With a screaming 399cc inline-four, quickshifter and proper supersport DNA, the ZX-4R SE proves that a 400cc bike can still deliver serious fun on Malaysian roads.
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When it comes to modern supersport motorcycles, the Kawasaki ZX family has always been among the most recognisable names. From the iconic ZX-10R, ZX-6R to the screaming ZX-25R that became hugely popular among younger riders in Malaysia, Kawasaki has built a reputation for producing machines that combine race DNA with everyday usability.
Now the lineup has grown again. Recently, Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (MODENAS), a subsidiary of DRB-HICOM Berhad, officially introduced the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR and ZX-4R SE to the Malaysian market. These two models slot right between the ZX-25R and ZX-6R, offering a proper inline-four supersport experience in a lighter and more approachable package.
The ZX-4RR or SE is mainly up against other fast, sub-500cc inline-four sportbikes. But here in Malaysia, it’s also got competition from the twin-cylinder CFMoto 450SR and the inline-four QJ Motor SRK450RR. Plus, keep an eye out for the Kove 450RR, it could definitely join the mix, especially since their 450R models are already around.
I spent about a week riding the ZX-4R SE around the Klang Valley, and it quickly became clear that this bike is something quite special. In a market where most manufacturers are chasing torque and bigger displacement, the ZX-4R SE feels like a rare machine that celebrates high revs, sharp handling and pure riding excitement.
Engine and Transmission
At the heart of the ZX-4R SE sits a 399cc DOHC inline-four engine, producing around 75 horsepower at 14,500 rpm and up to 79 horsepower with the Ram-Air effect. Torque is rated at 39 Nm at 13,000 rpm. Those numbers might not sound outrageous at first glance, but the way the engine delivers its power is what makes this bike stand out.
Unlike most bikes in the 400cc category that use parallel-twin engines, this one revs all the way past 16,000 rpm. That means the real fun begins when the needle climbs high into the rev range, producing that unmistakable inline-four scream that Kawasaki fans love.
Compared with something like the Ninja 400, which produces around 44 horsepower from a parallel twin, the ZX-4R SE feels far more energetic. It is not just about raw power though. The engine feels smooth, responsive and incredibly eager to rev.
The gearbox is paired with an assist and slipper clutch, which keeps shifts smooth and prevents rear wheel hop during aggressive downshifting. The up and down quickshifter works beautifully as well, especially when the engine is spinning higher in the rev range. Once you start riding aggressively, clutchless shifts feel wonderfully smooth.
Design and features
Visually, the ZX-4R SE looks almost identical to its smaller sibling, the ZX-25R. The aggressive Ninja styling remains, complete with sharp aerodynamic bodywork and that signature supersport stance.
The SE version I tested came in Metallic Spark Black with Blizzard White accents. While Kawasaki’s traditional green colour scheme is always iconic, this white, gold and black combination actually looks stunning under city lights, especially during night rides around Kuala Lumpur.
The bike features a 4.3-inch TFT display that is clear enough during both day and night rides, along with smartphone connectivity through Kawasaki’s Rideology app. The system allows riders to check riding data, trip logs and basic settings through their phone. Although most riders will probably use it more for curiosity rather than necessity.
Electronic riding aids include traction control, selectable ride modes and ABS. The four riding modes consist of Sport, Road, Rain and Rider mode, allowing you to customize the power delivery and traction control settings. Most of the time I rode with traction control off and full power mode selected through Rider mode. Well, this setup allows the bike’s personality to shine even more I guess.
Riding Experiences
Swinging a leg over the ZX-4R SE feels familiar if you have ever ridden a ZX-25R. The riding position is sporty but not overly aggressive, which makes it manageable for everyday riding.
Within just a few minutes on the road, the bike feels easy to adapt to. For riders who have experience with the ZX-25R or ZX-6R, this model sits nicely in between the two in terms of power and handling. Despite having a wet weight of around 189 kg, the bike’s low centre of gravity hides that mass quite well once you start moving.
