India Kawasaki Motors launches the 2012 edition of the Kawasaki Ninja 650 at a price of rnRs 5, 00,000 (ex-showroom Delhi)

After tasting success with the 2011 Kawasaki Ninja 650R, the Japanese major has rolled out the latest generation of the model on Indian shores. The 2012 edition comes with a complete makeover which gives this new mid-muscle an endearing style and a more aggressive feel than its rather bland looking predecessor.

The redesigned bodywork of Kawasaki’s new middle weight motorcycle gets its design cues from the flagship Ninja ZX – 14R. It boasts improved aerodynamics thanks to the louvres added to its sides. The new instrument cluster continues to feature a digital speedometer but the digital tachometer has been replaced with an analogue one. The handle bars of the new 650 are 20mm wider for enhanced rider control and comfort. The twin pipe swing-arm not only improves rigidity but also gives a funky touch to the rear of the motorcycle.

While the new Ninja 650 carries a completely new look, it retains the same 649cc engine, DOHC, 8-valve parallel-twin engine, that churns a maximum power of 72PS @ 8500rpm and 66Nm of torque @ 7000rpm.   

Needless to say all these updates came at a price and at Rs 5, 00,000 (ex-showroom Delhi), the new model costs over Rs 40, 000 more than the 2011 edition. The 2012 Kawasaki Ninja 650 will be available in more than 50 KTM/Kawasaki showrooms across the country.

Managing Director of Bajaj Auto Rajiv Bajaj said, “KTM and Kawasaki are our global business partners and along with them we aim to build on our already dominant position in the sports motorcycle segment in India with the Pulsar. There are a number of initiatives in the pipeline on all these three brands that would be introduced over the next 18 months.”

Bajaj Auto is extremely clear about its expansion plans and will bring in more premium products from Kawasaki and KTM soon. The only question now is, when the Pune-based motorcycle manufacturer plans to bring in the new generation Ninja 250R. With the model already launched internationally, the wait may not be too long.