Selecting the fastest 400cc motorcycles involves more than just looking at top speed. It’s about how various factors come together to create an exceptional riding experience. While top speed is a key metric, achieving and sustaining it really counts. A lighter curb weight contributes to faster acceleration and agile handling, making the bike not only fast but also nimble and responsive.
Horsepower and torque are essential for a thrilling ride. Horsepower provides the engine’s raw power, enabling high speeds, while torque delivers a strong, immediate burst of acceleration. Both factors combine to give you a bike that feels lively and powerful, accelerating quickly and reaching top speeds with ease.
Engine configuration and displacement also play a crucial role in performance. The engine design affects how power is delivered, whether it’s through smooth, high-revving power or strong low-end torque. Displacement, or engine size, influences the bike’s power output, balancing performance with control. Considering these elements together gives a full picture of which 400cc motorcycles excel in speed and overall riding enjoyment.
Top 8 Fastest 400cc Motorcycles in 2024
| Motorcycle Model | Category | 0-60 mph | Top Speed | Horsepower | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR | Fastest Today | 4.0 sec | 151 mph | 76.4 hp | 28.8 lb.-ft. |
| Kove 450RR | Best Lightweight | 4.2 sec | 137 mph | 69.7 hp | 28.7 lb.-ft. |
| Kawasaki Ninja 400 | Best Value | 4.35 sec | 116.7 mph | 44.8 hp | 28.8 lb.-ft. |
| Kawasaki Z400 | Best Comfort | 4.5 sec | 112 mph | 44 hp | 28 lb.-ft. |
| KTM RC 390 | Best Track-Ready | 4.24 sec | 112.5 mph | 44 hp | 27.3 lb-ft |
| Triumph Speed 400 | Best Handling | 4.2 sec | 110 mph | 39.5 hp | 27.5 lb.-ft. |
| Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 | Best Urban Style | 4.1 sec | 110 mph | 45 hp | 27.3 lb.-ft. |
| KTM 390 Duke | Best Performance | 4.0 sec | 105 mph | 44.3 hp | 28.8 lb.-ft. |
As a rider with over 50 years of motorcycle experience, I know that speed isn’t the only thing that matters. So, when I put together my list of the top 8 fastest 400cc motorcycles, I evaluated each bike on more than just top speed. My range is specific—between 373cc (KTM RC 390) and 443cc (Kove 450RR), with 399cc being the sweet spot.
I also considered curb weight, horsepower, torque, acceleration, and engine configuration—because every factor plays a crucial role in how a bike performs on the road. From the adrenaline of quick acceleration to the smoothness of high-speed handling, every detail counts.
For this list, I limited my choices to motorcycles that reach at least 105 mph in top speed, as higher speeds often indicate greater power and stability at fast paces. To ensure fairness, instead of focusing on quarter-mile times under 10 or 12 seconds, I analyzed their 0 to 60 mph times, capping the selections at a maximum of 4.5 seconds. And just to be clear, I’m only considering production models—no concept bikes, customs, or racing-only machines.
Acceleration times can vary due to rider skill, track surface, and weather conditions, so even identical bikes may perform differently. With that said, here are my 2024 picks:
1. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR, building on the legacy of the Indonesian ZX25R, brings a fresh surge of excitement into the realm of small-displacement sport bikes, especially for those who thought the era of high-revving inline-fours was long gone. With a compact 399cc engine that pushes the limits, this bike offers a unique combination of speed, power, and tech, making it an exception in the 400cc class.
A High-Revving Powerhouse
The ZX-4RR’s performance is its most defining feature. With an estimated 76.4 horsepower in Europe (rising to 79 hp with ram-air), it’s not just the most powerful 400cc sport bike but also the fastest, capable of reaching a top speed of 151 mph.
The U.S. model, though capped at around 56.3 horsepower, still delivers an impressive riding experience, with the engine screaming all the way up to 15,000 rpm. Its 0-60 mph time of 4.0 seconds is remarkable, giving you a thrill that’s often reserved for much larger bikes.
