2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R Launched Abroad

Recently, Kawasaki released a teaser of a new motorcycle bearing the ‘ZX’ moniker. Speculations hinted at an updated Ninja ZX-4R, but in a surprise move, it instead launched the 2023 Ninja ZX-25R in Indonesia. In this update, the mental supersport gets better tech, added features, sportier colours and one super focused track-spec variant as well.

Replacing the outgoing ZX-25R’s dated digi-analogue instrument cluster is a fully digital TFT instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity. Finally! Kawasaki recently gave the Versys 650 the same upgrade, helping it stay ahead with modern times. While existing features like traction control, quickshifter and ride modes have been carried forward from the previous-gen ZX-25R, the 2023 model gets an additional ride mode called ‘track’ for that extra zing.

That said, the underpinnings and the powertrain on the 2023 ZX-25R remain unchanged and its 249.8cc inline-four engine will likely make the same 51PS and 22.9Nm. Aesthetically however, the new ZX-25R gets a new and larger exhaust which looks inspired by its older sibling the Ninja ZX-10R. Other than that, there aren’t any significant changes to the sharp and aggressive styling of the ZX-25R.
That said, the SE variant now gets two new colours - Metallic Matte Graphene Steel Grey and Candy Permission Red.

Lastly, Kawasaki has also launched a new variant called the Ninja ZX-25RR. It gets fully adjustable Showa USD fork and a Showa BFRC monoshock for a more focused supersport experience. Wrapped in the ‘Kawasaki Racing Team’ livery, this variant is a racer’s wet dream.

Sounds exciting, no? But here’s the challenge in wishing for the ZX-25R and ZX-25RR in India. The Ninja 400 which retails in India is easily the best sub-400cc supersport bikes money can buy today. However, at Rs 4.99 lakh (ex-showroom) it also costs a lot of money because it comes from Japan as a completely-built-up unit attracting absurd taxes. Imagine the criminal pricing for one of these ZX-25s post import duties!