Maintaining your Kawasaki Ninja 400 properly ensures longevity, safety, and peak performance. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend rider, or an occasional track lover, keeping up with regular maintenance is important to ensure your motorcycle runs smoothly and efficiently. Routine servicing not only enhances your riding experience but also prevents costly repairs down the line.
This guide provides a comprehensive maintenance schedule, cost estimates, and officially recommended Kawasaki Ninja 400 parts and fluids, ensuring you follow manufacturer guidelines for optimal performance. By adhering to these recommendations, you can extend the lifespan of your bike, maintain its resale value, and ride with confidence knowing your bike is in top condition. Whether you’re planning to handle basic maintenance yourself or take it to a professional service center, this detailed guide will help you understand the essential steps to keep your motorcycle in peak shape.
Kawasaki Ninja 400 Maintenance Schedule
This schedule follows Kawasaki’s official recommendations for routine maintenance.
Daily Pre-Ride Checks
- ✔ Fuel Level – Ensure sufficient fuel.
- ✔ Ninja 400 Oil Change – Check oil level.
- ✔ Tires – Inspect pressure and tread wear.
- ✔ Drive Chain – Check for slack and lubrication.
- ✔ Bolts & Nuts – Look for loose fasteners.
- ✔ Brakes – Ensure brake fluid is at proper level.
- ✔ Throttle & Clutch – Check for smooth operation.
- ✔ Coolant Level – Verify it’s within recommended levels.
- ✔ Lights & Indicators – Make sure all electrical components function.
Performing these daily pre-ride checks ensures that your Kawasaki Ninja 400 remains safe and reliable for every ride. Regular inspections help detect potential issues early, preventing costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns. Keeping fluids at optimal levels, ensuring proper tire pressure, and maintaining brake functionality all contribute to a smoother, safer riding experience.
Periodic Maintenance Schedule (Mileage or Time-Based)
Estimated Maintenance Costs
Annual Maintenance Cost Estimate:
- DIY: ~$200-$400 per year
- Shop Service: ~$400-$800 per year
Best Recommended Items for Maintenance (Official Kawasaki Recommendations)
Below are the officially recommended fluids, filters, lubricants, and parts from Kawasaki’s owner’s manual.
1. Engine Oil & Ninja 400 Oil Filter
- Recommended Oil:
- Kawasaki Performance 4-Stroke Motorcycle Oil
- API SG, SH, SJ, SL, or SM with JASO MA, MA1, or MA2 rating
- Viscosity: SAE 10W-40
- Capacity:
- With filter change: 2.0 L (2.1 US qt)
- Without filter change: 1.6 L (1.7 US qt)
- Recommended Oil Filter:
- Kawasaki 16097-0008
- Alternative: Hiflofiltro HF303 or K&N KN-303
2. Air Filter
- OEM Air Filter: Kawasaki 11013-0031
- Performance Option: K&N KA-4007 (reusable)
3. Coolant
- OEM Kawasaki AlumaCool Engine Coolant
- Alternative: Any 50/50 premixed ethylene glycol-based coolant (free of silicates)
4. Brake Fluid
- OEM Kawasaki DOT 4 Brake Fluid
- Alternative: Any high-quality DOT 4 brake fluid (Motul, Castrol, or Prestone)
5. Drive Chain Maintenance
- Recommended Lubricant:
- Kawasaki KLR Chain Lube
- Alternative: Motul Chain Paste or Maxima Chain Wax
- Recommended Chain Cleaner:
- Motul C1 Chain Clean or Maxima Chain Cleaner
6. Ninja 400 spark plugs
- OEM Spark Plug: NGK LMAR9G (Factory Recommended)
- Gap: 0.7 – 0.8 mm (0.028 – 0.031 in)
7. Valve Clearance Adjustment (Every 12,000 miles)
- Requires shims and proper tools – Best done by professionals.
8. Battery
- OEM Battery: Furukawa FTX9-BS
- Alternative: Yuasa YTX9-BS (maintenance-free)
9. Tires (Standard OEM & Recommended Upgrades)
- OEM Front Tire: Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 – 110/70R17
- OEM Rear Tire: Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 – 150/60R17
- Recommended Upgrade: Michelin Road 5, Pirelli Diablo Rosso III
Tips for Reducing Maintenance Costs
- DIY Maintenance: Changing oil, chain lubrication, and air filter replacement can save hundreds per year.
- Here a complete video of the Ninja 400 maintenance for your help. You will need a kawasaki ninja 400 oil change kit
- Regular Cleaning & Lubrication: Keeping the bike clean and well-lubricated extends part life.
- Use Quality Parts & Fluids: OEM Kawasaki or trusted third-party brands help maintain reliability.
Final Thoughts
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is an affordable and reliable motorcycle, provided it receives regular maintenance. Using officially recommended Kawasaki parts and fluids ensures optimal performance and durability. By following this maintenance schedule and performing simple DIY tasks, you can save money while keeping your Ninja 400 running smoothly.
