Seven cool 400cc class recommendations that can be ridden with a standard motorcycle license

The 400cc class is a category with "just the right" power and presence that can be enjoyed with a standard motorcycle license. It is a versatile class that can handle everything from city riding to touring and high-speed riding in a well-balanced manner. Here are seven "cool" 400cc class models that I have selected at my own discretion and prejudice from among the models that will be available for purchase as of 2025.

What is a standard motorcycle license?

A standard motorcycle license is a vehicle classification under Japan's Road Traffic Law that allows the holder to operate a two-wheeled vehicle (including one with a side-wheel) with an engine displacement between 50cc and 400cc and a motor rated output between 0.6kW and 20kW or less. In 1996, the "medium-sized limited motorcycle license," or "Chuken," was changed to the "standard motorcycle license" in accordance with the revised license system, and in 2005, the "AT limited" license was also established.

Consider the current status of the 400cc class

Before the 1996 revision of the license system, large motorcycles were considered "expensive" in Japan due to the difficulty of obtaining a license, and the 400 cc class was the upper limit for ordinary riders. Looking back, the "second motorcycle boom" of the 1980s and early 1990s was the best time for the mid-size class. Various models were lined up by various domestic manufacturers, and consumers had a very wide range of choices. However, in the second half of the 1990s, stricter exhaust gas regulations forced cost increases, and lineups continued to decline. 400cc is a special displacement class created by the Japanese license system, and models "designed exclusively for 400cc" were not in demand in overseas markets, making it difficult to expand globally. The current situation is that models "designed specifically for the 400cc class" are not well suited to the needs of overseas markets, making global development difficult. However, it is good to see new signs of this class entering the Japanese market, as many foreign manufacturers, such as Triumph and Royal Enfield, have entered the Japanese market.

Seven recommendations

The "GB350 C" was released by HONDA in October 2024. This is a derivative model of the "GB350", which was developed for Japan based on the "Hynes CB350" announced by HONDA India in September 2020 and launched in Japan in April '21. The main characteristic of this "GB350 C" is its classicism. Its styling has a massive front section with front fork covers and headlight covers, as well as larger front and rear fenders. The separate type seat and horizontal muffler emphasize a lower and wider profile. The new model will be available in two new colors, "Matte Sandstorm Beige" and "Matte Bullet Silver," starting October 31, 2025, with a total of two color variations and some specification changes. If you like classic single-cylinder motorcycles and are looking for a reliable domestic product, the "GB350" is the only choice among the current models in the 400cc class. Choose from "GB350," "GB350 S," or "GB350 C" according to your preference.

<h3HONDA "CBR400R

The "CBR400R" was released by HONDA in April 2013. The car's name is inherited from the NC23 model "CBR400R" released in 1986, and the new model is the NC47 model with a new inline 2-cylinder engine. The current model is a road sports model developed in March 2024 under the development concept of "Modern Racing Art," and is compact, easy to handle, and pursues both sportiness and comfort. It is equipped with a 5-inch full-color TFT LCD meter and is fully equipped with the latest features, such as compatibility with Honda Roadsync, which enables linkage with a smartphone. This model is recommended for Honda enthusiasts who want to enjoy a sports model in a casual manner.

KAWASAKI "ELIMINATOR

The "ELIMINATOR" was launched by KAWASAKI in 2023. The car's name started with the 900cc model "ZL900-A1" released for export in 1985, followed by the 750cc model "ZL750-A1" for the domestic market in the same year, and the 400cc model "ZL400-A1" the next year in 1986. Unlike most cruisers, the ZL400-A1 was also unique in that it was developed based on the concept of a drag racer. The engine from Kawasaki's GPZ sports model was diverted and set up to emphasize start-up acceleration . Other variations included 600, 500, and 250cc models. *In addition to the GPZ engine, there was also a 250V equipped with a V-twin cylinder engine developed as a new model and a 125cc single-cylinder model. The new model is equipped with the same parallel two-cylinder engine as the Ninja 400/Z400, and features a detuned setting that emphasizes low and mid-speed acceleration. The new model also emphasizes ease of handling, with a riding position that accommodates a wide range of riders and a modern reinterpretation of the low-and-long style, establishing a unique styling that matches a variety of lifestyles. The seat height of 735mm ensures a stable footing, which is also attractive. The ELIMINATOR is the standard model, and the ELIMINATOR PLAZA EDITION, an intermediate model, and the ELIMINATOR SE, a top-of-the-line model, are also available. The ELIMINATOR is different from the traditional cruisers, but it is gaining popularity as the only 400cc model cruiser in Japan at present.

