Main points
- The Kawasaki Ninja 400 has a shorter wheelbase and a steeper rake angle than the Honda CBR500, which makes it more agile and easier to maneuver in tight corners.
- If you’re not sure whether the Kawasaki Ninja 400 or the Honda CBR500 is the right bike for you, there are a few other mid-weight sportbikes that you might want to consider.
- The GSX-R600 is a more powerful and track-focused sportbike than the Ninja 400 or the CBR500.
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 and the Honda CBR500 are two of the most popular mid-weight sportbikes on the market. Both bikes offer a great blend of performance, comfort, and affordability, making them ideal for both new and experienced riders. But which one is the right choice for you? In this blog post, we’ll compare the Kawasaki Ninja 400 and the Honda CBR500 head-to-head to help you make an informed decision.
Performance
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is powered by a 399cc parallel-twin engine that produces 49 horsepower and 28 lb-ft of torque. The Honda CBR500 is powered by a 471cc parallel-twin engine that produces 47 horsepower and 32 lb-ft of torque.
On paper, the Ninja 400 has a slight edge in terms of power, but the CBR500 has more torque. In real-world riding, the Ninja 400 feels more responsive and quicker off the line, while the CBR500 feels smoother and more refined.
Handling
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 has a shorter wheelbase and a steeper rake angle than the Honda CBR500, which makes it more agile and easier to maneuver in tight corners. The CBR500, on the other hand, has a longer wheelbase and a more relaxed rake angle, which makes it more stable at high speeds.
Both bikes have adjustable suspension, so you can dial in the handling to your liking. However, the Ninja 400’s suspension is generally considered to be more sporty, while the CBR500’s suspension is more comfortable.
Comfort
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 has a more aggressive riding position than the Honda CBR500, with lower handlebars and a higher footpeg position. The CBR500, on the other hand, has a more upright riding position, with higher handlebars and a lower footpeg position.
The Ninja 400’s seat is also firmer than the CBR500’s seat, which can make it less comfortable on long rides. The CBR500’s seat is wider and more plush, which makes it more comfortable for both the rider and the passenger.
Features
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 comes standard with a slipper clutch, which helps to prevent the rear wheel from locking up under hard braking. The CBR500 does not come with a slipper clutch, but it does have a standard ABS system.
Both bikes come with a digital instrument cluster, but the Ninja 400’s instrument cluster is more comprehensive, with a gear indicator and a lap timer. The CBR500’s instrument cluster is simpler, but it is still easy to read and use.
Price
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 has a starting price of $4,999, while the Honda CBR500 has a starting price of $6,999. The Ninja 400 is significantly cheaper than the CBR500, but it also has fewer features.
Which Bike is Right for You?
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is a great choice for riders who want a sporty and agile bike that is also affordable. The Honda CBR500 is a great choice for riders who want a more comfortable and refined bike that is also more powerful.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which bike is right for you is to test ride both of them. That way, you can get a feel for how each bike handles and performs, and you can make an informed decision based on your own personal preferences.
Alternatives to the Kawasaki Ninja 400 and Honda CBR500
If you’re not sure whether the Kawasaki Ninja 400 or the Honda CBR500 is the right bike for you, there are a few other mid-weight sportbikes that you might want to consider.
- Yamaha YZF-R3: The YZF-R3 is a great all-around sportbike that offers a good balance of performance, comfort, and affordability.
- Suzuki GSX-R600: The GSX-R600 is a more powerful and track-focused sportbike than the Ninja 400 or the CBR500.
- KTM RC 390: The RC 390 is a lightweight and agile sportbike that is perfect for track days and canyon carving.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Which bike is faster: the Kawasaki Ninja 400 or the Honda CBR500?
On paper, the Ninja 400 has a slight edge in terms of power, but the CBR500 has more torque. In real-world riding, the Ninja 400 feels more responsive and quicker off the line, while the CBR500 feels smoother and more refined.
2. Which bike is more comfortable: the Kawasaki Ninja 400 or the Honda CBR500?
The Honda CBR500 is more comfortable than the Kawasaki Ninja 400. The CBR500 has a more upright riding position, a wider and more plush seat, and a more comfortable suspension.
3. Which bike is cheaper: the Kawasaki Ninja 400 or the Honda CBR500?
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is cheaper than the Honda CBR500. The Ninja 400 has a starting price of $4,999, while the CBR500 has a starting price of $6,999.
