[2021 Latest] Top 5 Recommended 400cc Motorcycles! From Pros and Cons to How to Choose

In this regard, the 400cc class offers a well-balanced ride for everything from daily use to highways and long tours.

Ample Power for Easy Highway Riding

The 400cc class has ample power, making highway riding effortless. Many models have an engine output of around 40-50ps, which is sufficient for overtaking on highways in urban areas.

Large motorcycles have so much power that a light twist of the throttle can quickly exceed 100km/h, but this power comes at the cost of a higher risk of being caught for speeding by speed cameras or the police.

In contrast, 400cc bikes have sufficient power for highway use without the violent acceleration of larger bikes, so you don't have to be overly cautious with the throttle.

Their practical and manageable power makes highway riding a breeze.

Easy to Ride Around Town

The 400cc bike is easy to ride around town due to its manageable power. Larger bikes tend to have excess power and, being large and heavy, are not suitable for city riding where tight turns are often required.

In contrast, the 400cc class has a convenient size and practical power, making it easy for city rides such as commuting, shopping, or just cruising around.

Disadvantages of 400cc (Mid-Size) Motorcycles

Source: https://pixabay.com/ja/photos/99-4207079/

After looking at the advantages of 400cc class motorcycles, let's also examine their disadvantages.

The main disadvantages are "the need for vehicle inspections" and "being more expensive than 250cc bikes."

Requires Vehicle Inspection

400cc class motorcycles require a vehicle inspection. A new vehicle must be inspected after 3 years, and then every 2 years thereafter. Compared to the 250cc class, which does not require inspections, the maintenance costs are slightly higher.

The term "vehicle inspection" might conjure images of hefty expenses, but for a 400cc bike, the statutory fees include a vehicle weight tax of 3,800 yen, compulsory automobile liability insurance for 24 months at 13,640 yen, and a stamp fee of 1,750 yen, totaling 19,190 yen, plus inspection fees.

If you perform the vehicle inspection yourself (user inspection) and conduct regular maintenance, the inspection can be passed with just the statutory fees of around 20,000 yen, which is surprisingly affordable.

Nevertheless, compared to the 250cc class, the added cost of vehicle inspections makes it feel more expensive.

More Expensive than 250cc

400cc class motorcycles tend to have a higher vehicle price compared to 250cc class bikes, which can be ridden with the same ordinary motorcycle license (up to 400cc).

While there are some 250cc models like the CBR250RR that exceed 800,000 yen, on average, 400cc bikes are more expensive.

Fuel efficiency is also often better for 250cc bikes, and including the inspection costs, maintenance expenses tend to be higher for 400cc models.

How to Choose a 400cc (Mid-Size) Motorcycle

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/CBR400R/equipment/

400cc class motorcycles are easy to handle and maneuver, suitable for everything from city riding to highways. But what criteria should you use when choosing one?

Here's how to choose a 400cc class motorcycle.

Choose Based on Design Preference

It's often said that "the bike comes first from its looks," so choosing based on your preferred design is recommended.

While it's good to look at images online, there can often be significant differences between an actual bike and its pictures.

It's recommended to visit motorcycle dealerships and choose while looking at the actual bike.

Even models that didn't catch your eye in pictures might change your impression when seen in person, so it's a good idea to go see the actual motorcycles.

You can also see other bikes, so you might stumble upon an unexpected find.

Is it the Right Size for Your Body?

If you find a motorcycle you're interested in, it's recommended to check if it's the right size for your body.

While the 400cc class is generally a manageable size, it can feel large for smaller individuals, such as women. So, try sitting on it to see if it fits your body.

If a bike doesn't fit your body size well, you'll constantly have to shift your hips significantly to put your feet down when stopping, and the risk of falling over when starting and turning also increases.

If you find a favorite bike, make sure to thoroughly check if it's a good fit for your body.

RPM at Which Maximum Torque Occurs

The RPM at which maximum torque occurs gives a general idea of how the motorcycle will ride.

Torque is the force that propels the motorcycle forward; a higher torque value means more powerful acceleration.

Bikes with a low maximum torque RPM are easier to handle at low speeds, for example, less likely to stall when starting.