Superb Handling and Rider Aids
Despite its relatively small engine, the ZX-4RR is equipped like a full-fledged superbike. The Showa suspension ensures precise handling, while the 3-stage traction control and quick-shifter make for an engaging ride, whether you’re navigating city streets or hitting the track. The TFT display adds a modern touch, displaying all the critical information with clarity and style.
Bold and Ready for Action
With Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) graphics, the ZX-4RR looks as fast as it rides. The aggressive, track-inspired design ensures that this bike turns heads, and its 415-pound curb weight means it’s agile enough to carve corners with ease.
High Performance, High Cost
While the 2024 ZX-4RR offers superbike-level features, all of this technology comes with a price—$9,899, which puts it at per with larger Kawasaki Z900, making the ZX-4RR one of the pricier options in the 400cc segment. But for those seeking the adrenaline-pumping experience of an inline-four in a lightweight package, the price is likely worth it.
2. Kove 450RR
The Kove 450RR is an exciting addition to the growing small-capacity, multicylinder sportbike market, and it’s gearing up to challenge the likes of the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR with its own unique blend of power, weight savings, and aggressive pricing.
Punchy Performance in a Small Package
Driving the Kove 450RR is a 443cc four-cylinder engine that packs a serious punch, producing an impressive 69.7 horsepower at 13,000 rpm, along with 28.7 lb.-ft. of torque at 10,500 rpm. Its redline reaches a screaming 16,000 rpm, which is higher than the ZX-4RR’s, giving it a thrilling powerband. It’s clear this bike is built for riders who love to rev.
The central air intake, once prominent on the 400RR but now nearly hidden on the production version, also provides a ram-air boost at speeds over 93 mph, adding an extra 3 horsepower and bringing the total to 73 hp.
While the Kove might fall short of the Ninja ZX-4RR’s top speed of 151 mph, it still commands a respectable 137 mph in its stock form. But the Kove’s 51-pound weight advantage (curb weight of 364 pounds) gives it a better power-to-weight ratio, meaning it might have quicker acceleration, especially with its torque kicking in earlier.
Lightweight and Agile: A Rider’s Dream
The Kove 450RR benefits from its lightweight trellis frame, weighing in at just 15.4 pounds, which contributes to its overall 364-pound curb weight. The lightness gives it an agile, responsive feel that’s likely to be appreciated in both street and track environments. The low seat height of 31.3 inches (adjustable to 30.7 inches) makes it more accessible to a wide range of riders, adding to its appeal.
Kove vs. Kawasaki: A Head-to-Head Battle
When compared directly with the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR, the Kove has several advantages, but also some trade-offs:
- Power: The Ninja edges out the Kove in raw horsepower, with the Kawasaki delivering 76.4 hp (and 79 hp with ram-air). But Kove’s no slouch at 69.7 hp, and that gap narrows when you factor in Kove’s ram-air effect.
- Torque: Kove’s 28.7 lb.-ft. of torque beats the Ninja’s estimated 27.5 lb.-ft., and the Kove delivers its torque earlier, which could translate to faster acceleration off the line.
- Weight: The Kove’s 51-pound weight advantage gives it a better power-to-weight ratio—0.192 HP per pound vs. 0.184 HP per pound for the Ninja.
- Top Speed: The Ninja tops out at 151 mph, while the Kove falls a bit behind at 137 mph.
Pricing: The Kove’s Biggest Edge
Perhaps the biggest reason to look at the Kove 450RR is the price. In China, it starts at just over $5,000, with the Performance version coming in at around $5,600. That’s a steal compared to the Ninja ZX-4RR, which commands nearly $10,000. Even if international buyers face some additional costs due to import duties, the Kove still represents significant savings over its competitors.
Availability and What to Expect
Right now, the Kove 450RR is mainly available in China, but the company has ambitions to expand globally, with a presence already forming in the U.S. Whether the bike will retain its full power in other markets is still up in the air, but if Kove follows the path set by its FSE 450R Rally, we’re likely to see this small-displacement sportbike remain a highly affordable option for riders everywhere.
