Best 400

[Atomic]

Just interested to hear peoples thoughts on what 400cc sports bike they would recommend.

Looking for a street bike suitable for the odd track day.
Dont want a huge bike, im 5'10" and a skinny bastard.

Early 90's
ZXR - FZR - GSXR - CBR - VFR - (RVF would be nice but too much $$$)

I am very anti anything that is prone to tank slappers!


CHEERS

[Satch]

Ive owned both a zxr400 and a vfr 400

IMHO the vfr was a better bike all round, it just seemed to feel like a much bigger bike due the torque that V4 produced!!

the zxr400 just feeled like a bit bigger zxr250, had to ride it the same way, revvs all round. Ive heard the CBR400's behave the same way

hope this helps some

[jade]

Just get a 2stroke 250, faster than a 400, more suited to a trackday and legal to ride on your L..
Reasonably cheap too

[Mr. Peanut]

Don't get a VFR, I don't want them all snapped up before I get my full :)

[Mr. Peanut]

Just get a 2stroke 250, faster than a 400, more suited to a trackday and legal to ride on your L..
Reasonably cheap too
400s are better IMHO.

[sAsLEX]

NC30 or 35

<img src=http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=12988&d=1121840761>

<img src=http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=12992&d=1121840886>

[Shade]

Man, that is awesome Alex :P

VFR!! RVF!! Have owned RVF, and raced KK's VFR. Awesome machines all around. Very forgiving, and they love to rev hard and be pushed through corners.

[sAsLEX]

Man, that is awesome Alex :P

VFR!! RVF!! Have owned RVF, and raced KK's VFR. Awesome machines all around. Very forgiving, and they love to rev hard and be pushed through corners.

And from people I know they are kind of like a virus

KK has like 5? part bikes

His mate at Cyclespot has 4

[hXc]

Reasonably cheap too*Coffee splutters over keyboard* Haha, what a funny guy!


Don't get a VFR, I don't want them all snapped up before I get my full :)You're going from a high performance 2stroke 250 to a mid performance 4stroke 400? Why? There won't be much difference in power, only just how it delivers it.

Although, I will admit I like your style; Honda, V engines. Just get rid of the fairings, and you'll be away laughing.

Imagine that? A naked V4...*Drools*

[Mr. Peanut]

Because, it's just the best bike in the world. Dude, v4ness.

Duh.

[Satch]

YEah man V4's all the Way the VFR has been a real cult bike and just seems to be going up in value, I sold an absolutely awesome mint one about 2 years ago for 5 g looking at the market today i would get alot more for it.

If you can get one then do!! you wont regret it at all. And they crank with a pillion on, musht better than the inline 4's due tho the extra torgue. I know a few girlie's that can vouch for this!!

[hXc]

Because, it's just the best bike in the world. Dude, v4ness.

Duh.I'm going to upgrade bikes in order of cylinders, I've decided. I started on a single, now have a V-twin, next I shall hope to move to a triple, then to a V4. Maybe I'll look at an Inline, but I doubt it.

By the time I'm looking to plant myself on a V4, the Aprilia V4 should be in production...If only they are smart enough to plant it in a naked frame too. *Drools*.

[Shade]

Yeh KK has so many, ahha.

Last count, 3x Working bikes, and prolly 2-3 bikes worth of spares. Might have gotten rid of one though.

They rock, nothin better sounding than a VFR with an aftermarket pipe. Ooh baby

[Karma]

ZXR400 is a great bike... can't really compare it to others as I've not ridden any other 400s, but personally I find it's nice and easy to ride around town, but knock it down a gear and she'll tear around the coro / track with no problems.

What sort of money you looking at spending?

[HDTboy]

I've got a CBR400RR for sale if you want to take one for a ride and find out for yourself.

[Coyote]

*Coffee splutters over keyboard* Haha, what a funny guy!

You're going from a high performance 2stroke 250 to a mid performance 4stroke 400? Why? There won't be much difference in power, only just how it delivers it.

Although, I will admit I like your style; Honda, V engines. Just get rid of the fairings, and you'll be away laughing.

Imagine that? A naked V4...*Drools*
But naked bikes are shit

Fairings FTW mofo

[arj127]

riding my VFR400, although it doesn't seem to have the power that my ZZR600 had. Cornering is pretty unbelievable, effortless. A little bit cramped for me at 6ft, and gives me sore wrists after a while, but still a bundle of fun anyways.

