Bimota's new sports model, whose announcement was recently hinted at, has been officially unveiled. The model is the KB399, which pursues a WSBK-spec racing style with a 400cc inline 4-cylinder engine from the ZX-4R series and an exterior modeled after the KB998 Rimini. Kawasaki, which is introducing this machine in Japan, plans to release it around spring 2027!

Fusion of the legendary 400cc 4-cylinder engine and advanced chassis design

At the heart of the ZX is a 399cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke inline 4-cylinder engine that delivers class-leading power and a sensual revving feel. Its characteristics, which combine powerful torque in the low to mid range with overwhelming extension in the high-rpm range, demonstrate its true value in circuit driving. For this reason, the bodywork is finished with an emphasis on race use, and the exhaust system is equipped with a specially designed Akrapovic titanium silencer as standard equipment. The highly rigid frame is painted in a color newly developed for this model, and is equipped with SHOWA 41mm diameter SFF-BP inverted front forks and SHOWA BFRC light shock units in the rear. The braking system features radial-mounted Brembo Stylesma monoblock calipers. A higher-end model, the ES, is also available, and it uses Öhlins STX46 shock units.

The new Bimota model that was recently teased was the 400cc SS KB399!

The engine and frame are based on the Kawasaki ZX-4R, while the "ES" grade features Bimota's typical high quality carbon exterior.

The frame is painted in a special color. Silencers and footpegs are also exclusive parts.

Italian design pursuing the highest level of artistry and aerodynamic performance

The exterior design is inherited from the KB998 Rimini, the flagship model and the base model for the WSBK competition, and combines functional beauty and artistry at a high level. In particular, dry carbon is used for the upper, side, and under cowl of the higher-end ES model, achieving an overwhelming sense of quality and weight reduction. The winglets, reminiscent of those used on World Superbikes, are proof of the latest aerodynamic technology. Craftsmanship also shines through in the details, with machined aluminum triple clamps and steering stem caps adding to the premium feel.

The front and rear suspension is made by SHOWA. The "ES" grade uses Öhlins STX46 rear shocks.

The braking system is by Brembo. Stylesma monoblock calipers are used on the front.

KB399

Akrapovic titanium silencers with carbon end caps and heel guards - ø41mm Showa SFF-BP upside-down front forks (for KB399/KB399 ES only) - Showa BFRC lite rear shock (standard model only) - Brembo Brembo Stylema radial mount monoblock calipers ・Machined aluminum triple clamps ・Machined aluminum steering stem cap ・Winglets

KB399 ES

Carbon fiber upper cowling - Carbon fiber side cowling with air vents - Carbon fiber winglets - Carbon fiber lower cowling - Ohlins STX46 rear shock - Machined aluminum clip-on handlebar - Machined aluminum step (2 positions) Shaved aluminum step (2 positions) ・Machined aluminum shift pedal (adjustable knob position) ・Machined aluminum brake pedal (adjustable knob position) Although detailed specifications are not available at this stage, Kawasaki, which is introducing the Bimota in Japan, has already announced the Japanese introduction and pricing schedule. According to this announcement, both the KB399 and KB399 ES will be introduced in spring 2027. The KB399 is priced at 1,466,300 yen and the ES at 2,453,000 yen.

*A correction was made on March 19, 2026 regarding information on the KB399 ES. It was stated that the KB399 ES is equipped with "carbon pillion seat covers (single seat covers)" as one of the main equipment and features, but the KB399 ES with domestic specifications is not equipped with single seat covers. The photo shows the overseas version. Go to (9)

Like this article