
The maintenance interval for the Ninja 400 is the first service at 1,000 km, followed by the next service at 12,000 km. Motorcycle oil maintenance: Routine motorcycle maintenance is actually quite simple, primarily revolving around oil changes. When changing the oil, in addition to considering the time since the last change, the frequency of use should also be taken into account to appropriately adjust the replacement interval. Motorcycle fuel system maintenance: During normal use, the motorcycle requires regular cleaning of the air filter, carburetor, and fuel injector. The cleaning frequency for the air filter can be higher—it should be cleaned once every two oil changes.

I've been riding my Ninja 400 for three years and found that the maintenance cycle is mainly determined by mileage and riding habits. The official manual recommends the first maintenance after riding 600 kilometers for a new bike, including changing the engine oil and filter, checking the chain tension, and adjusting the brake system. After that, a regular maintenance is needed every 6,000 kilometers, such as changing the engine oil, cleaning the air filter, and checking tire wear. For commuting in the city, I insist on taking the bike for maintenance every six months or so because heavy traffic can accelerate engine wear. If not done in time, the chain may loosen, posing a riding hazard, so it's best to keep track of the mileage and remind yourself. Don't ignore seasonal changes—an extra maintenance in cold weather can prevent coolant issues.

As a daily commuter, I always pay attention to the maintenance cycle when riding my Ninja 400 to work. Based on experience, the first service for a new bike should be completed within the first 600 to 1,000 kilometers, mainly to ensure smooth engine break-in. After that, I get it checked every 6,000 kilometers or every six months, whichever comes first, so I don’t forget and delay things. During maintenance, besides changing the oil, I also adjust the chain tension. If I frequently ride on muddy roads, I shorten the interval to every 4,000 kilometers. Over time, I’ve noticed that tires and brakes wear out faster, so regular checks help avoid accidents, especially on slippery rainy days. An extra tip is to use a riding app to track data, making it easier to get timely reminders. Spending a little on maintenance is much more practical than dealing with a breakdown and needing a tow truck.

Riding a Ninja 400 on a limited budget, knowing the maintenance schedule can save money and hassle. The first service for a new bike around 600 km costs just a few hundred yuan, followed by maintenance every 6,000 km or six months, with basic items like an oil change costing tens of yuan. If mileage is low, say only 3,000 km a year, opt for biannual servicing to prevent part aging. I prioritize affordable tasks like chain adjustments and tire checks, as neglecting them leads to higher repair costs. Booking in advance with a reliable shop can get discounts, making the total cost much cheaper than skipping maintenance and facing major repairs later. A well-planned schedule extends the bike’s lifespan while keeping expenses low.