[gamgee]

NC30, they look amazing, sound amazing, and are just and all round great bike, and if these photos don't confirm the look amazing part I don't know what will:
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showpost.php?p=855029&postcount=8

[kneescraper]

Just get a 2stroke 250, faster than a 400, more suited to a trackday and legal to ride on your L..
Reasonably cheap too

Free plug

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=81748781

[vamr]

Free plug

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=81748781

*Dear santa, I know we've never seen eye to eye...*

[kneescraper]

Come on, bid..I know you want you. Dont be shy..I'll chuck in a free thai boy for a night.

[RC1]

i have owned gsxr 400rr, cbr400rr,and vfr400rr, all very good bikes but the gsxr felt like a 250 , the cbr was a hotted up import very comfortable easy to throw around almost rode its self but that was written off by a cage and if it wasnt i would still have it now,then i tryed the vfr and just felt so comfortable and just felt bigger then the cbr and imho is the best of the bunch , hope that helps and enjoy what ever you choose

[limbimtimwim]

Early 90's
ZXR - FZR - GSXR - CBR - VFR - (RVF would be nice but too much $$$)
I am very anti anything that is prone to tank slappers!How much is too much for an RVF, for you?

My RVF got a little twitchy when I changed the tyres to BT-090s. But it's not serious, it's just rewarding you for giving it a go..

Away you evil vultures! I'm not selling mine..

[BarBender]

NC30 (in my humble opinion...)

[Atomic]

Just get a 2stroke 250, faster than a 400, more suited to a trackday and legal to ride on your L..
Reasonably cheap too

Iv had smokers before, id rather go for something with a smoother powerband and cant be arsed with kick start either.

[Atomic]

O well cheers all, I think ill keep an eye out for a VFR unless I can find a RVF for a stupidly cheap price.

[vamr]

cant be arsed with kick start either.

Women find mismatched leg length endearing, don't ya know.

[SuperDave]

Fark! Overkill on the carbon fibre there, looks like shit.

[imdying]

Fark! Overkill on the carbon fibre there, looks like shit.I'd be more concerned about checking out what sort of bolts are holding the rear brake master cylinder on! :lol:

[R1madness]

my choise is the FZR400SP about 1988. 4 pot front calipers, 310mm Twin disk, 3.0 x 17 front rim (means you can get good tyres) 4.5 x 18 rear rim (good tyres again) adjustable forks, adjustable shock, hot cams, EXUP exhaust, close ratio gearbox, bigger swing arm lots of good bits std. Faster and better handling than NC30 and more potential top speed.
Great fun on the road and track.

[gamgee]

Faster and better handling than NC30 and more potential top speed.


Hahahaha tell 'm he's dream'n
once an nc30 is derestricted from 180km/h theres no way the fzr would beat it in top speed, the nc30 is easily the best handling 400 around, not sure about 0-100 acceleration, but I'm pretty sure the vfr has more power than any other 400cc

[Grantasaurus]

I'd go with the VFR, if only because of the fact that they are so damn sexy with that single sided swingarm.

You'd be splitting hairs to find any real performance differences between the japper 400s..

How about a Ducati monster 400? Jap market only, made for their crazy legislation where you have to be able to pick your bike up if its over 400cc

[Shade]

Hahahaha tell 'm he's dream'n
once an nc30 is derestricted from 180km/h theres no way the fzr would beat it in top speed, the nc30 is easily the best handling 400 around, not sure about 0-100 acceleration, but I'm pretty sure the vfr has more power than any other 400cc

Nah ZXR400's have more power I believe.

However, handling wise, VFR400 beats anything else hands down. I thought that was a well known fact? :)

Turns in effortlessly, holds its line well, and pops back up no worries.

ZXR's are slightly harder to get over, and heavier to pull back up.

FZR standard wouldnt have anything on either of the 2, however, has heaps of potential for mods / improvement.

Want bang for buck, VFR, then ZXR i reckon

[Karma]

ZXR400! Bring it on!

