Kawasaki Z400 Special (1974-75)

The Kawasaki Z400 Special was produced from 1974-75 and featured a four-stroke, parallel twin-cylinder engine with a capacity of 398cc. It had a compression ratio of 9.4:1 and a maximum power output of 36 horsepower at 8500 rpm, with 3.3 kgf-m of torque at 7500 rpm. The bike featured a tubular double-cradle frame and telescopic fork front suspension with a swing-arm rear suspension. The front brakes were a single 226mm disc while the rear brakes were a 180mm drum. It had a 5-speed transmission and a chain final drive. The bike was 2080mm in length, 775mm wide, and 1050mm tall, with a wheelbase of 1370mm and a dry weight of 175kg. The fuel capacity was 14 liters, or 3.6 US gallons. A road test conducted by Bike Magazine praised the bike’s handling and enjoyable riding experience.

Technical specifications:

Make Model: Kawasaki Z 400

Year: 1974 – 75
Engine: Four stroke, parallel twin cylinder, SOHC, 2 Valve per cylinder.
Capacity: 398 cc / 24.2 cu-in
Bore x Stroke: 64 62 mm
Compression Ratio: 9.4:1
Cooling System: Air cooled
Lubrication: Forced lubrication, wet sump
Induction: Keihin CVB3 6caburetor
Ignition: Battery & coil
Starting: Electric & kick
Max Power: 36 hp / 26.8 kW @ 8500 rpm
Max Torque: 3.3 kgf-m / 23.8 lb-ft @ 7500 rpm
Transmission: 5 Speed
Final Drive: Chain
Frame: Tubular, double cradle
Front Suspension: Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension: Swing arm
Front Brakes: Single 226mm disc
Rear Brakes: 180mm Drum
Front Tyre: 3.25 – S18 4PR
Rear Tyre: 3.50 – SIB 4PR
Rake: 27 degrees
Trail: 104 mm / 4.1 in
Dimensions: Length 2080 mm / 81.9 in Width 775 mm / 30.5 in Length 1050 mm / 41.3 in
Wheelbase: 1370 mm / 53.9 In
Ground Clearance: 125 mm / 4.9 in
Dry Weight: 175 kg / 386 lbs
Fuel Capacity: 14 Litres / 3.6 US gal
Road Test: Bike Magazine