At its core, the Xanthus is more of a city motorcycle than a long-range one.
The maximum speed indicated in the documentation is 180 km/h . According to users, the bike picks up speed well up to 140 km/h , then extremely reluctantly up to 160 km/h, above which the wind simply blows away. Cruiser - 120 km/h .
Acceleration to hundreds
Acceleration from zero to 100 is 6.5 seconds , according to the documentation. Measured using GPS - 5.2 sec .
Fuel consumption
Since the bike was offered only to Japanese consumers, fuel consumption was indicated in national standards. 2.7 l per 100 km at a constant speed of 60 km/h and the presence of a second number.
According to the owners - 6 liters for urban use. On the highway - no more than 5 liters .
Kawasaki ZZR400 - Brief Review
Kawasaki ZZR400 / Kawasaki ZZR400
The sports-touring Kawasaki ZZR400, which appeared in 1990, is distinguished by a successful timeless design and a well-tailored design. “Zizer,” as Russian bikers nicknamed the model, gained wide popularity among beginners. Sporty lines, aerodynamic fairings, easy-going temperament and ease of use are the hallmarks of the Kawasaki ZZR400.
The versatility and practicality of the Zizer allows it to be used comfortably in the city and on long routes. Comfortable fit and acceptable ergonomics do not unnecessarily strain the biker’s muscular system, which is very good on long journeys. With proper and timely maintenance, the Kawasaki ZZR400 will be reliable and provide an unforgettable operating experience.
The 400 cc power plant of the sports “tourist” has a smooth character throughout the entire range of cylinder operation. As Kawasaki ZZR400 owners note, the transmission on these motorcycles is not reliable enough. When using the throttle aggressively, 2nd gear often fails. In 1994, the Kawasaki ZZR400 was slightly modernized, receiving new fairings and other minor changes.
Dimensions and weight
The length of the motorcycle is average, but in terms of weight it is very light.
One of the highlights of the model was its mass:
- dry weight was 168 kg ;
- equipped, taking into account all liquids - 187 kg .
The dimensions corresponded to a middle-class road truck:
- length - 2,031 mm;
- width - 746 mm;
- height - 1,071 mm;
Seat height - 775 mm .
Wheelbase - 1,380 mm .
Ground clearance - 125 mm .
For whom is it intended?
The low-set saddle was designed for a short person.
The seating position is very comfortable - everything is accessible and in its place, and the length of the saddle allows you to easily move the center of gravity of the body back and forth.
However, when the motorcycle appeared in Russia, tuning centers found an interesting solution. Instead of a standard steering wheel, clip-ons are installed on the model. As a result of this modification, it is quite comfortable to move on a motorcycle even for a person whose height reaches 180 cm .
009_moto_0211_040
The same problem can occur in the first generation.
But here the airbox itself is visible to the naked eye, which can also “leak” along the seams. The same problem can occur in the first generation. But here the airbox itself is visible to the naked eye, which can also “leak” along the seams.
(-) Another possible cause of “floating” idle is a malfunction of the relay regulator. Low voltage confuses the ignition control unit. True, this “jamb” may not come out immediately, but after the battery runs out without proper charging (usually after half an hour or an hour of engine operation, and this is immediately visible from the dim light of the headlight). The relay itself, as a rule, “gives up” when using a faulty battery. The operation of the charging system is checked simply: at engine speeds above 4000, the voltage at the battery terminals must be at least 14.5 V.
Modifications and competitors
The bike did not have time to acquire any standard factory modifications.
As the developers said, having released such an unsuccessful version and being afraid to fly out of the 2-wheeled motorcycle market, the model was closed and tried to be forgotten.
CB400F
Honda CB400F - steel frame, simple suspension and one brake disc for each wheel.
But the fears turned out to be unjustified. This is confirmed by the presence of competitors to the model. Official publications name only one version. This is the CB-1, sometimes referred to as the CB400F. Brand Honda.
Others
Besides her, users name several more.
- CB400 is the same Honda, a classic naked bike.
