Kawasaki Unveils Versys 300: A New Contender in Adventure Biking
Introduction to the Versys 300
In response to the growing competition in India's adventure biking market, Kawasaki has introduced the Versys 300, a fresh variant in its lineup. This motorcycle is set to compete with established models like the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and the KTM 390 Adventure. Despite the tough competition, the Versys 300 has already carved out a significant presence in the motorcycle community, indicating its potential to meet market demands.
Pricing and Color Options
The Versys 300 is priced at ₹2.85 lakh ex-showroom, with another variant available at ₹2.98 lakh ex-showroom. Buyers can choose from two color options: Candy Lime Green/Metallic Flat Spark Black and Pearl Horizon White.
Design and Comfort Features
The design of the Versys 300 mirrors that of its global counterpart, featuring a tall windscreen and a fuel tank designed for comfortable long-distance rides. To minimize wind resistance, the bike is equipped with a semi-fairing.
Specifications and Features
The motorcycle boasts 19-inch front and 17-inch rear wire-spoked wheels, with a ground clearance of 180mm and a kerb weight of 185kg. Its riding triangle has been optimized for comfort during long rides, featuring mid-set footpegs and wide, raised handlebars, making it suitable for both touring and off-road adventures.
Additional features include an assist slipper clutch, dual throttle valves, and an economical riding mode indicator. The Versys 300 shares its engine with the Ninja 300, powered by a 296cc liquid-cooled parallel twin engine that delivers approximately 40 PS and a peak torque of 26 Nm. The bike is equipped with conventional RSU telescopic forks in the front and a monoshock in the rear, along with dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety.
Comparison with Competitors
| Comparison | Kawasaki Versys 300 | KTM 250 Adventure | Himalayan 450 | Royal Enfield Scram 440 | KTM Enduro R | KTM Adventure 390 |
| Price | ₹3.80 lakh | ₹2,59,850 ex-showroom | ₹2,85,000 to ₹2,98,000 | ₹2.08 to ₹2.15 lakh | ₹3,36,500 | ₹3.41 to ₹3.64 lakh |
| Power | 296cc engine with 40 PS | 249.07cc engine producing 31 PS | 452cc engine with 40.02 PS | 25.4 PS | 45.37 bhp | 43.5 PS |
| Torque | 26 Nm | 25 Nm | 40 Nm | 34 Nm | 39 Nm | 37 Nm |
| Suspension | Telescopic fork, 41 mm, 130 mm travel | WP APEX USD forks, 43 mm, 200 mm travel | Showa USD 43 mm forks | Inverted forks/monoshock | WP Apex suspension | WP Apex suspension |
Considering the pricing and performance specifications, the Royal Enfield Scram may emerge as a favorable option for potential buyers.