[limbimtimwim]

Hahahaha tell 'm he's dream'n
once an nc30 is derestricted from 180km/h theres no way the fzr would beat it in top speed, the nc30 is easily the best handling 400 around, not sure about 0-100 acceleration, but I'm pretty sure the vfr has more power than any other 400ccDon't be so sure. Those, uncommmon, FZR SPs were a bit special. He didn't mention they also had slide carbs and an alloy subframe.

There is so little power difference between the different jappa 400s that it would all be down to rider skill and lack of mechanical sympathy.

[jeremysprite]

VFR's 1/4 times aren't that good because of the tall 1st, so I'd assume their 0-100's aren't too great either, but you CAN reach 100 in 1st apparently, again, sympathy for motor.

Get a VFR, they're so much cooler than anything else. The other's are just bigger 250's.

Anyone want to attempt building a VFR250? I'll pay you a thousand bucks?
(for a completed bike, not an attempt...)

[mynameis]

i have owned gsxr 400rr, cbr400rr,and vfr400rr, all very good bikes but the gsxr felt like a 250


How did it feel like a 250 and in what way mate? You mean grunt wise or was it light? Any other comments on GSXR 400? What year did you have? Common problems? I hear it's top end is the best out of all 400's?

mynameis

[sAsLEX]

I hear it's top end is the best out of all 400's?

mynameis

And?


How often in reality do you use the top end on even a 400?

I think I have had the NC tapped out once, alongside an airport , and then a Hawk gets upset and pulls up out of the grass and goes over my head by inches....

But you can even be lazy on the V and leave it in one gear for tens of kilometers and still get on at a decent pace, rather than rowing through an inlines gears

[imdying]

But you can even be lazy on the V and leave it in one gear for tens of kilometers and still get on at a decent pace, rather than rowing through an inlines gearsThat is such bollocks, you must have a magically NC30 or something... NC30s need plenty of gear rowing, certainly bugger all less than an IL4 400.

[limbimtimwim]

And?
How often in reality do you use the top end on even a 400?
I think I have had the NC tapped out once, alongside an airport , and then a Hawk gets upset and pulls up out of the grass and goes over my head by inches....I was forever hitting the limiter on my RVF, till I put in the HRC ignition. I think that is because there is no limiter any more.
But you can even be lazy on the V and leave it in one gear for tens of kilometers and still get on at a decent pace, rather than rowing through an inlines gearsOnly if you are passing stationary objects.

[kiwifruit]

How often in reality do you use the top end on even a 400?


ummmmm, all the time?

[99TLS]

riding my VFR400, although it doesn't seem to have the power that my ZZR600 had..

thats because its a 400 ya knob

[imdying]

ummmmm, all the time?
Pretty much... that's the major draw card (imho) of (say) an RVF400 over a late GSXR750. Revving it out is the best part of owning a 400!

[Karma]

ummmmm, all the time?

I've done it a few times, mostly coro loops or the back stright on puke or taupo, it ain't hard to hit 190kph on those, even with my fat ass on the back.

[kiwifruit]

thats because its a 400 ya knob

nice first post :lol:

welcome to the site

[steved]

I've done it a few times, mostly coro loops or the back stright on puke or taupo, it ain't hard to hit 190kph on those, even with my fat ass on the back.
My ZXR400 (SP admittedly) hit 200 kph at Puke, just. Great bike the Kawasaki.

[sAsLEX]

My ZXR400 (SP admittedly) hit 200 kph at Puke, just. Great bike the Kawasaki.

on the speedo? or some other method?

As mines been past 180 past the kmhr bit and on past Nippon on the speedo,

[RC1]

How did it feel like a 250 and in what way mate? You mean grunt wise or was it light? Any other comments on GSXR 400? What year did you have? Common problems? I hear it's top end is the best out of all 400's?

mynameis
gsxr 400rr was a 94 sling shot( lite wise) grunt was good for a 400 was restricted to 205 from memory , only had for a short time about 6wks( before getting rear ended at carbine rd lights) ( wrote off bike and cage) so had no real problems to write of, still enjoyed the vfr the best,although the hot cbr was faster,

[steved]

on the speedo? or some other method?

As mines been past 180 past the kmhr bit and on past Nippon on the speedo,
Hand-held GPS in the pocket. I don't think the speedo goes that high although I can't remember. Klown?

[Karma]

on the speedo? or some other method?

As mines been past 180 past the kmhr bit and on past Nippon on the speedo,


Hand-held GPS in the pocket. I don't think the speedo goes that high although I can't remember. Klown?


