The Adventure Bike Makes Its Comeback
After being absent for a while from Indian showrooms for some time Kawasaki’s Versys X-300 has quietly slipped back to the market. The price tag is 3.80 million (ex-showroom, Delhi), this motorbike will appeal to those who are looking for something more upscale than the usual entry-level ADV models.
It’s not a new wheel. However, it does bring several interesting components on the scene. It has that distinct Kawasaki DNA that is inherited from the larger Versys models, and a an established engine that’s used for Ninja 300. Ninja 300 for years.
What’s Under the Hood
The engine at the heart of the Versys X-300 is a familiar partner: the exact 296cc parallel-twin engine that drives the Ninja 300. The liquid-cooled engine produces 38.5 HP as well as 26.1 Nm of torque although it may not sound that impressive on paper However, the parallel-twin design makes it appear more powerful than single-cylinder ADVs aren’t able to match.
The power transmission is fluid and straight which makes it comfortable moving through traffic in the city or on highways. Kawasaki has combined the transmission with a six-speed and added the slipper clutch and assist to add some spice. It’s not a revolutionary technology however it’s the kind that makes riding comfortable.
Design and Build Quality
Visually the X-300 draws heavily on its larger siblings in the Versys collection. The look is reminiscent of the adventure with a tall stance, a prominent bird’s eye, as well as that shrewd design that suggests it’s up to do more than the tarmac. At 184kg, it’sn’t an exact featherweight however it’s still manageable for the majority of riders.
Its 180mm clearance will be able to handle the majority of the challenges Indian roads offer, although serious off-roaders might be a little limiting. Wire-spoke wheels add that look of a bike on the road however they’re not tubeless. This feels as a missed chance in 2024.
The Competition Reality Check
This is where the fun begins and possibly difficult for Kawasaki. The world of adventure bikes in India is getting pretty busy in recent times. Its Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 offers more power and is arguably superior off-road capabilities. KTM’s 390 Adventure brings more power and features to the table.
Both models have tubeless tires as a standard feature or an option this is now becoming more of the norm than the exception. The Versys X300’s wire spokes that have tube-type tires can feel somewhat old-fashioned, but not always in a good way.
The Price Question
At at a price of 3.80 lakh at the time of writing, the Versys X-300 sits at a price that is higher than some of its competition. This is nearly a million more than the price you’d pay for similar bikes from other brands. Many on these forums have already started discussing whether this premium is justified.
The answer will likely depend on the things you value most. If you’re a fan of Kawasaki’s long-standing brand history and the supple appearance of a twin engine, the cost could be worth it. If you’re looking primarily at features and specs per dollar it’s possible to find more affordable options available.
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Who Should Consider This Bike
The Versys X-300 makes the most sense for those who prefer the finer details over raw performance figures. It’s a bike for people who want an outdoor bike that is refined and well-constructed, no matter if you’re on the road during the week or going out on weekends of exploration.
The engine’s dual-twin configuration has a distinct personality distinct from the loud singles that dominate this market. It’s more smooth, refined, and most likely more enjoyable for long rides on roads with good quality.
Final Thoughts
Kawasaki’s decision of bringing back its Versys X-300 suggests they see an opportunity for premium smaller-displacement bikes for adventure in India. If that market is large enough and willing to shell out the top price remains to be seen.
The bike itself is strong well-built and has an authentic individuality to the category. It may not be the winner on the basis of a comparison sheet but motorbikes aren’t only simply about the numbers printed on a piece of paper. Sometimes, how the bike feels is more important than how much power it produces or the amount of features it has.
If you’re a rider who likes Kawasaki’s philosophy and aren’t afraid of paying a little extra for a more refined ride the Versys X-300 could be exactly what they’ve been hoping for.