Conversely, bikes with a high maximum torque RPM exert their power after the engine reaches high revolutions, making them harder to handle at low speeds.

Maximum power is the force that accelerates the bike, and higher power leads to higher top speeds. However, when choosing an easy-to-handle bike, it's better to focus on maximum torque rather than maximum power.

We surveyed 50 400cc motorcycle riders.

Experienced riders answered questions honestly about the models they ride, and the pros and cons compared to 250cc bikes. Please refer to this if you are considering a purchase.

<h3>About the survey respondents</h3>

・Please tell us about your gender

(Valid responses: 50 people)

・Please tell us about your age group

(Valid responses: 50 people)

Naked bikes are popular, with about half of riders choosing them.

・What type of 400cc motorcycle do you ride (or have you ridden)?

(Valid responses: 56 votes)

Those who answered "Other" seem to have ridden half-cowl or classic types. It appears that naked bikes have been, and continue to be, very popular.

<h3>Top 3 Models: "Honda CB400SF," "Yamaha SR400," "Yamaha DragStar 400"</h3>

・Please tell us about the models you recommend or currently ride.

Compared to 250cc and large motorcycles, what makes "400cc recommended!" appealing?

For a naked bike, it's the moderate speed you can achieve. A 250cc would struggle quite a bit on highways and bypasses, but a 400cc allows for a comfortably faster ride. (Male, 30s)

What makes it superior to a 250cc is its acceleration and stability during high-speed driving. As for large motorcycles, they are difficult to handle, and parking is often a problem in rented spaces. If you're looking for the joy of riding, not just transportation, a 400cc is recommended. (Male, 40s)

Larger bikes offer better stability, and I generally prefer bigger ones, but since I only have a mid-size license, I chose the maximum displacement I could ride, a 400cc. (Male, 50s)

The biggest appeal is that you can ride it with just an ordinary motorcycle license. While it has less power than a large motorcycle, it's sufficient for riding on public roads without getting caught by the police. With a 250cc, you noticeably feel a lack of power on inclines or when carrying a lot of luggage, but with a 400cc, you don't feel it as much. The only thing a 250cc has over it is the absence of vehicle inspections, but with self-inspection, that difference is practically negligible. (Male, 50s)

I've owned 250cc, 400cc, and large motorcycles, and the 400cc was the most stress-free to ride. Long-distance cruising on a highway with a 250cc is tiring, but a 400cc is easier to handle than a large bike, making me less hesitant to ride. It's also light and has a good seat height for women, so I recommend it to those who find a 250cc insufficient. (Female, 40s)

There are many appeals to 400cc bikes. Among them, what I find particularly attractive is that they effectively resolve the slight dissatisfaction one might feel with long tours on a 250cc.

Not only do they offer highway stability, but they also provide sufficient speed and torque on mountain roads and ordinary roads.

Large bikes honestly have power that's often overkill, so I think the 400cc is just the right size.

There are also many custom parts available, and since there's a variety, they can be bought relatively cheaply, allowing you to express your own originality. (Male, 30s)

For long-distance touring or highway use, a 400cc is definitely more recommended than a 250cc. Some might think there isn't much difference, but especially on highways, it provides a sense of security. Smaller vehicles are more likely to be tailgated by cars... Also, compared to large motorcycles, it's easier to handle. (Female, 30s)

The stability at high speeds is different! The behavior is more settled, and it's smooth from low speeds. Above all, the exhaust sound of a 400cc bike is its most appealing feature! (Female, 50s)

The balance between power and ease of operation is just right, making it very versatile and useful for both city riding and long-distance touring. (Male, 20s)

When purchasing a motorcycle, what points did you focus on when choosing, what were your reasons, and what tips do you have for choosing?

Ride comfort, stability during riding, ease of picking it up if it falls. And most importantly, how affordable it was. (Female, 30s)

I wanted to ride a Harley-Davidson, but it was too big and expensive, and I didn't have a large motorcycle license, so I rode a 400cc American cruiser. However, 400cc domestic American cruisers are quite customizable, they don't look bad, and there are enough models to choose from, so I think it's sufficient if you're not fixated on a Harley. (Male, 40s)

If you're a beginner, you should choose an affordable motorcycle with plenty of advice available. This not only gives you peace of mind but also allows you to learn about motorcycles while studying. (Male, 30s)

The most important factors were design and shape, followed by ride comfort and convenience.

