2014 EICMA: Kawasaki Z300 uncovered

Apart from showcasing the Kawasaki H2 superbike at the 2014 EICMA motorcycle show, the Japanese two-wheeler giant also unveiled a new entry-level street bike offering. Christened the Kawasaki Z300, the new motorcycle is the naked version of the Kawasaki Ninja 300. The styling of the Kawasaki Z300 is similar to the Kawasaki Z250 that was launched in the Indian two-wheeler market last month. Kawasaki Z250 launched in India

Powering the bike is the same 296cc, parallel-twin motor as seen on the Kawasaki Ninja 300. The liquid-motor in the Kawasaki Z300 churns out 39PS of power and 27Nm of torque. The power output on the Kawasaki Z300 is similar to that of its faired sibling. Power is transmitted to the rear-wheel via a 6-speed gearbox whereas the slipper clutch is standard. The Kawasaki Z300 employs a tubular steel chassis as seen on the Ninja 300. But, instead of the clip-on bars, the Kawasaki Z300 sports a single-piece handlebar to better suit its street fighter dynamics.

The wheels, brakes and suspension have been carried forward from the Ninja 300. ABS, though, is an optional extra in the European market. The Kawasaki Z300 tips the scale at 168kg whereas the ABS version weighs in at 170kg. The bike will retail for Rs 5 lakh in the European market and will be available in two shades of green and metallic black or grey and metallic black. The Kawasaki Z300 will not make its way into the Indian two-wheeler market as the Kawasaki Z250 was recently launched.