In a market dominated by mid-capacity performance motorcycles, Kawasaki has dropped a surprise for enthusiasts — the Ninja ZX-4R is now ₹40,000 more affordable. The price cut, effective May 2025, slashes the ex-showroom tag from ₹8.49 lakh to ₹8.09 lakh (standard variant). This strategic move places the ZX-4R in a more competitive position, especially for riders craving high-revving performance from an inline-four engine without leaping into the liter-class segment.
Here’s a crisp breakdown of what this price drop means for potential buyers, and how the ZX-4R stacks up against rivals.
Why the ZX-4R Matters
The Kawasaki ZX-4R is a unicorn in its class — the only fully faired supersport under 500cc with a screaming inline-four engine. This configuration, once reserved for larger bikes, delivers a visceral performance unmatched by twin-cylinder rivals.
With this price revision, Kawasaki is making the inline-four thrill more accessible, targeting young enthusiasts and experienced riders looking for a compact track-ready machine.
Key Specifications: Kawasaki ZX-4R (2025)
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 399cc, inline-four, liquid-cooled |
| Power Output | 76.4 bhp @ 14,500 rpm (with Ram Air) |
| Torque | 39 Nm @ 13,000 rpm |
| Gearbox | 6-speed with slipper clutch |
| Weight (Kerb) | 189 kg |
| Suspension | Showa SFF-BP (USD front), mono rear |
| Brakes | Dual front discs, radial calipers |
| Electronics | Ride modes, traction control, quickshifter |
| Price (After Discount) | ₹8.09 lakh (ex-showroom) |
Pros: What Makes It Stand Out
- Performance Engine: The inline-four revs past 15,000 rpm, offering a race-bred experience.
- Premium Hardware: Adjustable suspension and top-tier brakes provide superior track manners.
- Feature-Rich: Comes with riding modes, bi-directional quickshifter, and traction control — rare in this segment.
- Exclusivity: Few bikes offer this combination under ₹10 lakh.
Cons: What You Should Consider
- High Price Still: Even with the ₹40,000 cut, the ZX-4R remains pricey for a 400cc bike.
- Practicality: Not ideal for daily city commutes or pillion use.
- Low-End Torque: Inline-fours in this segment can feel underwhelming at lower RPMs.
- Stiff Competition from Twins: Rivals like the Yamaha R3 or KTM RC 390 offer better value if outright performance is not your priority.
Comparison: ZX-4R vs Rivals
| Model | Engine | Power | Price (Ex-SR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kawasaki ZX-4R | 399cc inline-four | 76.4 bhp | ₹8.09 lakh |
| Yamaha R3 | 321cc twin | 42 bhp | ₹4.65 lakh |
| KTM RC 390 | 373cc single | 44 bhp | ₹3.39 lakh |
| Aprilia RS 457 | 457cc twin | 47 bhp | ₹4.25 lakh |
Should You Buy It Now?
If you’re a rider who values rev-happy performance, track-focused hardware, and Japanese reliability, the ZX-4R is now more compelling than ever. The price cut makes it slightly more accessible, but it’s still a premium offering for a niche audience.
For daily usability or budget-conscious buyers, options like the Aprilia RS 457 or RC 390 make more practical sense. But if your heart’s set on an inline-four symphony and you want a bike that’s as thrilling as it is rare, the Kawasaki ZX-4R is your ticket to the supersport league without breaking into the liter class.
