2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR ABS Review

2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR ABS
All-New In-Line Four Engine. The new 399 cm3 liquid-cooled DOHC In-Line Four engine pushes technological boundaries to comfortably top the 400cc class*. Developed with know-how gained from other Ninja ZX models, the high-performance engine offers class-leading power and a revrange that extends beyond 15,000 min-1.
ReviewKey FeaturesFeatures & BenefitsSpecifications

2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR ABS 2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR ABS 2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR ABS 2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR ABS2026-Kawasaki-Ninja-ZX-4RR-ABS

2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR ABS: AWAKEN YOUR SUPERSPORT.

Introducing the 2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR ABS…

Into a category filled with 400cc sport models, Kawasaki introduces a revolutionary Supersport model. The Ninja ZX-4RR mounts a 400cc In-Line Four engine with class-leading performance in a compact chassis. On the track or on the street, experiencing the exhilaration of the Ninja ZX-4RR’s unprecedented power, thrilling high-rpm wail, and its sharp, nimble handing will surely awaken the dormant Supersport within you.

 

 

2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

  • 399cc IN-LINE 4-CYLINDER DOHC ENGINE
  • RAM AIR DUCT INTAKE SYSTEM
  • WORLDSBK-INSPIRED CHASSIS
  • ALL-LED LIGHTING
  • KAWASAKI TRACTION CONTROL (KTRC)
  • SMARTPHONE CONNECTIVITY VIA RIDEOLOGY THE APP MOTORCYCLE†

ADDITIONAL VEHICLE FEATURES:

  • High-grade front fork with adjustable spring preload
  • High-grade Showa BFRC lite rear shock
  • Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) (Dual-Direction)

 

AVAILABLE COLOURS
Lime Green
Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray / Metallic Spark Black
Pearl Robotic White/Metallic Spark Black

 

ABS
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System) ensures stable braking performance by preventing wheel lock during braking.

Horizontal Back-link Rear Suspension
Horizontal Back-link Rear Suspension arranges its shock unit horizontally, greatly contributing to efficient use of space and mass centralisation.

Electronic Throttle Valves
Electronic Throttle Valves allow the ECU to deliver the ideal amount of fuel and air to the engine.

KQS – Kawasaki Quick Shifter
KQS (Kawasaki Quick Shifter) enables clutchless shifting.

Assist & Slipper Clutch
Based on racing technology, the Assist & Slipper Clutch acts as both a back-torque limiter and a self-servo mechanism that enables a lighter clutch lever pull.

KTRC (3-mode)
3-Mode KTRC (Kawasaki TRaction Control), Kawasaki’s most advanced traction control system, offers a selection of modes to suit a variety of riding situations, from sport riding to touring.

Power Modes
Power Mode selection allows engine power delivery to be changed to suit the riding situation.

Economical Riding Indicator
The Economical Riding Indicator is a mark appearing on the instrument panel to indicate favourable fuel consumption, encouraging fuel efficient riding.

Smartphone Connectivity
Smartphone connectivity contributes to an enhanced motorcycling experience by enabling riders to connect to their motorcycle wirelessly.

 

KAWASAKI ANNOUNCES FALL RELEASE OF 2026 SPORT AND SUPERSPORT MOTORCYCLES

Kawasaki redefined the 400cc supersport category with the arrival of the Ninja® ZX™-4R ABS and Ninja® ZX™-4RR ABS motorcycles. This circuit-focused motorcycle combines real-world road enjoyment and track riding potential and provides the rider the satisfaction of being able to ride with confidence. The Ninja ZX-4R ABS boasts a powerful 399cc in-line four-cylinder engine that produces music to the ears with its high-performance audible signal – helping it stand out from the competition. Its lightweight trellis frame is compact and nimble for exciting cornering performance, while 290mm dual front disc brakes and a high-performance 37mm Showa SFF-BP front fork as well as horizontal back-link rear suspension have been fitted to ensure that the Ninja ZX-4R ABS breeds performance from the ground up. Other premium features include a 4.3” TFT color instrumentation with smartphone connectivity, integrated riding modes that link Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) and Power Modes, and aggressive Ninja® ZX™ family styling that make it clear this is a high-performance supersport model. The Ninja ZX-4RR ABS takes performance even further with the addition of dual-direction Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS), a higher-grade Showa front fork with adjustable spring preload, and a Showa BFRC Lite rear shock. The Ninja ZX-4R ABS is painted in a Metallic Spark Black color scheme. The 2026 Ninja ZX-4RR ABS is offered in three color schemes, including Lime Green, Pearl Robotic White/Metallic Spark Black, and Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Metallic Spark Black.

