Kawasaki Versys-X 300 Test Mule Spotted In India

The sub-500 cc adventure motorcycle segment has been quite a busy segment with several manufacturers populating it with new offerings. Now it looks like Kawasaki India wants to join in the action too. As part of that endeavour, the Kawasaki Versys-X 300 has been spotted for the first time in India being tested. 

It seems like the Versys is the second international-spec motorcycle that the Japanese bikemaker is aiming to localise and make it more cost-effective, just like the Ninja 300. Hence, the entire design and bodywork, like the single pod headlight with a transparent windshield, and long tank extensions that also act as the radiator guard, will remain the same. A humongous saree guard will also be added into the mix to comply with Indian laws. 

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Sadly, that means that the Versys will employ the same 296 cc, parallel-twin engine that also does duties in the Kawasaki Ninja 300. In the fully-faired sports bike, this mill produces 39 bhp and 26.1 Nm, and it is mated to a 6-speed gearbox equipped with an assist and slipper clutch. The same set-up is expected to feature in the ADV as well, albeit with slight tuning in the form of different gear ratios and combustion ratio to suit its character. 

While the rest of the world is getting primed for the arrival of the Ninja 500 and Z500, this approach from the Indian arm is rather disheartening. The 300 cc mill had been pulled from the shelves in most global markets nearly half a decade ago. However, Kawasaki India’s persistence with it, especially when it would be rather underpowered and not quite as impressive as the competition, leaves us rather confused.

Also Read: Kawasaki Z500 Updated For 2024, Gains New SE Variant

The unimpressive bits continue with the telescopic fork and a monoshock, which are likely to miss out on adjustability. It will ride on 100/90-19 (front) and 130/80-17 (rear) sized wheels, equipped with 290 mm front disc and 220 mm rear disc brakes. We think that the tyres and brakes will be sourced locally to make it accessible. 

When Will The Kawasaki Versys X 300 Launch In India?

There’s no official launch date as of yet. However, now that the bike has been spotted being tested in India, Kawasaki should launch the Versys X 300 in the coming months. Kawasaki used to sell the bike in the country at a dearly Rs 4.69 lakh (ex-showroom India). While this pricing would be sort of digestible in 2024, it was the asking price in 2018, which meant very few takers. And considering that the segment is doing rather well with bikes like the Royal Enfield Himalayan, Triumph Scrambler 400 X, and KTM 390 Adventure, the Versys-X 300’s lacklustre appeal is likely to not help out much.