3. Kawasaki Ninja 400
If you thought the Ninja 300 set a high bar, the Kawasaki Ninja 400 takes that bar and raises it to new heights. It redefines what a 400cc sportbike can offer, combining performance, style, and value in a way that’s tough to beat in this class.
A Performance Leader
At the heart of the Ninja 400 is a 399cc parallel-twin engine, and that’s where the magic happens. With 44 horsepower—a solid jump from the Ninja 300’s 39 hp—and a flat torque curve of 27 lb.-ft. compared to the Ninja 300’s 20 lbs-ft., it delivers a thrilling yet smooth ride that’s exciting from the get-go to both beginners and seasoned riders alike, rivaling even long-standing KTM RC 390.
Accelerate with Precision
The Ninja 400 knows how to put that power to good use. With a 0-60 mph time of just 4.14 seconds, it easily outpaces the Ninja 300’s 5.6 seconds, and you can feel the thrill right off the line, making it one of the quickest in its class. Open the throttle, and this beast hits an impressive top speed of 112 mph, edging out the Ninja 300’s 110 mph. No doubt about it, it’s fast, agile, and always ready to unleash its full potential on the open road.
Lightweight and Agile
At just 371 pounds, the Ninja 400 is noticeably 8 pounds lighter than the Ninja 300’s 379 pounds, and that reduction in weight directly enhances agility. Whether you’re navigating city streets or attacking tight corners, its nimble handling makes every ride feel effortless and fun.
Aggressive Styling Meets Practicality
The Ninja 400’s design pulls inspiration from Kawasaki’s supersport lineup, with a look that’s aggressive and race-inspired. It resembles the ZX-6R and ZX-10R, giving it an unmistakable presence on the road. It look as fierce as it performs.
And with a starting price of $5,299, it offers tremendous value for riders looking for a stylish yet affordable sportbike. For those who are just getting started or prefer a little extra safety, spending the extra $400 for the ABS model is worth every penny. The added control and stability, especially in tricky conditions, make it a wise choice.
Excellence Extends Beyond the Streets
If you need proof that the Ninja 400 is more than just a pretty face, look no further than the Supersport 300 World Championship. The bike’s pedigree is track-tested and rider-approved, earning its spot as the go-to choice for competitive racing. It isn’t just a commuter bike—it’s a competitive machine born for the track, with real-world racing success to back up its performance.
4. Kawasaki Z400
Yes, another Kawasaki. And if you’re wondering why, take a quick look at Kawasaki’s model range over the past decade, and you’ll see they’re dead serious about offering something for everyone. Back in 2015, Kawasaki had just one naked sport model—the Z1000. Fast forward to 2019, and now the lineup includes six naked models, ranging from the Z125 to the Z900. And that’s not even counting the different variations of the Z900 (the Z900, Z900RS, and Z900RS Cafe).
In the same year, Kawasaki introduced the Z400 for riders who loved the Ninja 400 but weren’t fans of its fully-faired, sportbike styling. Kawasaki recognized that not every rider cares about spec sheets. Instead, they’re drawn to aesthetics and comfort, and the Z400 aims to capture those riders. So, while the Ninja 400 and Z400 share a lot of DNA, they’re quite different in some key areas.
Stripped Down, Stand-Out Style
The most obvious difference? The Z400’s naked design. You won’t find the same full fairing setup here, and that’s a deliberate choice. Not every rider vibes with the look of a sportbike, and the Z400’s exposed frame and aggressive styling offer an alternative that’s just as sharp but feels less “race-track ready” and more “street-smart.”
Power Without Pretense
Underneath, 90% of the Z400 is basically the same as the Ninja 400. It rocks the same 399cc parallel-twin engine, churning out 44 horsepower at 10,000 rpm and 28 lb.-ft. of torque at 8,000 rpm. Its engine is as approachable for new riders as it is fun for experienced ones. It’s perfect for commuting, with fuel efficiency pushing the high 50s in mpg if you take it easy.
But when you open it up, especially above 7,000 rpm, it becomes a thrill-seeker’s playground. It revs freely and keeps you grinning through the twisties.