KAWASAKI "Ninja 400

The "Ninja 400" was released by KAWASAKI in 2018. The "Ninja" was originally a pet name for the "GPz900R" released for the international market in 1984, followed by the 400cc model "GPz400R" in 1985. In 1985, a 400cc model, the GPz400R, was introduced, and while the GPz900R and GPz400R were liquid-cooled 4-stroke, 4-cylinder models, the Ninja 650R was introduced in 2006 as a liquid-cooled 4-stroke, 2-cylinder model for the international market. In 2013, the Ninja 400R underwent a full model change, losing the "R" designation and becoming the Ninja 400. The current model was introduced in 2018 as a sibling sharing a common platform with the Ninja 250. The Ninja 400 features the latest full-cowl sports design, but also emphasizes everyday usability and touring performance. Weighing just 167 kg, the Ninja 250 is extremely lightweight and offers both maneuverability and rideability. On November 1, 2025, the 2026 model was released with new colors and graphics. This is a recommended model for those who want to casually enjoy a sports model with a standard motorcycle license.

TRIUMPH "SPEED 400

The "SPEED 400" was first announced in 2023 by the long-established British motorcycle manufacturer TRIUMPH, and then went on sale in Japan in 2024. This is the first time in more than half a century that Triumph has offered a small to medium displacement model in its lineup, and it is a completely new design, from the engine to the frame. The new Triumph Bentley is the first small to medium displacement Triumph in over half a century, and features a completely redesigned engine and frame. It is powered by a liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine and features Triumph's signature beautiful design for a modern classic look. A sibling Scrambler model, the SCRAMBLER 400 X, is also in the lineup. For some motorcycle license riders, the Triumph of their dreams is finally within reach. We recommend this machine for you.

Benelli "IMPERIALE 400

The "IMPERIALE 400" was conseptively unveiled by Benelli of Italy at EICMA in 2017 and will be launched in the Indian market in 2019. 2022 from Benelli's authorized importer and distributor in Japan and handling importer "Proto Co. Benelli is one of the world's oldest motorcycle manufacturers, having started out as a motorcycle manufacturer in 1911. After a long and tortuous history, Benelli became part of the China Qianjiang Group (Q.J.) in 2005 and is now expanding globally. The IMPERIALE 400 was designed by Benelli as an expansion of its "retro line" and "single-cylinder classic models," and features a "reinterpretation" of the classic Benelli-MotoBi models of the 1950s. It features a "reinterpreted" design of the classic Benelli-MotoBi line from the 1950s. The air-cooled 4-stroke single-cylinder engine, round headlight, dual analog gauges and teardrop tank, Capton muffler, and spoked wheels give it a classic look. This model is recommended for those who like classic models and do not want to be seen with others. Because of its rarity, consider purchasing one after gathering sufficient information and understanding about parts supply, maintenance, etc. Since it has been announced that production will end in July 2025, new cars in Japan will be sold only at Benelli dealers' inventories. If you are interested in this product, please contact the dealer as soon as possible.

ROYAL ENFIELD "CLASSIC 350

The "CLASSIC 350" was introduced in the Indian market in 2008 by the Indian motorcycle manufacturer "ROYAL ENFIELD". As many of you already know, "ROYAL ENFIELD" is one of the oldest motorcycle manufacturers founded in England in 1901. The "CLASSIC 350" was inspired by the "Model G2" released in 1948, and was designed with the "classic British motorcycle appearance" + "structural reliability" elements that the G2 possessed in mind. In 2021, the model underwent a full model change with significant design improvements, including a newly designed "J-series engine," "new frame," and "renewed suspension," and was first introduced in Japan in 2022. The 2024 model features LED headlights and position lamps, dual-channel ABS, etc., as standard equipment, while the 2025 model is further enhanced with the addition of a gear position indicator and USB Type-C connector as standard equipment. It is a car with a full British classic atmosphere. We recommend this model to those who love classic cars and are not particular about domestic cars.

Summary

The 400cc class is the largest displacement motorcycle that can be ridden with a standard motorcycle license, and has evolved as a category unique to Japan. In the past, high-performance sports models competed with each other, symbolizing Japan's unique technological competition. However, what is required of the 400cc class today is a perfect balance that neither large- nor small-displacement motorcycles can provide. It is a "motorcycle-like quality" that cannot be expressed in numbers or speed alone, and a "just-right balance" that is easy to handle and runs in its own way. The seven models introduced here are all "cool and attractive" with both individuality and style. We hope you found them helpful in your choice of bike. To the gallery (9)