- FZR 400 - sport. Manufactured by Yamaxa (Probably due to comparable maximum speed and dynamics).
- The VFR400 is also a sport. Brand Honda.
This also includes several variations of the Suzuki, for example the bandit version with 400 cc.
History of changes
The model has not undergone any changes in principle. This is natural, given that the release lasted about a year. For such a bike this is not a minus, because it is already good enough.
The car was originally made to match the examples of a bygone era, and it is completely unclear what could be added or changed here.
Such motorcycles should ideally be made immediately, and any additions in the future often indicate that some points were overlooked.
Various upgrades do not make such a bike any better, but only spoil it, depriving it of its uniqueness and historicity in design.
Flaws
Russian owners named the following disadvantages:
- Dashboard - a large amount of data, convenient layout, but at the same time a solid monolithic body. If you have to spread out, the panel breaks. It is impossible to find a new one in the same single block, and for it to stand in the same place.
The instrument panel is completely mechanical, quite informative and easy to read.
- The timing unit has a very short resource - 30-40 k , and since the model has long been discontinued - when buying a bike on the secondary market, you will have to immediately look for a new set (as a rule, it is useless to revive the old one).
- The can and the entire exhaust system - as a result of saving materials, the entire chain may begin to rust .
The remaining disadvantages are minor, some will think that it would be good to change the 2-piston front caliper (brake) to 4-piston. Others are finishing the gearbox (second gear).
and dignity
In terms of its contents, the bike could outperform some modern models.
- Unique maneuverability and at the same time a complete absence of wobbling - stop, turn under the knee, quickly jump into the next row - are limited only by the capabilities of the pilot.
- Reliability and availability of spare parts - the first does not need proof, and for the second it is worth remembering that the motorcycle has relatives Kawasaki ZX-9R , as well as Kawasaki ZXR400.
- Controllability and predictability.
- Easy to maintain.
And besides this, they also add fuel consumption, external design, adequacy, and also the fact that the lightweight motorcycle is popular with female bikers.
Reviews from real owners.
I wanted to buy a sportbike, at first the choice fell on the old 900 Fireblade, but my friends dissuaded me, and that’s good. I kept having doubts about the 400, I thought that it wouldn’t be enough, especially since I had driven a CB400 before, and I didn’t want to change one 400 for another. It’s good that I listened to my friends, because when I picked up my Zizer and rode it for the first time, I got off it and started to look - is it really only 400 cc??! Because its dynamics are really crazy, but if you don’t unscrew the knob all the way, the acceleration is controlled. Alexander, St. Petersburg, Kawasaki ZZR 400 2 '2005.
When I was looking for a new motorcycle, I came across a review of Kawasaki in a magazine, namely the ZZR 400 cc. I became interested and began to dig for information, but did not find any critical shortcomings, except for the problematic second gear, in the owner reviews. I looked at about seven zizers before I bought them - almost all of them were placed on their sides, and generally looked tired in appearance. Apparently, the fact is that 400s are bought mainly by beginners like me, and they don’t bother too much with maintenance, knowing that the motorcycle will be sold anyway in a year or two. But in the end I found a well-maintained copy, which I took and which took me from Tver to Sochi and back a week after the purchase. Overall satisfied, although gas mileage could be lower. Vladimir, Tver, Kawasaki ZZR 400 '1991.
I drove a ZZR 400 for two years, during which time, like everyone else, the second gear fell apart, repairs cost about 15k for spare parts and labor. There were no more problems, but I sold the bike because I got tired of 400 cubic meters for the season. And this is a normal device for beginners. Ilya, Saratov, Kawasaki ZZR 400 '1992.
What do the owners say?
Connoisseurs of retro classics speak positively about this bike. For many, it, like other representatives of the class, has become a replacement for road motorcycles. Indeed, this technique is perfect for urban conditions, because it is leisurely and measured in dynamics.