Yeh, speedo tops out at 180kph, and on a 12 year old bike can be a tad unreliable... I'd believe 200kph though, dependant on if you're over the tank and weigh slightly less than I do :Punk:

[arj127]

thats because its a 400 ya knob

i should have said was, if you are moving on from a 250 inline four, go for a 600. I dont beleive the power increase from 250 to 400 is a lot, and you will soon get bored with it. The 600's have unbelievable power, and can show a few 750's or 1000's how its done.
I only bought my 400 as i was coming back to road riding and had always thought the VFR were pretty cool. But i do miss the power and laziness of riding style that my 600 had.
You have to ride the VFR fairly hard through the gears if you want it to boogie.

[Coyote]

My ZXR400 (SP admittedly) hit 200 kph at Puke, just. Great bike the Kawasaki.
So the 400s aren't that much faster than the 250s?

I got to just under 200 on my old CBR (according to the speedo)

[Karma]

So the 400s aren't that much faster than the 250s?
Top speed maybe, but they'll get there a lot quicker... my 400 will outrun 250s in a line piece of piss.

[Coyote]

Top speed maybe, but they'll get there a lot quicker... my 400 will outrun 250s in a line piece of piss.
So it's worth upgrading to a 400 instead of a 600? I won't have to loan cash to get a 400

[steved]

So the 400s aren't that much faster than the 250s?

I got to just under 200 on my old CBR (according to the speedo)
As Saslex pointed out, the speedo isn't a great indication of speed up top.
I think a standard CBR250 would struggle to top 180 in reality.

[Coyote]

As Saslex pointed out, the speedo isn't a great indication of speed up top.
I think a standard CBR250 would struggle to top 180 in reality.
I think it would get to 180, but that would be it. I ran out of road before I hit the limiter

And so would a ZXR250 A/C, before some tosser goes on about how much better they are which is bull

[steved]

So it's worth upgrading to a 400 instead of a 600? I won't have to loan cash to get a 400
I went CBR250, ZXR400 then CBR600. The 400 is still 40%ish more power than a 250 so is a nice step up.

[Karma]

So it's worth upgrading to a 400 instead of a 600? I won't have to loan cash to get a 400

That's really a subjective question and depends on a number of factors;

- Your height / weight

The 400s all mentioned above are fairly small bikes physically, and if you're a slightly larger chap you might want to look at 600s as they are usually bigger.

- Your riding style

The 400s will cruise fairly well on the motorway, but are best in the twisties, the 400s in the twisties over the coro for example will keep pace with 600s and most others (dependant on the rider of course)

- Your riding ability

You'll find the 400s are a very forgiving bike, they've got enough power that they can move if you want them to, but it's also small enough that it's difficult to get into a really sticky situation by accident, I've found my ZX4R gives me plenty of notice if it's not happy with the lean it's on for example, and plenty of time to pull it back into line.

- Where you normally ride

You'll find most 400s are carbed, and in colder climates this can be a bit of a pain, but this only favours the 600s if they were fuel injected, in fact the carbed 600s are even worse in colder climates to get running well. The 400s will generally cruise easily in and out of town, only requiring the odd high speed run to clear out any cobwebs it may have built up.

My personal recommendation...

If you're over six foot tall, or more than 100kgs, you'll find the 400 might not be to your requirements, but anyone else that is coming back to biking, or fancies an easy trade up from a 250 will really enjoy it.

As with anything, test before you buy, the 400 doesn't take much to reach it's limits really, so you probably won't keep it for more than a year or two, but same goes for most bikes really.

[Coyote]

Well I've just grown past 6' and I'm still going (my cousins that I seem to be following are 6'4") but I'm 75kg (haven't had christmas dinner yet). Being restricted to the 150/250s has got me yearning for more power and I think 400s wouldn't be so big a jump and I'll get tired of it easily. I haven't got my full yet, but I've been riding for nearly 5 years and I'm fairly sensible so I think I can handle a 600 (or a 1000 if I was dumb enough to get one. Which I might be cause those early 2000 R1s are getting cheap).

