The Kawasaki Ninja 300, affectionately nicknamed the "Baby Ninja," has carved a unique niche in the Indian motorcycle market. Introduced in 2013, this entry-level sports bike captivated riders with its blend of aggressive looks, beginner-friendly ergonomics, and peppy performance. So, even as newer contenders emerge, the question remains: does the Ninja 300 still hold its own in 2024 India?
Design
With its sharp fairing, dual headlights, and aggressive stance, the Ninja 300 boasts a design language that instantly screams "Ninja." While it might not turn heads as dramatically as its bigger siblings, the clean lines and sporty silhouette never fail to impress. Available in three colour options – Lime Green, Candy Lime Green, and Metallic Moondust Grey – the Ninja 300 offers a choice for both the flamboyant and the subtle.
Performance
The heart of the Ninja 300 lies in its 296cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine. While the 39 PS and 26.1 Nm torque figures might not seem earth-shattering, the power delivery is smooth and linear, making it perfect for both city commutes and highway jaunts. The six-speed gearbox is slick and precise, offering seamless gear changes. The lightweight trellis frame ensures nimble handling, allowing riders to tackle corners with confidence. The suspension setup, while slightly on the stiffer side, provides good feedback and stability, especially on Indian roads.
Convenience
One of the biggest strengths of the Ninja 300 is its beginner-friendliness. With an approachable seat height of 780mm, comfortable riding position, and intuitive controls, it eases even new riders into the world of sporty motorcycles. The assist and slipper clutch reduce lever effort and prevent rear wheel lock-up, respectively, boosting confidence and control. Additionally, the manageable weight of 179 kg makes manoeuvring a breeze in tight traffic situations.
Kawasaki Ninja 300 vs competition
However, the Indian motorcycle market is a constantly evolving battleground. The Kawasaki Ninja 300 faces stiff competition from rivals like the KTM RC 390, TVS Apache RR 310, and the CFMoto 300NK. The KTM offers more power and aggressive handling, while the TVS provides impressive value for money with its feature-packed offering. The CFMoto, a new entrant, brings a unique blend of affordability and sporty character.
Price
The Kawasaki Ninja 300 starts at Rs. 3.43 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), making it more expensive than some of its competitors. While the Kawasaki brand name and premium build quality hold value, the price difference might be a deal-breaker for budget-conscious buyers. Additionally, features like ABS and a fully digital instrument cluster, which are standard on some rivals, are optional extras on the Ninja 300.
Verdict
Despite its challenges, the Kawasaki Ninja 300 remains a compelling option for riders seeking a stylish, beginner-friendly, and peppy sports bike. Its potent engine, nimble handling, and comfortable ergonomics offer a thrilling riding experience. However, the higher price tag and lack of certain features compared to its rivals require careful consideration.
You can avail of a Bajaj Finserv Two-wheeler Loan to boost your purchase budget. With this instant finance option, you can secure up to 100% funding of the bike’s on-road cost, flexible EMI tenures of up to 72 months, and nominal interest rates.
