Affordable and accessible: Meet the new member of Kawasaki’s ZX-4 Series
Kawasaki continues to bolster its presence in the small-displacement sportbike category with the introduction of the ZX-4R, joining the ZX-4RR that made its debut earlier in 2023. Sharing the same 399cc inline-four engine as the RR, the ZX-4R is positioned as a slightly more budget-friendly option in the lineup, with a price tag of $9,399 compared to the RR’s $9,899 ($10,099 for the KRT Edition).
The primary distinction between the ZX-4R and ZX-4RR lies in their suspension setups. Both utilize a 37mm Showa Separate Function Fork – Big Piston (SFF-BP) fork, but the R model lacks spring preload adjustment in its front suspension. Additionally, the ZX-4R features a Showa shock with adjustable spring preload only, while the RR boasts a higher-spec Showa Balance Free Rear Cushion (BFRC) lite shock with full adjustability.
To further distinguish the models, Kawasaki has excluded the bidirectional quickshifter, a standard feature on the RR, from the ZX-4R. Furthermore, the R variant is offered in a single color option—Metallic Spark Black.
Apart from these differences, the ZX-4R shares all other characteristics with its RR counterpart. This includes the robust 399cc inline-four engine, a steel-trellis frame, and radial-mount four-piston front brake calipers for reliable stopping power.
The electronics package remains consistent across both models, featuring four ride modes (Sport, Road, Rain, and Rider), a three-level Kawasaki TRaction Control (KTRC) system, and two power modes (Full and Low). While Sport, Road, and Rain riding modes come with preset settings, Rider mode grants riders the flexibility to customize KTRC and power mode preferences. All electronic adjustments are conveniently managed through a 4.3-inch TFT display.
Kawasaki’s introduction of the ZX-4R reaffirms the brand’s commitment to offering a diverse range of sportbike options, catering to riders who seek affordability without compromising on performance and style.