Judging by the reviews, the motorcycle leaves a pleasant impression with its smooth ride and characteristic sounds when the engine is turned on and running. Those who have previously ridden really old bikes, which are almost half a century old, say that they don’t feel much difference in the sensations.
In conclusion, it is worth noting that the Kawasaki W400 is an excellent example of how to properly make an antique motorcycle. The appropriate appearance and characteristics are combined with modern safety and comfort measures. So if you want to touch the retro classics, this is one of the best options.
Is it worth buying a Kawasaki?
One of the main advantages of the ZZR 400 motorcycle is its price: for an affordable price you can buy a sport bike, which is used by many professional motorcycle racers. Despite the fact that the model was released more than two decades ago and has undergone virtually no restyling, its design remains relevant to this day, causing admiration not only among motorcyclists, but also among pedestrians.
Before purchasing a motorcycle from the 90s, you should think about searching for and purchasing spare parts if necessary and contacting qualified (and ideally official) car repair centers and dealerships. It is also worth remembering the considerable weight of the motorcycle - more than 200 kilograms, which is why not everyone can handle the bike.
Advantages of Kawasaki ZZR 400:
- The motorcycle was created in full compliance with all the requirements, criteria and standards for sports bikes.
- Affordable cost of motorcycle and spare parts.
- Current and modern design.
Disadvantages of the motorcycle:
- Unreliable transmission, causing complaints.
- Today it is difficult to find a Kawasaki ZZR 400 in good technical condition, without signs of corrosion or deformation.
Approximate cost
The cost of the new model will be approximately 500,000 rubles.
Whereas a formerly used unit will also be able to satisfy the wishes of not only the amateur, but also the professional.
In general, a motorcycle of this used model costs $4,000 – $5,000. It all depends on the year the bike was manufactured, its condition, and mileage.
The affordable price of the Kawasaki ZZR 400 motorcycle will allow you to become a member of a sports biker club.
After all, it is very difficult to guess from its appearance that this is a very old model. Only experts can do this. And therefore, ordinary passers-by will glance at your bike with admiration.
In this case, you must immediately look for a good service station and repairmen for such a vehicle.
Considering the fact that the Kawasaki ZZR 400 motorcycle model weighs 200 kg, not everyone can control it
This is worth paying special attention to. The world's love and preference for the Kawasaki ZZR 400 model allows us to say that this is one of the most successful motorcycles.
The world's love and preference for the Kawasaki ZZR 400 model suggests that this is one of the most successful motorcycles.
He will be a great friend for a beginner as he gains his first motorcycle riding experience.
After all, here high technical characteristics and ultra-modern design merged in an ideal tandem, which was significantly ahead of the time of its creators.
This type of sport-tourist class transport is comfortable and convenient not only when traveling around the city, but also when traveling long distances.
At the same time, all conditions for reliable protection from the wind and comfortable landing will be met.
Moreover, the Kawasaki ZZR 400 motorcycle will need only 5 seconds to accelerate to 100 km/h.
Therefore, this is a unique model that can compete with modern sports cars.
And if you consider that this model uses a massive rigid frame, suitable suspension and the most effective braking system, then this motorcycle can be classified as a sports class model.
Always modern design Kawasaki ZZR
The exterior of this model, even taking into account the time that has passed since the creation of the motorcycle, is considered very fresh and ultra-modern.
And this is a full credit to the design department of KAWASAKI, who were able to look into the future and do the incredible - to foresee the fashion trends of sports motorcycles for decades to come.
The fairings are bulky and massive at the same time, and therefore allow you to capture the driver in their “embraces” to create ideal aerodynamic conditions.
After all, this is the only way to achieve a comfortable ride at high speeds.
The instrument panel is very simple and concise. It is presented in the form of ordinary numbers and arrows.
Nothing superfluous - a classic of the genre. To create a sporty ambience, a chrome-plated exhaust pipe and textured steel brake discs are used.
Although the huge mirrors look a little ridiculous in the general plan, which only spoils the harmonious integrity of the picture.
Video
- Test drive of a Kawasaki ZZR400 motorcycle from a former owner.
