Kawasaki Z250 launched at Rs. 2.99 lakh

Kawasaki has launched their new entry level motorcycle for the Indian market, the Z250. This new motorcycle as the name suggests is categorised under the Z-class and is a naked motorcycle. The Z250 has been launched at a price of Rs. 2.99 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

As is the case with bigger Z-class motorcycles like the Z800 and Z1000, the design language is sharp with a funky looking headlamp fairing, floating side cowls in ‘Z’ shape, split and step-up seats, full-size exhaust with silver accents, 5 bi-spoke alloy wheels etc. Where the front end and side profile are noticeably different, the rear end resembles the Ninja 300 currently on sale. The bike has an analogue + digital instrument cluster identical to the Ninja 300. Riding position is not upright with a single-piece conventional handlebar.

Powering the Z250 you have a 249cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin petrol motor producing 33 BHP of power and 21 Nm of torque mated to a 6-speed transmission. There is no slipper clutch provided on the Z250 like you have on the Ninja 300. There is a telescopic front fork and rear monoshock for suspension duties. Stopping power comes from a 290mm front petal disc brake and a 220mm rear petal disc brake. Kawasaki still does not offer ABS even as an option while international models do get it.

The Ninja 300 costs about Rs. 4 lakh on-road and the Z250 will cost somewhere in the range of Rs. 3.3 – 3.4 lakh on road. We think that the Z250 is still a bit overpriced for all that it offers. Now, the Suzuki Inazuma makes a very competitive product proposition with almost similar specs, but just a little plain Jane design language. Not to forget, the KTM Duke 390, with more power, more tech and even ABS for a much lower price tag will be the clear winner.

The Z250 is currently available as CKD kits with about 40% localisation. Deliveries for the Z250 begin next month and the company has a nearly over ambitious plan of selling 300 units in the near future.