Lightweight and Nimble
Handling on the Z400 remains light and nimble, thanks to its ultra-light weight. At 364 pounds, it’s even lighter than the Ninja 400 (which weighs in at 371 pounds), making it one of lightest street bikes on the market. And that makes it super approachable for new riders or anyone looking for a responsive ride. Plus, with the same 30.9-inch seat height as the Ninja, shorter riders won’t feel intimidated.
Comfortable Ergonomics, Upright Position
Ergonomically, there’s a subtle but significant change. The Z400 ditches the Ninja’s clip-ons for a more traditional handlebar that sits about two inches taller and a bit wider, creating a more upright, comfortable riding position. The result? The Z400 better suited for daily commutes or longer rides where the more aggressive posture of the Ninja might wear you out.
Smooth Throttle Response
What’s great about the Z400 is its smooth, linear throttle response. The power comes on evenly, without any nasty surprises. But when you hit that sweet spot above 7,000 rpm, the engine truly comes alive. I found it hard to resist holding onto third and fourth gear a little longer just to enjoy the extra kick.
Capable on the Highway
On the highway, the Z400 cruises along effortlessly at 70 mph, turning just 6,500 rpm. With a redline at 12,000 rpm, there’s still plenty left in reserve, so you never feel like the bike’s straining at higher speeds. Just be prepared to feel the wind a little more—without the Ninja 400’s fairings, the Z400 doesn’t offer the same wind protection.
Slipper Clutch for Effortless Riding
Like the Ninja, the Z400 comes equipped with a slipper-assist clutch, making the clutch pull incredibly light. It’s best for newer riders or those who prefer a more relaxed, easy-going feel in traffic. That said, for aggressive riding, the clutch can feel a little too light—almost to the point where it feels like it’s slipping. Kawasaki reassures us it’s just that sensitive, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Softer Suspension for a Softer Ride
One area where Kawasaki made a noticeable change is the suspension. The Z400’s suspension has been softened compared to the Ninja 400. The front fork uses straight-rate springs rated at 13 N/mm (compared to the dual-rate 14-21 N/mm springs on the Ninja), and the rear shock spring has been softened by 10%, from 94 to 85 N/mm. The change gives the Z400 a more forgiving ride, especially over rough city streets.
Minor Drawbacks
If I had to nitpick, I’d say the mirrors on the Z400 could be better. On the Ninja, the mirrors are mounted on the fairing and provide a clear view of what’s behind you. On the Z400, they’re handlebar-mounted and, unfortunately, give you more of a view of your own arms than anything else. I didn’t have an issue with vibration, but I’ve heard some riders mention it as a concern.
5. KTM RC 390
If you’re into sport motorcycles, the KTM RC 390 is a name you can’t ignore. Known for its fantastic single-cylinder engine and razor-sharp handling, it’s widely regarded as one of the best entry-level sportbikes ever made. Light, nimble, and affordable at a starting price of $5,799, the RC 390 is a beginner’s dream—and it’s equally at home on the track.
Racing Pedigree
The RC 390 isn’t just for the streets—it has its own racing cup, showcasing how well-built and race-ready this bike is. While it may not match the sheer power of 600cc sportbikes on the interstate, the RC 390 holds its own in the corners, thanks to KTM’s superb ergonomics and sharp handling. It’s a bike built for agility, making it ideal for both newcomers and track enthusiasts.
Punchy Single-Cylinder Performance
At the core of the RC 390 is a well-developed 373cc single-cylinder engine. Despite its relatively small size, this engine delivers 40.2 horsepower and 24.4 lb.-ft. of torque. The bike’s lightweight design, combined with its powerful engine, makes it incredibly responsive. A 0-60 mph time of 4.24 seconds is impressive, offering thrills even in a smaller package.
High-Tech Features
KTM packs the RC 390 with sophisticated rider-assist technology, making it an even more appealing choice:
- Ride-by-Wire system with improved engine mapping and throttle response.
- Cornering ABS and a Supermoto ABS setting for maximum control.
- Spin Adjuster traction control with multiple settings to suit different riding styles.
- Slipper clutch and an optional quickshifter to ensure smooth shifts and optimized performance.
