What is the recommended tire pressure for Kawasaki Ninja 400?
2 Answers
The normal tire pressure range for Kawasaki Ninja 400 is: front tire should be maintained at around 1.70 bar, and rear tire should be kept between 2.0-2.2 bar. Hazards of over-inflation: Reduced tire friction and adhesion, affecting braking performance; Accelerates wear on the central tread pattern, shortening tire lifespan; Decreased puncture resistance. When encountering sharp objects like nails or glass on the road, they can easily penetrate the tire, causing internal cracks or blowouts. Hazards of under-inflation: Increases movement of tire components, causing abnormal heat due to excessive rolling; Multiplies friction between tire and road, rapidly increasing tire temperature and softening the tire, drastically reducing strength. This may lead to blowouts during high-speed riding; Increases tire body deformation, making sidewalls prone to cracks while generating excessive heat from flexing, accelerating rubber aging, fabric layer fatigue, and cord breakage. It also enlarges the tire's contact patch, speeding up shoulder wear.
I've been riding the Kawasaki Ninja400 for several years, and I think tire pressure is quite a nuanced matter. Generally, around 32 psi for the front tire and 36 psi for the rear tire is most suitable, and measuring it when the tires are cold gives the most accurate reading. If the tire pressure is too low, the tires are prone to deformation, making cornering unstable and accelerating wear; if it's too high, the ride becomes stiff, comfort decreases, and there's a higher risk of a blowout on bumpy roads. When I carry passengers or luggage, I usually increase the pressure slightly by 1-2 psi, adjusting the rear tire to 38 psi for added peace of mind. It's best to check with a pressure gauge every week, especially before long trips. I remember one time when the tire pressure was low, I nearly slid out during a high-speed turn—since then, I've made it a habit to check regularly. Don't overlook tire pressure; it directly affects both safety performance and tire lifespan.
