Bike guides / Great first bikes

Buying a used Kawasaki Ninja 400

The default first sport bike for a lot of new riders. Mechanically it has a solid reputation. Because so many are first bikes, the main risk is tip-over damage and neglected maintenance, not the engine.

Good first bike Sold 2018 to 2023 (replaced by the Ninja 500 in 2024) 0 recalls on record

Known problems

We're still verifying common problems for this bike. Riders who've owned one can help: ask about this bike.

What to check on a Ninja 400

  • Check both sides for drop damage: levers, bar ends, mirrors, pegs and fairing.
  • Check that the shift lever and brake pedal are straight.
  • Inspect the chain and sprockets for neglect.
  • Confirm whether it has ABS (it affects price and resale).
  • Check that aftermarket turn signals or lights work and are wired cleanly.

Do these on top of the standard walkaround. The free kit has the full list.

Safety recalls

Recalls are fixed free by a dealer, but only if someone took the bike in. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN. You can also check a VIN yourself at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

No recall campaigns found in NHTSA data for this model.

NHTSA data fetched 2026-11-03.

Is it a good first bike?

Light, low seat, gentle power, and cheap insurance. It is one of the most recommended first bikes for good reason.

Generations

Ninja 400

2018 to 2023

399cc parallel twin replacing the Ninja 300. ABS and non-ABS versions. Special editions are mostly paint.