Money will probably decide. Once I've fixed up the RGs I could get over 2000 each which will just be enough for a decent 400. Plus I hope to save up some cash. I've still got another 6-12 months to think about things. I don't mind riding a learners bike on my full for a bit longer

[Karma]

I'm fairly sensible so I think I can handle a 600 (or a 1000 if I was dumb enough to get one. Which I might be cause those early 2000 R1s are getting cheap).

Mate... I'd very strongly advise against an R1 stright off a 250, 400s might be a little too soft, but see how it goes eh.

[Coyote]

Mate... I'd very strongly advise against an R1 stright off a 250, 400s might be a little too soft, but see how it goes eh.
I've done dumber things, like learn to ride on a '95 KX80

400s keep their value so it might not be such a bad idea to get one first. Plus they sound cool and theres trick TYGA stuff available. And I'm still interested in Motards which is another story

[Karma]

Yeh the value thing is ok... the only thing that can be a pain sometimes is that they get used for the track and in F3 so parts can sometimes be scarce. Try ringing a breakers and asking if they've got a ZXR400 at all

"ZXR400??? I've not seen one of those for years!" As soon as they come in it's like vultures picking bits they want, unless someone comes in and takes the whole thing :(

[Hoon]

So the 400s aren't that much faster than the 250s?

I got to just under 200 on my old CBR (according to the speedo)

No a healthy stock 400 (ZXR/VFR/FZR) will do 220-235kph, roughly 60-65hp. However most 15 yo bikes are far from the condition they were when they rolled off the showroom floor so 200kph isn't suprising - prob only putting out about 50-55hp now compared to 65hp when new.

[Coyote]

No a healthy stock 400 (ZXR/VFR/FZR) will do 220-235kph, roughly 60-65hp. However most 15 yo bikes are far from the condition they were when they rolled off the showroom floor so 200kph isn't suprising - prob only putting out about 50-55hp now compared to 65hp when new.
Guess restoring them would be costly?

I'd be most interested in a VFR cause they sound awesome, only they don't have the pillion seat/glove compartment that the CBR has. Not sure what the ZXR has

[Karma]

Not sure what the ZXR has

ZXR under the rear pillion has literally place for the small toolkit and a disc lock, that's it.

In terms of restoring them, shouldn't be too bad same as any other bikes really.

[mynameis]

And?


How often in reality do you use the top end on even a 400?

I think I have had the NC tapped out once, alongside an airport , and then a Hawk gets upset and pulls up out of the grass and goes over my head by inches....

But you can even be lazy on the V and leave it in one gear for tens of kilometers and still get on at a decent pace, rather than rowing through an inlines gears

And what makes you assume like a complete ass that I am talking about reality and practicality, when I've just given a general statement? Where did I state what the purpose was .. racing/commuting?

And I was expecting a reply from someone I addressed it to and who has owned the bike not other koons sticking their nose in and talking shit which doesn't relate to what I've asked and people who haven't owned a GSXR 400!

mynameis

[mynameis]

No a healthy stock 400 (ZXR/VFR/FZR) will do 220-235kph, roughly 60-65hp. However most 15 yo bikes are far from the condition they were when they rolled off the showroom floor so 200kph isn't suprising - prob only putting out about 50-55hp now compared to 65hp when new.

Talking to experienced people (bike shop owners, machenics for more than ten years) most 400's they have dynoed came out between 45-50 hp's and most ZXR CBR 250's they have dynoed between 33-38 hp.

Mind you there are only a few shops who have dyno machines lol..Interesting aye, I reckon even back then when those bikes were a year old they would have dynoed at like 55-60 hp's and not close to 65 hp.

mynameis

[sAsLEX]

Guess restoring them would be costly?

I'd be most interested in a VFR cause they sound awesome, only they don't have the pillion seat/glove compartment that the CBR has. Not sure what the ZXR has

Yes a NC30 does have a bit under the pillion seat.

And above meh.

[sAsLEX]

Talking to experienced people (bike shop owners, machenics for more than ten years) most 400's they have dynoed came out between 45-50 hp's and most ZXR CBR 250's they have dynoed between 33-38 hp.



Now your talking HP at the wheel which is a completely different kettle of fish but I wont say anything since I don't know anything.

[Coyote]

Yes a NC30 does have a bit under the pillion seat.