The bike’s stainless steel headers and aluminum exhaust add to the performance, delivering a throaty rumble that matches its aggressive style. The six-speed gearbox might need a bit of attention to make the most of the power, but with the quickshifter, the RC 390 transitions seamlessly through the gears.
Ready for 2025
With a new 2025 KTM RC 390 model in development, fans of the bike are eagerly waiting to see what upgrades KTM will bring to this already impressive machine.
6. Triumph Speed 400
Triumph’s 2024 Speed 400 and Scrambler 400 X are making serious waves this year, but let’s be real—one stands above the other. If you’re sticking to the pavement, the Speed 400 is hands-down the winner. No question about it.
In fact, I’d say the Speed 400 is one of the greats not just in entry-level motorcycling, but one of the great bikes of 2024, period. The handling is spot-on for a bike in this price range, the engine is a blast, and its 90 mph top speed isn’t just a number—it’s a smile waiting to happen. At $4,995, this bike delivers way more than it costs.
Canyon Carver with Classic Style
When Triumph added the Speed 400 to its Sport Classic range, it knew exactly what it was doing. If you’ve ever ridden the Speed Twin 1200—Triumph’s Best Standard Motorcycle of 2022 and 2023—you’ll feel that DNA right away.
The Speed 400 is built for the twisties. It’s got effortless turn-in, pinpoint precision, and stability that makes you feel glued to the road. Whether you’re hitting tight canyon roads or just cruising through town, this bike is in its element.
Punchy Engine with Surprising Power
Under the tank, you’ve got a 398cc DOHC liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine. That might not sound like much, but Triumph squeezed out 39.5 hp at 8,000 rpm and 27.7 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,500 rpm. Those numbers translate into real-world fun.
It’s a rev-happy little engine that’s plenty punchy without feeling like you have to constantly shift to keep it alive. You can torque out of a corner or pull from a stop without a lot of effort, and then as the revs climb, you feel it pick up steam. Third and fourth gear? You could live there all day.
Speed vs. Scrambler – Where It Stands
Now, the Speed and Scrambler 400 X have different gearing—the Speed has a taller final drive, while the Scrambler is a bit shorter. Honestly, you’ll feel the difference, but the Speed still jumps forward with that same eager attitude, even when you’re pushing 398cc.
Sure, the Scrambler weighs about 20 pounds more, but both bikes hit a wall right before 100 mph. If you’ve got enough room, the Speed 400 will just tick past 100 mph. Not bad for a small single-cylinder, right?
Ergonomics that Fit the Rider
The 31.1-inch seat height is comfortable enough for all-day riding, but if you’re over 5’10”, you might feel the seat-to-peg distance getting a little tight after a long stretch. Still, the seating position is great for most riders. The slight forward reach to the bars is easy on your wrists and back, so you can either tuck in for speed or relax when cruising. It’s flexible enough to suit whatever riding mood you’re in.
A Few Small Gripes
No bike is perfect, and the Speed 400 has a couple of things that could be better. The levers feel a bit cheap, and the banjo bolts on the brake system aren’t exactly top-shelf. But honestly, that’s nitpicking. And while it doesn’t have a fancy TFT dash, the LCD unit with an analog speedo does the job just fine. Plus, Triumph was smart enough to include a USB-C plug for your phone—perfect for navigation or charging on the go.
7. Husqvarna Svartpilen 401
Husqvarna is known for its motocross heritage, but don’t let that fool you—there are plenty of beautiful bikes in their portfolio that aren’t just for the dirt. Meet the Svartpilen 401, a stylish and practical city bike that proves Husqvarna can play in the urban sandbox too. I
t’s based on the KTM 390 Duke, but here’s the kicker: the Svartpilen costs less than $200 more and offers the same core ingredients—a 398.6cc single-cylinder engine, trellis frame, and more.
A Single-Cylinder That Divides Opinion
The Svartpilen 401 is powered by a circa 399cc single-cylinder engine, which might be a love-it-or-hate-it deal for some riders. It’s been bumped up from its original 373cc to meet Euro5+ emissions standards, and it’s paired with a 13-liter fuel tank (a nice increase from the 9.5 liters on the original).
