Naked Motorcycles
1981Kawasaki Z 400 J
19 fields on record
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 400 J is a lightweight naked bike ideal for novice riders seeking an accessible entry into motorcycling. Its modest 27 horsepower from a four-cylinder engine delivers smooth, manageable power with impressive fuel efficiency. Best known for reliable everyday performance and nimble handling, this air-cooled middleweight remains a popular choice for commuting and casual riding.
- Capacity
- 399.0 ccm
- Engine
- In-line four, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Wet weight
- 210.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 8000 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- It was built as an accessible small-displacement naked bike for everyday commuting and learning classic four-cylinder character rather than outright performance.
- Built for
- The air-cooled inline-four DOHC engine gives a smooth, characterful buzz and classic retro appeal rather than raw speed.
- Not ideal for
- It is not the right choice for riders seeking serious highway touring range, passenger comfort, or off-road capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 399.0 ccm
- Power
- 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 8000 RPM
- Engine type
- In-line four, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.1286 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 52.0 x 47.0 mm
- Compression
- 9.5:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 154.0 km/h (95.7 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake
- Front tyre
- 3.25-19
- Rear tyre
- 3.75-18
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1980 | 1981 | 1982 | 1983 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 399 cc | 399 cc | 399 cc | 399 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 16.5 L | 16.5 L | 16.5 L | 16.5 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Kawasaki Z 400 J?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 400 J has a Capacity of 399.0 ccm (24.35 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki Z 400 J have?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 400 J has a Power of 27.0 HP (19.9 kW) @ 8000 RPM.
How many gears does the Kawasaki Z 400 J have?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 400 J has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
How much does the Kawasaki Z 400 J weigh?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 400 J has a Wet weight of 210.0 kg (463.0 pounds).
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