Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R Confirmed Through Leaked Document

The in-line-four 399cc motor could dish out as much power as the Ninja 650’s engine

Rumours regarding a new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R sportbike have been around for quite a while now. But, speculations that are rife can be put to rest as a leaked document has confirmed that the bike is heading to the American market next year.

The leaked VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) document suggests that Kawasaki’s in-line-four will be available in two variants coded ‘PP’ and ‘SP’. While no details are available about the variants themselves, the ‘SP’ variant is likely to sport ABS and few more upgrades over the standard or ‘PP’ variant.

Another interesting bit revealed through this leak was the engine capacity. The upcoming Kawasaki ZX-4R will get a liquid-cooled, in-line four-cylinder, 400cc motor. Though the performance numbers are yet to be disclosed, the 400cc supersport could make around 70PS, considering that the quarter-litre ZX-25R makes almost 50PS. 
 

Even though the power output would be on a par with the Ninja 650, there will be a torque deficit, and as is typical with in-line fours, the power is likely to be concentrated on the top of the rev range.

The Kawasaki ZX-4R should flaunt impressive hardware too. We expect the Japanese bike to get adjustable suspension at both ends and Brembo radial brakes. Electronic aids could include traction control, multiple ride modes and cornering ABS.

Kawasaki first resurrected the iconic quarter-litre four-cylinder segment, and now with the ZX-4R, is bringing back another iconic engine format from the 80s. While the ZX-25R was restricted to some Asian markets, the ZX-4R will hit the American and European markets first. That said, we do not expect the Japanese bikemaker to bring the upcoming model to India owing to high production costs.