But let me be clear: this isn’t your smooth parallel-twin Honda CL500 engine. The single-cylinder setup makes the bike more vibey—especially in the higher revs—but that’s part of the charm if you’re into it. You’ll feel those vibrations in your fingers and toes, but that’s what gives it character.
How Fast is Fast Enough
If you’re wondering how fast the Svartpilen 401 can go, it tops out around 160 km/h (99 mph). And as for acceleration? It can hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 5.38 seconds. So if you’re curious about its 0-60 mph time, that translates to around 5.3 seconds. Not bad for a city scrambler, right?
Solid Build Quality
Husqvarna didn’t skimp on the build quality, either. The Svartpilen 401 is equipped with WP Apex forks and shock, offering five-step adjustability. That means you can fine-tune the suspension to your liking, whether you’re carving through city streets or heading out for a weekend ride.
Add in backlit switchgear, a crisp TFT dash, and smartphone integrations, and this bike starts looking like a steal for urban explorers.
Lightweight and Agile for City Life
Weighing in at just 350 pounds without fuel, the Svartpilen 401 feels incredibly nimble. Its steel trellis frame is both sturdy and lightweight, giving you confidence whether you’re navigating traffic or taking tight corners. The WP suspension offers 150mm of travel front and rear, meaning it handles bumps and rough patches with ease.
Combine that with the bike’s compact size, and you’ve got something that’s perfect for zipping around the city.
Designed for the Modern Rider
Husqvarna markets the Svartpilen 401 as a bike for “urban explorers,” and they’re spot on. With modern features like anti-theft tech and smartphone integration, it’s built for the rider who needs a blend of practicality and fun. It just looks cool, too!
8. KTM 390 Duke
The KTM 390 Duke has always had the heart of a true super-naked. From the get-go, this Indian-built single-cylinder bike delivers punchy performance, aggressive styling, and a seriously fun riding experience. For 2024, KTM has given the Duke a major overhaul—claiming it’s 90% new—but it still retains that unmistakable Duke look and attitude.
Performance That’s Friendly Yet Fierce
KTM didn’t hold back when updating the 390 Duke. The new LC4c single-cylinder engine now has a capacity boost from 373cc to 399cc, thanks to a 4mm longer stroke. The result? A bump in power from 42 hp to 44 hp, making it quicker off the line and even more capable for wheelies in third gear with just a flick of the clutch.
Yet, despite this feisty nature, the power delivery is smooth and rider-friendly, making it a perfect choice for newer riders who want a bit of thrill without intimidation.
Slick Design and Serious Upgrades
For 2024, the 390 Duke gets a slimmer, more rigid steel trellis frame paired with a new cast aluminum subframe. There’s also a sleek “banana” swingarm and a new shock mounted on the right side to accommodate a bigger airbox and offer a lower seat height.
The suspension is where things get serious: new WP forks come with a five-way hand adjuster for rebound and compression, while the shock offers rebound damping and preload adjustment. Steering is light, and the brakes are powerful—all of which make it a blast to ride in the twisties.
Ready to Go
You’re not just getting a Bluetooth-enabled color dash here – you’re also equipped with advanced rider aids like cornering traction control and ABS. Want to tweak settings for more safety or a bit more thrill? It’s all possible with this setup.
The backlit switches, self-canceling indicators, and full LED lighting add to the convenience. You won’t find these on just any bike in this price range.
Worth Every Penny
At $5,899, the KTM 390 Duke competes directly with its rivals but delivers more bang for your buck. Sure, it’s a bit pricier than the BMW G310R ($5,190) or the CF Moto 450NK ($5,399) , but with all the tech and performance packed in, the Duke offers unmatched value. It feels like a mini supermoto with attitude!
If you’re after something a bit more mellow, its competitors might be a better fit. But if you want a bike with heart, soul, and a dash of rowdiness, the KTM 390 Duke is hard to beat.
Information for this article was partially sourced and researched from the following authoritative government, educational, corporate, and non-profit organizations:
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