Motorcycles: Yamaha MT-07 vs. Kawasaki Ninja 400

Quick Verdict

The Yamaha MT-07 offers a more powerful and thrilling riding experience with its larger engine and higher output, making it suitable for experienced riders seeking performance. The Kawasaki Ninja 400, with its lighter weight, lower seat height, and smooth power delivery, is an excellent choice for new riders or those prioritizing ease of handling and fuel efficiency.

The Yamaha MT-07 has a larger engine displacement and significantly more horsepower and torque compared to the Kawasaki Ninja 400.
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is lighter and has a lower seat height, making it more accessible and easier to handle, especially for new riders.
Both bikes have ABS and similar fuel capacity, but the Ninja 400 boasts slightly better fuel economy.
The Ninja 400 is considered more suitable for new riders due to its approachable power and smooth ride, while the MT-07's power delivery might be challenging for beginners.

Key features – Side-by-Side

Attribute	Yamaha MT-07	Kawasaki Ninja 400
Engine Displacement (cc)	689 cc (655 cc LAMS version available)	399
Horsepower (HP)	73.4 PS (72.4 bhp) @ 8,750 rpm / 66.85 hp @ 9,200 rpm (rear wheel dyno) / Approximately 75 hp	44.7/45/49 @ 10,000 rpm, 43.3 @ 9,900 rpm (rear wheel)
Torque (Nm)	67 Nm @ 6,500 rpm / 61.57 N	37 @ 8,000 rpm
Wet Weight (kg)	179-181 kg / 183 kg / 184 kg	168
Seat Height (mm)	805 mm	785
Fuel Capacity (L)	14 L	14
Fuel Economy (km/L)	Claimed: 24.2 km/L	26.7 (ARAI), ~27 (owner reported)
Front Suspension Type	41mm KYB inverted fork or Conventional telescopic forks	Telescopic fork / 120 mm (41mm telescopic fork)
Rear Suspension Type	KYB single shock, adjustable preload and rebound damping; 5.1-in travel	Swingarm / 130 mm, Uni Trak
Braking System (ABS)	ABS. Dual 298mm front discs and a 245mm rear disc	Dual Channel ABS, Front: 310 mm semi-floating petal disc, Rear: 193 mm disc
Tire Size (Front)	120/70ZR17	110/70 - 17
Tire Size (Rear)	180/55ZR17	150/60 - 17
Price	Not available	Not available
Suitable for New Riders	Powerful and torquey, which can be challenging for a new rider	Ideal for new riders due to its approachable power, smooth ride, and low seat height

Overall Comparison

Yamaha MT-07: 689cc, 73.4 HP, 67 Nm torque, 179 kg weight. Kawasaki Ninja 400: 399cc, 49 HP, 37 Nm torque, 168 kg weight, 27 km/L fuel economy.

Pros and Cons

Yamaha MT-07

Pros:

Agile and suitable for city streets due to its light weight
CP2 engine is considered tried and true and bulletproof
Deep, guttural growl from its exhaust

Cons:

May start to feel breathless at high speeds
Doesn't offer much wind protection
Powerful and torquey, which can be challenging for a new rider

Kawasaki Ninja 400

Pros:

Smooth power delivery from 3,000 RPM
Comfortable seat for long rides (may firm up after 90 minutes)
Nimble chassis
Planted at highway speeds
Large front disc brake and ABS
Robust and reliable engine
Fairing deflects most turbulence at speeds under 110 km/h (68 mph)
Ideal for new riders due to its approachable power, smooth ride, and low seat height

Cons:

Crosswinds can affect the lightweight frame
Taller riders might want more wind coverage at highway speeds

User Experiences and Feedback

Yamaha MT-07

What Users Love

No highlights reported.

Common Complaints

No major complaints reported.

Value Perception

No value feedback reported.

Kawasaki Ninja 400

What Users Love

Easy to handle in stop-and-go traffic
Comfortable for long rides
Remains planted at highway speeds
Effective brakes in emergency situations
Reliable engine
Good wind protection at lower highway speeds
Easy to learn to ride

Common Complaints

Seat may firm up after 90 minutes
Affected by crosswinds
Wind protection may be insufficient for taller riders at higher speeds

Value Perception

Good fuel economy (around 27 kmpl)
Aftermarket accessories available (rear shocks, brake pads/discs, ABS delete kits)

User Recommendations

Smooth power delivery from 3,000 RPM, making it easy to handle in stop-and-go traffic.
Seat is reported to be comfortable for long rides, but may firm up after 90 minutes.
Nimble chassis and remains planted at highway speeds, though crosswinds can affect the lightweight frame.
Large front disc brake and ABS to help reduce wheel lock-up.
Engine is considered robust and reliable.
Fairing deflects most turbulence at speeds under 110 km/h (68 mph).
Ideal for new riders due to its approachable power, smooth ride, and low seat height.