Basically, motorcycles are inconvenient vehicles compared to cars, so it's important to choose one that you genuinely like and enjoy riding.

I recommend starting by buying and riding a type of motorcycle you're interested in to learn about bikes.

Sit on your favorite bike, go to places you want to visit, and experience things along the way.

Touring offers such wonderful times. (Male, 30s)

First and foremost is the design. While I have favorite manufacturers, there are cool designs even from brands I don't typically follow. Some people are loyal to one manufacturer, and that's also wonderful! However, no matter how cool the design, if it doesn't match my riding position when I sit on it at the store, I'll give up on it. Unlike cars with soft, comfortable seats, even a slightly awkward posture on a motorcycle can become truly painful. It's sad if riding becomes uncomfortable. So, choose carefully! (Male, 30s)

I had ridden various other models before, and I had just purchased a Ninja a few weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic, a bike I had never ridden before. As I live and work in Tokyo, I haven't been able to go on many long trips or ride much during the pandemic, but on the few occasions I did, I was struck by the Ninja's lightness and maneuverability, which seemed incredible for a 400cc. (Male, 50s)

What I first focused on was the appearance. I like black, so I chose something simple yet rugged. After that, it was the comfort of the seat when riding. (Female, 20s)

When purchasing a motorcycle, there were three points I particularly focused on:

First, it had to be a naked bike; second, the color; and third, since it would become a part of my daily life, it had to look cool.

Of course, foot placement is important, and it would be problematic if I couldn't pick it up if it fell over. However, for me, the three points mentioned earlier were more crucial.

When buying a motorcycle now, I think about what I'll do with it, where I'll go, and what kind of life I'll lead with it, all while looking at magazines and real bikes.

As for tips on choosing, don't be shy; ask the shop staff about anything you don't understand about the bike you like. There will always be moments of "it wasn't supposed to be like this" or "I thought it would be different."

Make sure they clearly explain what you don't understand, and don't buy from a shop that seems bothered by your questions. (Male, 30s)

For a used bike, I searched online to see if the price was reasonable for the mileage. It's crucial to check for scratches or accident damage.

For new or used bikes, I think it's important to actually sit on them and check the feel and fit. (Female, 30s)

Even among 400cc bikes, the foot placement varies greatly, so when actually buying, it's best to straddle the bike to check the foot placement and fit! If possible, test ride it, as each manufacturer's bike has its own quirks and handling characteristics. So, the trick to choosing might be to ride and touch various bikes to find one that suits you. (Female, 50s)

In the past, I used to choose between 2-stroke and 4-stroke, or racer and naked bikes. 2-strokes had excellent revs, quick starts, and thrilling acceleration. However, they were kick-start. 4-strokes were easier with electric start and offered stable rides, and the crisp engine sound was electrifying. Both styles were cool; 2-strokes had twin exhaust chamber pipes, while 4-strokes had a single exhaust from a collective pipe. If you want to enjoy acceleration with a high-pitched sound, go for 2-stroke. If you prefer a stable ride with a deep sound, 4-stroke is the way to go. (Male, 40s)

Top 5 Recommended 400cc Motorcycles

Here are five recommended 400cc class motorcycles.

We've selected bikes from four Japanese manufacturers across different genres, so we hope this helps you in your choice.

1. Kawasaki Z400

Source: https://www.kawasaki-motors.com/mc/lineup/z400/

The Kawasaki Z400, launched as a new model in 2019, inherits the Z400 name from a model sold in the 1970s.

It's a naked model based on the Ninja 400, powered by a liquid-cooled 4-stroke parallel-twin engine that produces 48ps of maximum power and 38N·m of maximum torque.

With torque kicking in from around 2,000rpm, it's easy to ride at low speeds, and it offers powerful acceleration as it revs towards 6,000rpm, making it very manageable.

