The Kawasaki Ninja 400 has a strong global presence and has been an impressive entry-level sport bike since its inception. However, though updated recently, the Ninja hasn’t changed much in all these years, which has left it susceptible to attack from fellow Japanese sport bikes such as the 2023 Honda CBR250RR. Curious to know which is better between these two? Well, here’s a comparison between the CBR250RR and Ninja 400 answering exactly that.
2023 Honda CBR250RR vs Kawasaki Ninja 400 - Performance
Specification | Honda CBR250RR | Kawasaki Ninja 400 |
Engine | 249.7cc, twin-cylinder engine | 399cc, twin-cylinder engine |
Power | 41.6 horsepower | 45 horsepower (EU-spec) |
Torque | 18.44 pound-feet | 27.29 pound-feet |
Weight | 370 pounds | 369 pounds |
Fuel tank capacity | 14.5-liter | 14-liter |
Though the CBR250RR has become more powerful for 2023, it still falls 3.4 horsepower and 8.85 pound-feet short of the Kawasaki Ninja 400. The latter also has a stronger power-to-weight ratio, further strengthening its case. But hey, the 250RR has a 150cc deficit here, so we kinda saw the Ninja 400’s win coming. Don’t worry, though, as the Honda more than redeems itself in the next aspect.
2023 Honda CBR250RR vs Kawasaki Ninja 400 - Underpinnings
Specification | Honda CBR250RR | Kawasaki Ninja 400 |
Front Suspension | Showa SFF-BP USD forks | Telescopic forks |
Rear Suspension | Monoshock | Monoshock |
Front & rear brakes | Single petal discs | Single petal discs |
Tire size | F: 110/70-17 R: 140/70-17 | F: 110/70-17 R: 150/60-17 |
Ground clearance | 148mm (5.82-inch) | 140mm (5.51-inch) |
The CBR250RR is the more premium and modern offering here as it features Showa SFF-BP upside-down forks in comparison to the Ninja’s dated telescopic units. This, coupled with CBR’s slimmer rear tire, should make it a better corner carver than the Ninja 400. Oh, and the RR’s extra ground clearance should also come in handy, both on track and in day-to-day scenarios. Emphasis on “should”, though, because only a proper test can conclude these in reality.
2023 Honda CBR250RR vs Kawasaki Ninja 400 - Features & Design
Feature | Honda CBR250RR | Kawasaki Ninja 400 |
All-LED lights | Yes | Yes |
Fully digital instrument cluster | Yes | No |
Riding modes | Yes (Comfort, Sport, Sport+) | No |
Quick-shifter | Yes | No |
Slipper clutch | Yes | Yes |
Dual-channel ABS | Yes | Yes |
As always, the Ninja 400 shows its age when talking features. It boasts only the basics and is no match for the feature-rich CBR250RR, which boasts a quick-shifter, three riding modes, and a fully digital LCD. Like the features, the CBR250RR is also the fresher-looking motorcycle here, with a sporty and unique design. The Ninja 400, meanwhile, has always looked the same albeit with just new color options. Design is a subjective affair, though, so do comment down below and let us know which of these is more appealing to you.
2023 Honda CBR250RR vs Kawasaki Ninja 400 - Verdict
To conclude, the CBR250RR is certainly a more well-rounded motorcycle than the Kawasaki Ninja 400. Don’t get us wrong, the Ninja is a marvelous, well-proven entry-level motorcycle but it just feels aged in the company of newer motorcycles and we hope Kawasaki does something about it soon. Also, the CBR250RR is unavailable in European or American markets, so the Ninja 400 still remains unbeaten for availability’s sake.