Most VFRs I have seen are single seaters, and the TYGA fairing kit is a single seater. I was thinking about changing the subframe to a CBRs cause TYGAs fairing kit for them keeps the pillion seat

[sAsLEX]

Most VFRs I have seen are single seaters, and the TYGA fairing kit is a single seater. I was thinking about changing the subframe to a CBRs cause TYGAs fairing kit for them keeps the pillion seat

VFRs come with a pillion seat, most you have seen have aftermarket glass on them at a guess.

[Tim 39]

No a healthy stock 400 (ZXR/VFR/FZR) will do 220-235kph, roughly 60-65hp. However most 15 yo bikes are far from the condition they were when they rolled off the showroom floor so 200kph isn't suprising - prob only putting out about 50-55hp now compared to 65hp when new.

gawd I'd pay to see a 60-65 horse 400 do 220-235, I passed a fully worked ZXR400 (race pistons, cams etc etc etc) on my RS125, and he was fully tapped out (end of straight at ruapuna) I was only doing 198, and I passed him, so at most it couldve only done like 205-210 maybe, it it had an endless straight, it depends though, speedos over read (mines an accurate one, because 125's don't have them)

[Masterchop]

I owned a ZXR 400 as a race bike for about 10 years,it had 67hp as a stock bike and 76hp at the rear wheel when finished as a race bike.
TOP SPEED on the race track depends on the gearing you are running so yes the 125 may get a better top end if they are geared wrong for the track.

A ZXR400 SP comes out of the factory as a very capable bike with lots of good stuff, -adustable ride height
adjustable suspension
adjustable cam gears
17 inch wheels front and rear
flat slide carbs
alloy subframe
great brakes
That is a very good bike to work with as a base for a race bike,thats why there were so many being raced in F3 during the 90's and so many at the front of the pack.
It is also a a great road bike in base trim. I never took much notice of many of the other 400's cause the ZXR was so good.
I guess it depends what you want to use it for aye.

[scracha]

gawd I'd pay to see a 60-65 horse 400 do 220-235, I passed a fully worked ZXR400 (race pistons, cams etc etc etc) on my RS125, and he was fully tapped out (end of straight at ruapuna) I was only doing 198, and I passed him, so at most it couldve only done like 205-210 maybe, it it had an endless straight, it depends though, speedos over read (mines an accurate one, because 125's don't have them)

Sounds like gearing. After fitting new valves (a long story involving me removing 8 bent inlet valves) and rings my FZ400 managed about 136mph ish (indicated 147 but confirmed by matey in Vauxhall Calibra turbo) WITH A PILLION. So that's roughly 220k's. Funnily enough it didn't go much faster sans pillion.

Gawd I miss the M9 motorway....no cops whatsoever.

[Mr. Peanut]

ummmmm, all the time?

+1 :innocent:

[Blair-SV]

I notice no one has mentioned the SV400 yet, very rare in NZ but they're great little bikes. Maybe not as quick as 4's but plenty enough go and very enconomical. Commutes well since it handles open road much better than the average 250.

My gf had hers for 4 years of trouble free commuting. But as you can see from the pic, we've upgraded slightly (hers is the silver one). Nothing sounds quite like a v-twin

[toymachine]

Nothing sounds quite like a v-twin

Perhaps not... but gimme a V4 over it anyday ;)

[James Deuce]

Honda CB400/4. No doubt at all.

[MattRSK]

So I am glad that we can agree that this is the best 400 in the world!

<img src="http://bhhits.cocolog-nifty.com/photos/zaiko/dsc00917.jpg">

Guess this thread can be closed now. :D
Thanks for your input.

[Tim 39]

Hmm the good old CBR400, I'm the proud owner of an NC23 model. Great roadbike/commuter! One question though... why so heavy? they have a alloy feame etc but still weigh 180 kilos!!!! most 600's are lighter!

[crash harry]

FZR400SP (3TJ). Best. 400. Ever.

[mynameis]

So I am glad that we can agree that this is the best 400 in the world!

http://bhhits.cocolog-nifty.com/photos/zaiko/dsc00917.jpg

Guess this thread can be closed now. :D
Thanks for your input.

I have to..how many k's on it buddy? Any chance you're selling that anytime soon ? Hmm ..

mynameis

[moko]

Imagine that? A naked V4...*Drools*

Like this one you mean? These were specially made by Honda for Japanese riding schools,this one`s local to me and I was going to bid for it for a runaround,just got myself a DR650 instead though

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=012&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&viewitem=&item=220063373185&rd=1&rd=1

[STORKEN]

Honda V4 400. One of the race reps if you can.