The assist and slipper clutch makes city riding smooth, while the quickshifter adds a touch of race-bike excitement whenever you push the bike harder. Cornering confidence is excellent and the chassis feels stable even when leaning deeper into bends.
Acceleration is smooth rather than explosive. You do not get the sudden torque punch you might feel on a larger bike like the ZX-6R or Z900. Instead, power builds steadily as the revs climb. The faster the engine spins, the more alive the bike feels.
Handling and Braking
The ZX-4R SE comes equipped with dual front disc brakes and radial-mount calipers, providing solid stopping power for a bike in this class. Braking performance feels progressive and confidence-inspiring, especially during spirited riding.
Up front, the bike uses Showa SFF-BP USD forks which provide a comfortable yet controlled ride. The SE version does not get the more advanced Showa BFRC-Lite rear suspension that the ZX-4RR receives, but for road use the standard setup works perfectly well. Unless you are a serious track rider, the ZX-4R SE already delivers more than enough suspension performance for Malaysian roads.
One thing that stood out during my time with the bike was how well it handled daily riding conditions. I took it through heavy traffic along Old Klang Road and the Federal Highway motorcycle lane, and the bike remained light, agile and easy to manoeuvre. For a supersport machine, it feels surprisingly practical.
Speed and Performances
When given the opportunity on an open stretch of road, the ZX-4R SE shows its true character. The highest speed I managed during testing was around 223 km/h, though some reports suggest it can reach up to 235 km/h under the right conditions.
Acceleration feels smooth rather than aggressive, but once the revs climb, the bike pulls strongly all the way to the top. Wheelies are easy in first gear if traction control is turned off, and second gear lifts are possible with a bit more effort. For riders who enjoy playful riding, the bike certainly has enough power to entertain.
The quickshifter performs flawlessly both up and down the gearbox, making spirited riding feel effortless. Hard downshifts remain smooth thanks to the slipper clutch, which keeps the rear wheel stable during aggressive braking.
Verdict
Overall, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R SE is a motorcycle built for riders who love the sound of high revs and the thrill of pushing a bike to its limits. It may not be the cheapest bike in the 400cc category, but it is easily one of the most exciting. The inline-four engine alone makes it unique in today’s market.
For Malaysian riders who want the feel of a supersport machine without jumping straight into the intimidating power of a 600cc bike, the ZX-4R SE hits a sweet spot. It delivers serious performance while still being manageable for daily riding.
Priced at around RM40,999 only for the body, the ZX-4R SE offers a lot of technology, performance and character in a relatively compact package.
Having spent a week with the bike, its character is undeniable. If you enjoy chasing the redline and hearing that glorious inline-four scream, the ZX-4R SE might just be one of the most entertaining motorcycles you can buy today. And honestly, it would not be a bad idea to park one in my garage either.
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R SE Specifications
Engine & Performance
- Engine: 399cc Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, Inline-four, DOHC, 16-valve
- Max Power: 75 horsepower at 14,500 rpm (up to 79 horsepower with Ram Air)
- Max Torque: 39 Nm Torque at 12,500 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed with Kawasaki Quick Shifter (KQS) Up & Down
- Clutch: Wet multi-disc, Assist & Slipper
Chassis & Suspension
- Frame: Trellis, high-tensile steel
- Front Suspension: 37 mm inverted fork (SFF-BP) with adjustable preload, compression, and rebound damping
- Rear Suspension: Horizontal Back-link with BFRC-lite shock, adjustable preload, compression, and rebound
- Front Brakes: Dual 290 mm discs with 4-piston radial-mount calipers
- Rear Brakes: Single 220 mm disc
- Tires: 120/70-ZR17 (front), 160/60-ZR17 (rear)
Dimensions & Electronics
- Wet Weight: 189 kg
- Seat Height: 800 mm
- Fuel Capacity: 15 Liters
- Electronics: Traction Control (KTRC), Riding Modes (Sport, Road, Rain, Rider), LCD screen, ABS
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