Are the NS400Z good enough to keep up with larger bikes on track days?
Indian motorcycle enthusiasts are finding more and more ways to enjoy their bikes, and NS400Z owners want to know how these bikes perform in track days. Although it is not a dedicated track machine, with its sporty nature and powerful engine, the NS400Z may well have done quite well on a racetrack. But it has questions about its suspension, brakes and tyre choices when pushed to the limit. A few riders have fiddled with their NS400Zs for improved track performance, others leave them bone stock. The debate is whether the bike will be able to compete with the larger displacement bikes from premium brands. Many owners are keen on the idea of being able to enjoy track days without having to fork out for a separate, more expensive track only bike.
I took my stock NS400Z to a track day and was surprised at how well it did. It’s not quite as quick as the 600cc supersports, but it can quite more than hold its own in the corners. The engine really helps on corner exits.
On track it's fun, but you hit the limits pretty quickly. Its brakes fade after a few hard laps and the suspension is too soft for serious track use. It wouldn’t even be track worthy as is, so you’d have to invest in upgrades.
I've been to track days and seen some really fast guys on NS400Zs. The rider is more important than the bike. You can definetly hang with bigger bikes with some minor mods like better brake pads and stickier tires. You won't win any races, but that's all.
I tried it once, it was a blast, but I wouldn't make a habit of it. The bike doesn’t feel quite at home on track. It’s better for street riding and the odd twisty road blast.
I’ve been around a bunch of NS400Zs as a track day instructor. These are great bikes for the beginner to learn the basics of riding track. If you can’t carry corner speed, and you’re smooth on the straights, you’ll get passed, but you’ll learn a lot.
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Discussions and Questions Are The Ns400z Good Enough To Keep Up With Larger Bikes On Track Days
Are the NS400Z good enough to keep up with larger bikes on track days?
30 January 2025 10:06
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