[gamgee]

Like this one you mean? These were specially made by Honda for Japanese riding schools,this one`s local to me and I was going to bid for it for a runaround,just got myself a DR650 instead though

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ih=012&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT&viewitem=&item=220063373185&rd=1&rd=1

a 1993 NC21??? nooooo doesn't exist, the seller is a retard!

[nudemetalz]

Honda CB400/4. No doubt at all.



Amen to that. This is the bike that started the whole 400 sport class !!

I owned one once, had 82,000kms on it and still used to crack that ton.
Never used 10,000rpm as the redline, used 12,000rpm !! (hey, I was 19 !!)
Strong and solid. However, used to be a 300/3 or even a 200/2 in the rain !!!

[R1madness]

Yea man i change my vote to CB400/4 as well. I had a blue one back in the early years. It was great. It was my second bike. Awsome to ride. Fast good handling and not bad brakes (for its day). I will buy another one one day.

[gammaguy]

My Suzuki RG 400 is a trackday weapon,eats SV 650s for brekkie.only drawback is availability of tyres but still available if you look hard enough.

I see Mt Eden motorcycles have a nice one in ....

[Mr. Peanut]

My Suzuki RG 400 is a trackday weapon,eats SV 650s for brekkie.only drawback is availability of tyres but still available if you look hard enough.

I see Mt Eden motorcycles have a nice one in ....

Big bang, square four 2 stroke.

You win :)

[Animal]

So I am glad that we can agree that this is the best 400 in the world!

<img src="http://bhhits.cocolog-nifty.com/photos/zaiko/dsc00917.jpg">

Guess this thread can be closed now. :D
Thanks for your input.
Interesting coincidence, I saw one of these for sale today for $4k. Tempting...

[Bonez]

Amen to that. This is the bike that started the whole 400 sport class !!

I owned one once, had 82,000kms on it and still used to crack that ton.
Never used 10,000rpm as the redline, used 12,000rpm !! (hey, I was 19 !!)
Strong and solid. !!!What!! You mean didn't explode in a shower of tin foil? My brother use to have one. He and his mate use trundle around the north island two up with a pack on it.

[ben444]

Have owned and ridden most of the Honda 400's. Currently have a pretty trick NC30 race bike, and ride to work on the old school vfr400k nc21(cheap and underrated).... Here is my order of preference....

Number 1: RVF400R NC35. Easily the best. Best looking, best engine, best suspension... but expensive.

Number 2: CBR400RR NC29. The gull arm has tasty looks but budget brakes and suspension. A cheaper option than the RVF and VFR NC30, but will easily keep up with them on the road.

Number 3: CBR400RR NC23. Tri-arm, similar engine to the NC29, but with even more budget suspension, but can be easily sorted. 18 inch rear wheel.

Number 4: VFR400R NC30. Engine is not as road friendly as the RVF/CBR with the close ratio gearbox. 18 inch rear. later models have better suspension, but are way over priced for a 14-18 year old bike. But still a good looker after all this time.

Number 5: VFR400R NC24. Early model. Has pro-arm. ok looks. Comfy to ride. Cheap and reliable. odd ball wheel sizes.

Number 6: CBR400R NC23. Jelly mould. Looks like early model CBR600F1. Rides the same too. Just like a underpowered CBR600. Which it is.

Number 7: VFR400R/Z/K NC21. Same engine as the NC24, but old school double sided swingarm and looks. Crap suspension and brakes. Can pick these up for under $1k and can prove to be a reliable commuter while also do the twistys in the weekend.

[mynameis]

Here is my order of preference....

Number 1: RVF400R NC35. Easily the best. Best looking, best engine, best suspension... but expensive.

Number 2: CBR400RR NC29. The gull arm has tasty looks but budget brakes and suspension. A cheaper option than the RVF and VFR NC30, but will easily keep up with them on the road.

Number 3: CBR400RR NC23. Tri-arm, similar engine to the NC29, but with even more budget suspension, but can be easily sorted. 18 inch rear wheel.