- Review of the Kawasaki ZZR400 motorcycle.
Kawasaki ZZR 400
— a sports touring motorcycle for beginners. Despite the fact that the first release of the ZZR400 was released back in 1990, and already in 1993 the ZZR 400-2 modification went into production, this bike is still extremely popular. However, the popularity of the famous “Zizer” is deservedly so, because this motorcycle, despite some weak points, at one time gave people what they needed - an inexpensive sports tourer with excellent characteristics. The ZZR 400 is designed for those who want to join the class of sports touring bikes, but for safety or financial reasons do not want to immediately buy a more powerful model. But ZZR 400 is usually available in bulk on the secondary market, there is plenty to choose from! True, you need to choose carefully - since this is a motorcycle for beginners, it rarely stays in the same hands for years, and quite often changes owners. And who knows how each of the previous owners looked after it?
ZZR 400As we said just above, the high popularity of the Kawasaki ZZR 400 is due not least to the low price for a used copy. But from a technical point of view, the ZZR 400 is a very interesting bike. The engine, of course, does not amaze the imagination with its characteristics, but the liquid-cooled inline four is capable of producing from 53 to 59 horsepower and 37 nm of torque, depending on the year of manufacture of the motorcycle. The engine loves to rev - peak power occurs at around 9000 rpm, which is quite typical for a 400 cc in-line internal combustion engine. The maximum speed of the Kawasaki ZZR 400 is 190 km/h.
The developed plastic tail provides excellent wind protection - thus the ZZR 400 hints at its touring aspirations. However, it is also good in the city - short-wheelbase and not too heavy (the dry weight of the Kawasaki ZZR 400 is 197 kg), it maneuvers well, and three disc brakes provide the motorcycle with very effective deceleration if necessary. The motorcycle accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in five and a half seconds - an average figure. However, the comfortable cruising speed of the ZZR 400 is around 120 km/h. Of course, it can do more, but gasoline consumption will increase very significantly, and the simple design of the motorcycle will not thank you if you constantly operate the bike in such extreme conditions. By the way, the gas tank volume of the ZZR 400 is 18 liters, and consumption fluctuates around 8 liters in the combined cycle. Kawasaki ZZR400 According to reviews from Kawasaki ZZR 400 owners, the weak point of the motorcycle is its gearbox. In general, the six-speed transmission of a sports tourer works well and quite clearly, but due to the design features it quickly becomes loose, extraneous sounds appear, and gears begin to shift noticeably less clearly. Well, the famous “sore” of the ZZR 400 - the second gear falling out
This, of course, can all be repaired, but when buying a used Zizer, you should pay special attention to diagnosing the transmission
Despite being a completely legitimate sport-tourer, the Kawasaki ZZR 400 sometimes has some difficulties on the track. The power of its engine is noticeably not enough for dynamic acceleration after the hundred km/h mark, and if you also drive with a passenger and cargo, it becomes completely sad. But if you don't like to go fast, and you are attracted by the style of this motorcycle, which is also available at a low price, this will not be a disadvantage. Moreover, even now, a quarter of a century after the first Kawasaki ZZR 400 was released, this motorcycle does not look archaic. We can safely say that it is perfect as a first motorcycle for a sports touring enthusiast.
Is it worth buying a Kawasaki ZZR 400
The undoubted and main advantage of the ZZR is its price. In fact, this model gives you a ticket to a sports biker club for just a penny. At the same time, you can only see the “old man” in a stylish motorcycle with an experienced eye, while ordinary pedestrians will look at the ZZR with admiration.
However, you should understand that we are still talking about a motorcycle from the early 90s, therefore, already in the purchasing process, you should think about finding spare parts and qualified technicians for maintenance and repair. Don't forget about the weight of the motorcycle - the Kawasaki ZZR 400 weighs 200 kg and not everyone can handle it correctly.
To summarize, the ZZR is an excellent choice for beginners who have $2000-5000 to spare, as well as for tuning enthusiasts.