Equipped with "Assist & Slipper Clutch" to aid clutch operation, it reduces fatigue even during long rides.

• Maximum Torque: 38N・m
• Maximum Output: 48ps
• Body Size (L x W x H): 1,990mm x 800mm x 1,055mm
• Weight: 166kg
• New Vehicle Price: 682,000 yen

2. Honda CBR400R

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/CBR400R/type/

The Honda CBR400R, first launched in the 1980s, disappeared from the lineup when the more sporty and advanced CBR400RR was introduced, only to be resurrected in 2013 as a road sport type motorcycle.

It offers a powerful and torquey ride across the entire range, from low to mid-speeds commonly used in city riding to high revolutions on highways and race tracks.

It features an assist slipper clutch, an auxiliary mechanism that allows for lighter clutch operation.

Its styling is beautiful, with the dual headlights on the front giving a particularly sharp impression.

This is a recommended bike for those looking for a sporty 400cc motorcycle.

• Maximum Torque: 38N・m
• Maximum Output: 46ps
• Body Size (L x W x H): 2,080mm x 755mm x 1,145mm
• Weight: 192kg
• New Vehicle Price: 808,500 yen

3. Yamaha SR400

Source: https://www.yamaha-motor.co.jp/mc/lineup/sr400/color.html

The Yamaha SR400 is a classic-style motorcycle with a strong fan base.

Since its debut in 1978, its basic design has remained consistent, undergoing several minor model changes, and it has become a long-selling model still available new as of 2021.

It was temporarily discontinued in 2008 due to exhaust emission regulations but revived in 2009. Eight years later, in 2017, it was again halted due to emission regulations but was revived in 2018 and continues to be sold to this day (as of June 2021).

It features a crisp and comfortable single-cylinder engine, and many fans love the SR's sound.

The SR's engine and design are so simple that once you ride it, you'll want to keep riding it forever—that's its charm.

• Maximum Torque: 28N・m
• Maximum Output: 24ps
• Body Size (L x W x H): 2,085mm x 750mm x 1,100mm
• Weight: 175kg
• New Vehicle Price: 605,000 yen

4. Honda 400X

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/400X/type/

The Honda 400X, a crossover type, first appeared in 2013, sharing its engine and frame with the CBR400R.

It is equipped with a liquid-cooled in-line 2-cylinder engine, which provides tenacious power characteristics from low to mid-speeds, making it particularly easy to handle in urban areas.

It features a distinctive style with an irregular-section short muffler.

The wheels incorporate Y-shaped spokes that combine flexibility and rigidity, allowing it to handle various road surfaces.

This motorcycle is suitable for any riding scene, whether urban areas, highways, or forest roads.

• Maximum Torque: 38N・m
• Maximum Output: 46ps
• Body Size (L x W x H): 2,140mm x 825mm x 1,380mm
• Weight: 196kg
• New Vehicle Price: 826,100 yen

5. Suzuki Bandit 400

Source: https://lrnc.cc/_ct/16855956

The Suzuki Bandit 400 debuted in 1989.

At its launch, it featured a distinctive pipe frame and a liquid-cooled 4-cylinder engine, boasting a maximum output of 58ps, significantly exceeding that of currently available 400cc sport models.

It also had a rich lineup of derivative models, such as the Bandit LTD with a bikini cowl and the Bandit V with a variable valve engine.

Although production ended in 1997 due to exhaust gas regulations, it remains a naked bike supported by a loyal fan base even today.

• Maximum Torque: 37.2N・m
• Maximum Output: 53ps
• Body Size (L x W x H): 2,050mm x 720mm x 1,115mm
• Weight: 192kg
• Used Car Market Price: Around 150,000 to 150,000 yen

Summary

Source: https://www.honda.co.jp/400X/equipment/

We've discussed the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of 400cc class motorcycles.

While this class was once a focus for manufacturers, the lineup has been shrinking in recent years as it has become easier to obtain a large motorcycle license.

However, because manufacturers once put a lot of effort into this class, there are still many high-quality models available.

Find your favorite 400cc bike and enjoy the ride.