 

 

2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR ABS Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

High-revving Performance
With a redline beyond 15,000 rpm indicating its screaming potential, this engine features racing-inspired technology also found on the Ninja ZX-10R. The high revs deliver a distinctive, exhilarating engine sound characteristic of a high-performance Kawasaki In-Line Four.

Dual Front Disc Brakes

The ZX-4R’s two ø290 mm front brake discs and radialmount monobloc calipers provide sure stopping power, while also offering excellent braking feel to inspire confidence both on the track and on the street.

Premium Components and Features

Style meets substance with the Ninja ZX-4R’s high-class styling and high-grade package. Aggressive looks are complemented by premium features like TFT colour instrumentation providing clear information, integrated Riding Modes that link traction control and power modes for easy machine setup, and on the ZX-4RR a quick shifter for fast, simple gear changes.

All-LED Lighting

From its twin headlights to its Ninja ZX-10R-inspired taillight, all lighting on the Ninja ZX-4R is LED.

TFT Colour Instrumentation with Circuit Mode

The 4.3” all-digital TFT colour instrumentation with selectable display modes (Normal, Circuit) clearly displays the most pertinent information, whether on the street or on the track. Circuit Mode shows the gear position, lap times, and rpm above 10,000 more prominently.

Integrated Riding Modes

Four integrated riding modes (Sport, Road, Rain or Rider (manual)) make it simple to select a level of traction control and power mode to suit the current riding conditions.

Trellis Frame with Optimised Rigidity Balance

Designed using Kawasaki’s advanced dynamic rigidity analysis, this trellis frame made from high-tensile steel delivers the required balance of strength and chassis flex to achieve the Ninja ZX-4R’s nimble supersport-style handling.

Ergonomics for Control and Comfort

Naturally aggressive riding position (more forwardleaning than the Ninja 400’s, but still slightly relaxed) lets riders take advantage of the Ninja ZX-4R’s nimble handling. The fuel tank feels slim, promoting good contact with the bike, while the shape of the firm seat cushion facilitates rider weight shift during sport riding, and is comfortable for longer rides.

Class-Leading Engine Performance

Kawasaki takes 400cc engine performance to a new level, achieving an unprecedented 57 kW (77 PS) of power. The howl of the engine as it revs beyond 15,000 min-1 adds to rider exhilaration. A quick-revving nature and direct throttle response are complemented by a flexible character that offers strong low to mid-range torque for city riding, as well as screaming high-rpm power ideal for sport or track riding.

Dual-direction KQS

Allowing riders to take even greater advantage of the Ninja ZX-4R’s exhilarating engine character, the quick shifter enables clutchless upshifts and downshifts for seamless acceleration and easy deceleration.

Ram Air Intake

Complementing the centrally positioned Ram Air intake, the side Ram Air duct, designed with feedback from the Ninja H2, routes air to the air cleaner box and contributes to stellar performance. Its aggressive look and intake sound add to the screaming In-Line Four experience, and visually identify the bike as one of Kawasaki’s Ninja ZX models.

High-Grade Suspension

The Ninja ZX-4R’s ø37 mm inverted fork uses SFFBP internals to offer both racetrack performance and everyday usability while the Horizontal Back-link rear suspension offers a progressive character. Offering increased adjustability, the Ninja ZX-4RR front fork includes an adjustable spring preload.

Smartphone Connectivity

Bluetooth technology built into the instrument panel allows connection to smartphones via the “RIDEOLOGY THE APP” smartphone application, enabling riders to access instrument functions for an enhanced motorcycling experience.

Fierce Ninja ZX Styling

Befitting the most powerful machine in the 400cc class, the Ninja ZX-4R’s aggressive Ninja styling exudes a fierce aura of restrained power and explosive action.

All-New In-Line Four Engine

The new 399 cm3 liquid-cooled DOHC In-Line Four engine pushes technological boundaries to comfortably top the 400cc class*. Developed with know-how gained from other Ninja ZX models, the high-performance engine offers class-leading power and a revrange that extends beyond 15,000 min-1.

World Superbike Inspired Chassis Design

Key chassis dimensions (centre of gravity position, swingarm pivot position, engine axis positions, caster
angle, etc) were inspired by Kawasaki’s World Superbike Ninja ZX-10RR racer, bringing WorldSBK chassis design thinking to the 400cc class.

