If you’ve been eyeing the Z900 but the price tag kept you at bay, the Z300 is finally here to fill that gap. Priced at ₹3.24 lakh ex-showroom, it slots into a segment currently dominated by single-cylinder motorcycles, offering a distinct alternative with its parallel-twin heart. It’s not the cheapest option in the class, but the package justifies the premium for riders who value character over raw, high-revving aggression.
Under the fairing, you get the familiar 296cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine shared with the Ninja 300. It pushes out 39hp at 11,000rpm and 26.1Nm of torque at 10,000rpm, mated to a six-speed gearbox. While the numbers might look modest next to the KTM 390 Duke’s single-cylinder punch, the experience is fundamentally different. The twin delivers power more linearly and smoothly, making it arguably a better fit for daily commuting and relaxed weekend touring than a high-strung single.
The hardware is largely borrowed from the Ninja 300, which is a good thing. You get the same tubular frame, 37mm conventional telescopic forks up front, and a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear. Braking is handled by a 290mm petal disc up front and a 220mm one at the back, both with dual-channel ABS. It’s 17-inch alloy wheels help keep the weight down, maintaining the agile handling that makes the Ninja 300 so popular in Indian traffic.
Styling follows Kawasaki’s ‘Sugomi’ design language, drawing clear cues from the larger Z900. The wide, upright handlebar gives it a commanding streetfighter stance, while the reverse LCD instrument cluster—similar to the one found on the Ninja 500—adds a modern touch. You only have two color choices: Lime Green and Black. It’s a bold look that sets it apart from the sea of naked bikes on the road.
Competition is tough, though. The KTM 390 Duke costs ₹2.85 lakh, and the TVS Apache RTR 310 is even cheaper at ₹2.30 lakh. Both rivals offer more aggressive chassis setups and higher peak horsepower figures. However, the Z300 appeals to a specific buyer: someone who wants the Kawasaki badge, the distinctive twin-cylinder sound, and a smoother ride quality without needing to spend upwards of ₹5 lakh for a proper liter bike. It’s a niche play, but a well-executed one.