Very interesting post there dood, can I ask how you felt of the clutch of the NC35 ? They are more appealing to me than a NC30 as I am over 6 foot and it feels more comfortable on the RVF. Must say they look better as well but price really puts me off.

Now of the CBR 400's NC 29 and 23 which one of them wasn't for NZ market and were imported? If I do make sense here. Throw some more light on em mate. Cheers

mynameis

[limbimtimwim]

Very interesting post there dood, can I ask how you felt of the clutch of the NC35 ?Learn not to use it. You only need it for 1st->2nd and 2nd->1st. I used to get a sore clutch hand on the RVF (You change gears a lot) then I stopped using the clutch.

[mynameis]

Learn not to use it. You only need it for 1st->2nd and 2nd->1st. I used to get a sore clutch hand on the RVF (You change gears a lot) then I stopped using the clutch.

Bugger! When I rode one I was like WTF is this lol..um thought changing without clutch wasn't good for whatever reason out of the million floating around.

mynameis

[James Deuce]

Changing without the clutch is generally speaking not that great for the gearbox going down the box. Up is no worries provided you back the power off a little when you weight the gear lever.

Me? It's my gearbox and I have to pay for it when it goes bang, so I use the clutch in both directions.

[limbimtimwim]

Changing without the clutch is generally speaking not that great for the gearbox going down the box. Up is no worries provided you back the power off a little when you weight the gear lever.
RVF400 has a slipper clutch, so did the VFR400. Done correctly it doesn't feel harsh at all, I don't think it is doing any damage on the RVF.

[Citroenjunkie]

Honda CB400/4. No doubt at all.


The man has spoken! I had a VF400 some time ago it was shite. The centre of gravity was too high, you had to rev the balls of it to get any real sense of haste, it used frightening amounts of fuel and I never felt safe riding it.
It was the ONLY bad Honda I've ever ridden, and I owned a C90 and a MB50!

My CB400SF is vastly more powerful, has useable torque from about 3000 RPM is comfortable, economical and is quick enough on the twisty bits too.

And as for the top end......Remember not to drop the soap!:shutup:

[ben444]

Very interesting post there dood, can I ask how you felt of the clutch of the NC35 ? They are more appealing to me than a NC30 as I am over 6 foot and it feels more comfortable on the RVF. Must say they look better as well but price really puts me off.

Now of the CBR 400's NC 29 and 23 which one of them wasn't for NZ market and were imported? If I do make sense here. Throw some more light on em mate. Cheers

mynameis

The nc30/35 clutchs aren't exactly the strongest on the market.
The 35 uses one less plate but it's plates are thicker.
Because of the ridicously hugely tall first gear on the nc30, they tend to like burning thru them plates when your launching hard/trying to wheelie/burnout etc...
Putting an extra diaphragm spring helps pushin them plates together a bit harder.
And yes it is a slipper clutch, simple but it works.

I'm not sure which CBR was officially imported. I was thinkin they'll be both grey market models(i know mine all have been), but the NC29 is easier to get parts for( alot of stuff transfer over from other models cbr600 etc).
Also the CBR's are really made for people with short legs(low seat height) so if ya over 6 ft you may feel a bit cramped.

Price does put people off the RVF, but it won't lose $2000 as soon as you roll it out off the showroom. Kept tidy RVF400 keep their prices well. You buy one for $7k, don't fuck it and it'll be worth $7k next year.

[nudemetalz]

What!! You mean didn't explode in a shower of tin foil? My brother use to have one. He and his mate use trundle around the north island two up with a pack on it.

No it didn't, surprisingly. I have so many stories of the abuse that was inflicted on that poor little 400/4.
"..Like the peace-symbol burnout done at Midnight up the top of the Port Hills at 12-13K rpm !!..
The clutch did feel a little soggy afterwards..."

Nowadays if I had one, I would restore it and love it (and ride it gently !!).
I went for a ride up the top of the 'Takas today only to see a mint 400/4 pull up.
Great bike.

[garyboy_palaboy]

here's my project bike....

http://tyga-performance.com/site/index.php?cPath=230_564_688

.

[SVboy]

Interesting thread. I have just brought a 91 Suzi GSXR 400r. Hi Kms and Average cond. Currently it is getting camchain etc and carb work-then suspention rebuild. The idea is a fun bike for the track and twisties. Had some KB feedback sofar...but interested to hear your experiences and opinions....