 

 

 

 

 

2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $ 9,999 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $ TBA CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ TBA (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

POWER

POWER
Engine 4-stroke, in-line 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve, liquid-cooled
Displacement 399cc
Bore x Stroke 57.0 x 39.1mm
Compression Ratio 12.3:1
Maximum Horsepower 56.0 hp¹ @ 11,500 rpm
Maximum Torque 26.5 lb-ft @ 11,000 rpm
Fuel System DFI® with 34mm throttle valves (4)
Ignition TCBI with Digital Advance
Transmission 6-speed, return shift
Final Drive Chain
Electronic Rider Aids Economical Riding Indicator, Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) (3-mode), Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) (dual direction), Power Modes, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS)

 

PERFORMANCE

PERFORMANCE
Front Suspension / Wheel Travel 37mm inverted Showa fork with SFF-BP internals and spring preload adjustability/4.7 in
Rear Suspension / Wheel Travel Horizontal back-link, Showa BFRC lite gas-charged shock w/ piggyback reservoir, adjustable compression, rebound and spring preload/4.9 in
Front Tire 110/70-17
Rear Tire 160/60-17
Front Brakes Dual 290mm semi-floating discs with radial-mount 4-piston monobloc caliper and ABS
Rear Brakes Single 220mm disc with single-piston caliper and ABS

 

DETAILS

DETAILS
Frame Type Trellis, high-tensile steel
Rake/Trail 23.5°/3.8 in
Overall Length 78.3 in
Overall Width 30.1 in
Overall Height 43.7 in
Ground Clearance 5.3 in
Seat Height 31.5 in
Estimated Dry Weight 383.7 lb**
Curb Weight 414.5 lb*
Fuel Capacity 4.0 gal
Wheelbase 54.3 in
Special Features 4.3″ Full-color TFT Instrumentation, Smartphone Connectivity via RIDEOLOGY THE APP
Color Choices Lime Green, Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray/Metallic Spark Black, Pearl Robotic White/Metallic Spark Black

 

 

 

 

2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com  Canadian Specifications/Technical Details

TBA

 

 

 

 

 

2026 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR ABS – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details

Engine

Engine type

Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke In-Line Four

Displacement

399 cm³

Bore x stroke

57 x 39.1 mm

Compression ratio

12.3:1

Valve system

DOHC, 16 valves

Fuel system

Fuel Injection: Ø 34 mm x 4

Starting System

Electric

Lubrication

Forced lubrication, wet sump

 

Performance & Transmission

Maximum power

57 kW {77 PS} / 14,500 rpm

Maximum power with RAM air

58.7 kW {80 PS} / 14,500 rpm

CO2 emission

120 g/km

Maximum torque

39 N•m {4 kgf•m} / 13,000 rpm

Transmission

6-speed, return

Final drive

Sealed chain

Primary Reduction Ratio

2.029 (69/34)

Gear Ratios 1st

2.929 (41/14)

Gear Ratios 2nd

2.056 (37/18)

Gear Ratios 3rd

1.619 (34/21)

Gear Ratios 4th

1.333 (32/24)

Gear Ratios 5th

1.154 (30/26)

Gear Ratios 6th

1.037 (28/27)

Final reduction ratio

3.429 (48/14)

Clutch

Wet multi-disc

 

Brakes & Suspension

Brakes, front

Dual semi-floating ø290 mm discs. Caliper: Dual radial-mount, monobloc, opposed 4-piston

Brakes, rear

Single 220 mm disc. Caliper: Single-piston

Suspension, front

ø37 mm inverted fork (SFF-BP) with spring preload adjustability, and topout springs

Suspension, rear

Horizontal Back-link, BFRC lite gas-charged shock with piggyback reservoir, compression and rebound damping and spring preload adjustability, and top-out spring

 

Frame & Dimensions

Frame type

Trellis, high-tensile steel

Trail

97 mm

Wheel travel front

120 mm

Wheel travel rear

124 mm

Tyre, front

120/70ZR17M/C (58W)

Tyre, rear

160/60ZR17M/C (69W)

L x W x H

1,990 x 765 x 1,110 mm

Wheelbase

1,380 mm

Ground clearance

135 mm

Fuel capacity

15 litres

Seat height

800 mm

Curb mass

189 kg

 

 

 

 

 

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).

Posted on September 20, 2025 by Michael Le Pard

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