Kawasaki introduced its KFX 400 which is one of the first four-wheelers to feature the 4-stroke power in 2003. It was a joint production between Kawasaki and Suzuki. As a result, Kawasaki launches this machine, and Suzuki launches the LT-Z Quad Sport 400. Both are identical except for the name. It was the most underrated sports ATV which was discontinued in 2006.
Check out the full article for a deeper understanding of this ATV.
What is the Kawasaki KFX 400?
Kawasaki KFX 400 is one of the top-notch quads of its time, having a DOHC 398 cm3 four-stroke engine. It has 5-speed transmission along with reverse gear and Electronic CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) ignition system. The fuel system, it has a Mikuni BSR36 S carburetor.
It has premium quality Double A-arm with dual shocks front suspension and a Link type with a single shock absorber rear suspension. Not only that, but its braking system of Dual hydraulic discs with single-piston calipers for the front wheel and Single hydraulic discs with single-piston calipers for the rear wheel is also outstanding.
One thing that might be a problem for you is its tire, which is good while riding off-road but unsuitable for racing. Overall it is a good ATV with an economical price.
Top Speed of KFX 400
The Kawasaki KFX 400 top speed ranges from 65 – 75 mph, with a maximum power of 28-32 hp / 20.9-23.9 kW and 31.5 lb-ft / 42.7 nm. It has a decent amount of power that you can use for your off-road rides and races. Due to its stock gears, if you intend to use it in races, it will reach its top speed but won’t accelerate as quickly as it should.
Specs
Here are the specs of this underrated quad given below.
Type: | Dual hydraulic discs with single-piston calipers |
Displacement: | 398 cm3 |
Bore X Stroke: | 3.5×2.5 in OR 89 mm |
Compression Ratio: | 11.3:1 |
Fuel System: | Mikuni BSR36 S carburetor |
Gearbox: | 5-speed with reverse |
Final Drive: | Chain |
Front Suspension: | Double A-arm with dual shocks |
Rear Suspension: | Link type with single shock absorber |
Front Brake: | Single hydraulic disc with single-piston caliper |
Rear Brake: | Single hydraulic disc with single piston caliper |
Front Tire: | AT22 x 7R10 tubeless |
Rear Tire: | AT20 x 10R9 tubeless |
Overall Length: | 72 in OR 1829 mm |
Overall Width: | 45.9 in OR 1166 mm |
Seat Height | 31.9 in OR 810 mm |
Ground Clearance: | 10.4 in OR 264 mm |
Weight: | 373 lbs. OR 169 kg |
Fuel Capacity: | 2.6 gallons OR 9.8 L |
Engine
Kawasaki KFX 400 has a DOHC 398 cm3 four-stroke and single-cylinder engine. It has a 3.5×2.5 Bore X Stroke and an 11.3:1 aggressive compression ratio.
This high-performance four-stroke engine provides exceptional traction in various sport-riding conditions because of its broad torque curve. Likewise, along with such high performance, the engine still remains cool due to its cooling system, as well as two air intakes on the front fenders, which provide additional cooling.
Drivetrain & Ignition
It has five gear transmission along with a reverse gear. For smooth operations, a wet multi-plate clutch is also installed in it. Its forward gears are foot-operated, four up and one down, and for the reverse, there are two foot / hand-operated options. Furthermore, its primary drive ratio is 2.960 (74/25), and its Final Drive Ratio is 2.857 (40/14).
Transmission Gear Ratio | |
Low Gear | 2.538 (33/13) |
2nd Gear | 1.666 (30/18) |
3rd Gear | 1.238 (26/21) |
4th Gear | 1.000 (23/23) |
Top Gear | 0.846 (22/26) |
Reverse Gear | 2.153 (28/13) |
Along with that, it has a Mikuni BSR36 S carburetor fuel system similar to the Kawasaki Prairie 360; it also has Electronic CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) ignition system. Lastly, don’t overcharge its battery, as due to the presence of hydrogen, it can blast when it comes in contact with the spark.
Suspension
Despite its weaknesses, the suspension system has a number of strengths. It is equipped with Double A-arm with dual shocks front suspension and a Link type with a single shock absorber rear suspension. These suspensions are of premium quality, with the ability to absorb all the bumps even when speeding.
Brakes & Tires
Similar to its suspension, the braking system is also exceptional. You will get Dual hydraulic discs with single-piston calipers for the front wheel and Single hydraulic discs with single-piston calipers for the rear wheel. Additionally, Four-wheelers can be kept firmly on their tracks with the added grip provided by factory-installed rubber.
Coming on the tires, you will get AT22 x 7R10 front and AT20 x 10R9 rear tires. Both front and rear tires are tubeless, and you can easily ride your quad off-road on these tires, but they are not suitable for racing.
Seat Height
It has a 31.9 in / 810 mm seat height, which is quite decent, so a normal-height rider can also travel and touch his toes on the ground while sitting on it. Along with adequate seat height, it has a 10.4 in or 264 mm wheelbase that is also helpful in providing a smooth and bump-free ride.
Pricing Guide
It is an economical quad by Kawasaki, which is available in the price range of $4299 to $5,999. The price of the KFX 400 depends on the condition, upgrades, and functionality of different parts. It is an excellent ATV for off-road and fun rides at an affordable price.
Conclusion
Kawasaki KFX 400 is an exceptional ATV loaded with quality parts that provide a fantastic riding experience. You can enjoy its four-wheel drive on the trails as well as it is suitable for the races. It also has adequate seat height, so anyone can easily ride on it.
A true off-road hero, this machine is one of the most praise-worthy and fun ever built. Interestingly because of its popularity, you can easily buy it at a low price and enjoy its ride.
Rand Frankey is OffRoadsCare freelance Content Editor. He loves offroad Travelling and bikes, jeeps, and dirk bikes. He will explain all his experience with dirt bikes and offroad vehicles which helps you to make a decision like which vehicle is right for you.