Enthusiasts would definitely want Kawasaki Ninja 400 to be re-launched in India
As part of its 2021 update, Kawasaki Ninja 400 has received two new colour options in China. Customers can now choose from Metal Twilight Blue and Metal Deep Grey. The earlier colour options of KRT Lime Green and Metallic Spark Black will continue to be available.
Design, engine, specs remain same
Apart from the new colour options, Ninja 400 will be largely the same as earlier. The bike has an aggressive front fascia with twin LED headlights, darkened windscreen, and sporty rear view mirrors.
The cockpit has a multi-function instrument console that displays a range of information including gear position. Other key features include clip-on style handlebar, low seat height, and upswept exhaust. The bike offers balanced ergonomics that’s both sporty and relaxed.
Kawasaki Ninja 400 comes with a 399cc parallel twin engine. In China, the numbers are 46 ps of max power at 9600 RPM and 37.2 Nm of peak torque at 8000 RPM. It is mated to a 6-speed transmission.
Kawasaki Ninja 400 India launch prospects
Ninja 400 was launched here in 2018 and it was counted amongst the best sub-400cc motorcycles available at that time. However, the motorcycle had limited sales in the country, primarily due to its high price tag of Rs 4.99 lakh (last known price, ex-showroom). As upgrade to BS6 would have further increased prices, it was decided to discontinue the bike. That happened in December 2019, around four months prior to the enforcement of BS6 emission norms.
It is not certain if Kawasaki is planning to reintroduce Ninja 400 in the Indian market. It is among the bikes that Kawasaki has not updated to meet stricter emission norms like Euro 5 / BS6. Apart from China, Ninja 400 is available in markets where emission norms are not that stringent. These include countries like USA and Japan.
For Ninja 400 to be viable for the Indian market, Kawasaki will have to work on reducing its price. One of its nearest rivals is KTM RC 390, which is available at a starting price of Rs 2.53 lakh. Benelli 302R is another contender, which is expected to be launched soon. It could be offered at a starting price of Rs 3.50 lakh.
Competitive pricing can be quite beneficial for a price sensitive market like India. Companies like Bajaj and Yamaha have been getting good results with their competitive pricing strategy. We have seen something similar with BMW G 310 R and G 310 GS as well. If Ninja 400 can reduce the price gap with rivals, it can deliver better results in its second innings in the country.
