What is the oil specification for Kawasaki Z400?
2 Answers
The oil specification for Kawasaki Z400 is 95. Introduction to motorcycle oil: Motorcycle oil is the abbreviation for motorcycle engine lubricating oil. Functions of motorcycle oil: Lubrication and wear reduction: There is rapid relative sliding between the piston and cylinder, as well as between the main shaft and bearing bush. To prevent excessive wear of parts, an oil film needs to be established between the two sliding surfaces. A sufficiently thick oil film separates the surfaces of the relatively sliding parts, thereby achieving the purpose of reducing wear. Cooling: The oil can bring heat back to the oil tank and then dissipate it into the air, helping the radiator to cool the engine. Cleaning: Good oil can carry carbon deposits, sludge, and worn metal particles from engine parts back to the oil tank through circulation. The flow of the lubricating oil washes away dirt generated on the working surfaces of the parts. Sealing and leakage prevention: Oil can form a sealing ring between the piston ring and piston, reducing gas leakage and preventing external pollutants from entering. Rust and corrosion prevention: Lubricating oil can adhere to the surfaces of parts, preventing contact with water, air, acidic substances, and harmful gases. Vibration damping: When the pressure at the engine cylinder port rises sharply, suddenly increasing the load on the piston, piston skirt, connecting rod, and crankshaft bearings, this load is transmitted and lubricated through the bearings, cushioning the impact load.
I've been riding my Kawasaki Z400 for two years now, and the factory-recommended oil grade is 10W-40. This viscosity works well in temperatures ranging from -20°C to 40°C, making it suitable for both summer mountain rides and winter commuting. The manual specifically emphasizes using JASO MA-certified motorcycle oil because wet clutches require special formulations. I once tried 15W-50 oil, but cold starts became noticeably slower. After switching back to 10W-40, the engine noise smoothed out significantly. I recommend changing the oil every 5,000 kilometers and checking the oil level in the sight glass while you're at it—if it's below the midpoint, top it up. For the oil filter, it's best to use genuine OEM parts, as aftermarket ones sometimes have sizing discrepancies.
