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    Kawasaki Z650 RS 50th Anniversary Edition Launched In India

    2022 Kawasaki Z650 RS 50th Anniversary EditionThe 50th Anniversary Edition of Kawasaki Z650 RS gets identical features and specifications as the standard motorcycleA few weeks ago Kawasaki revealed the limited edition Z650 RS in India which has been developed on the occasion of completion of 50 years of the company’s iconic Z-lineup. This special edition 50th Anniversary model has been launched in the country at a price of Rs 6.79 lakh which is Rs 7,000 dearer to the standard Z650 RS.Only 20 units of this limited edition Z650 RS will be available for the Indian market and chances are by the time this report is published all of them will be booked. Bookings for the limited edition Z650 RS have commenced on the official website of Kawasaki India. Deliveries of the motorcycle will begin in March 2022.The neo-retro motorcycle, in its regular form, made its debut in India in October last year while deliveries of the motorcycle started in December 2021. In its standard avatar itself, Z650 RS is a handsome looking motorcycle with a neo-retro body style that is attracting both young and experienced riders alike nowadays.Kawasaki Z650 RS 50th Anniversary EditionIn the special edition model, the neo-retro charm of the bike is amplified a few notches higher. It is wrapped under a beautiful sparkly red livery named Candy Diamond Brown which borrows inspiration from the ‘Fireball’ colourway of the original 1972 Z1. White and black stripes are seen running across the length of body panels.2022 Kawasaki Z650 RS 50th Anniversary EditionEnhancing the bike’s street presence is a pair of golden-coloured alloy wheels and special ‘Z50th’ badging on the teardrop-shaped fuel tank. The seat cover also gets a different texture leather pattern which looks more premium.The rudimentary single-piece grab rail laced in chrome is the only piece of equipment that looks odd in this beautiful looking motorcycle. Apart from the cosmetic updates, this special edition model is identical to the stock Z650 RS.Powertrain, Hardware SpecsPowering the 50th Anniversary Z650 RS is the same 649cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin motor that performs duties on the standard model as well as other models in the Kawasaki 650 range. This unit pumps out 67.3 bhp at 8,000rpm and 64Nm of peak torque at 6,700rpm.Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via a 6-speed gearbox with a slipper and assist clutch for smoother shifts. The bike is based on a light steel trellis frame which is suspended on 41mm telescopic forks at front and a horizontally-mounted link-type suspension at rear. Braking duties are handled by twin 300mm front discs and a single 220mm rear disc which are aided by dual-channel ABS. More

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    2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 250 Debut – KTM 250 ADV Rival

    2022 Kawasaki Versys X 250Versys-X 250 2022 model is being offered at a starting retail price of 726,000 Yen in Japan, which is approximately INR 4.73 lakh
    Smallest capacity Versys in Kawasaki’s portfolio, Versys-X 250 adventure motorcycle is offered in select countries such as Japan, Indonesia, Thailand and Malaysia. The updated 2022 model goes on sale in its home market first. It could be followed by launch in other Asian markets.
    2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 250 key updates
    Updated Versys-X 250 packs in both cosmetic and functional updates. Two new colour options are available, one of which is Candy Lime Green with Metallic Flat Spark Black. This is essentially an all-black theme with contrasting green bits, as can be seen on the fuel tank and side panels.
    Second colour option is Metallic Ocean Blue with Pearl Robotic White. This theme utilizes a tri-shade combo of blue, white and black. This is not as vibrant and actually comes across as a bit noisy in comparison to the green-black colour option.
    Touring capabilities have been improved with the addition of metal panniers on both sides. These are 17-litre units each. More stuff can be mounted on the rear carrier that has four luggage hooks. Another key update is engine guard, which will be useful in mild off-road environments. It is to note that Versys-X 250 is a road-biased machine and not meant for extreme off-roading.
    2022 Kawasaki Versys X 250
    In terms of convenience, the bike gets a power socket and centre stand. Apart from these, there are no other changes to 2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 250.
    2022 Kawasaki Versys-X 250 engine and specs
    Engine is the same 248cc unit as that of outgoing model. It generates 33 ps of max power at 11,500 rpm and 21 Nm of peak torque at 10,000 rpm. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The engine is tuned to deliver linear response throughout low and middle rev range and powerful acceleration at high revs.
    The bike is equipped with assist and slipper clutch that offers multiple benefits. The clutch feels light, reducing rider fatigue whereas slipper works to avoid slipping and hopping of rear tyre.
    2022 Kawasaki Versys X 250
    Kawasaki Versys-X 250 utilizes a high-rigidity backbone frame, integrated with telescopic front forks and gas-filled type preload adjustable monoshock unit at rear. The bike runs on 19-inch front and 17-inch rear spoke wheels, shod with block-pattern tyres. Braking duties are performed by 290 mm and 220 mm petal discs at front and rear, respectively.
    It is unlikely that Versys-X 250 will be launched in India. The bike’s premium pricing could limit its potential in this segment. In case it does make it to our shores, Versys-X 250 will take on rivals like Yezdi Adventure and Royal Enfield Himalayan or even the KTM 250 ADV.
    For Indian market, Kawasaki is working on other products such as Z650 RS classic roadster. This bike has already been spotted on road tests here. It borrows much of its styling from its larger sibling Z900 RS. It is expected to be launched in the price range of Rs 6.50 – 7.0 lakh (ex-showroom). More

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    2022 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-25R Debuts With New Colour Option

    2022 Kawasaki Ninja ZX25R
    Kawasaki currently retails five models under the Ninja range of supersport bikes in India
    Kawasaki has launched an updated Ninja ZX-25R for 2022 in Japan at a price of JPY 9,35,000 (approx. INR 6.10 lakh). The latest iteration of the entry-level supersport bike from Team Green remains mechanically unchanged and only features a small cosmetic update.
    As part of the update, the ZX-25R gets a new colour scheme called Twilight Blue. The Blue paint scheme with grey and red graphics enhances the bike’s sinister appeal. Apart from the new shade, no other changes have been made to the superbike. This includes the overall design of the bike which is inspired by the flagship Ninja ZX-10R.
    2022 Ninja ZX-25R: Styling
    Ninja ZX25R is underpinned by a lightweight trellis frame which has been designed using Kawasaki’s advanced dynamic rigidity analysis. The frame delivers the required balance of strength and chassis flexibility to achieve nimble super sport-style handling.
    It also gets a unique arched swingarm design that enables the short underbelly exhaust to be positioned more centrally. This allows a better balance of the bike and also adds to its stylish, sporty looks.
    2022 Kawasaki Ninja ZX25R
    Other highlights such as a sharp split LED headlight setup, taillight, turn indicators on side fairings and a semi-digital instrument cluster have been retained in the current model. A muscular fuel tank and a heavily-faired front end give it a big bike appearance. The new colour option further accentuates the bike’s sharp lines.
    Powertrain Specs & Features
    Powering Ninja ZX-25R is a 250cc inline four-cylinder motor mated to a 6-speed gearbox. This powertrain pumps out 43.5 bhp at 15,500rpm and a peak torque of 21.1 Nm at 13,000rpm which makes it the most powerful quarter-litre motorcycle in production across the world. The motor also benefits from a quick shifter and a slipper and assist clutch which enables aggressive gear shifts.
    Other features offered by the superbike brand include Kawasaki Traction Control (KTRC) and ABS as a safety net. Ninja ZX-25R, even though the smallest in the range, is unlikely to reach Indian shores anytime soon. This is because the price at which it is available will not make it a viable option for a 250cc motorcycle.
    2022 Kawasaki Ninja ZX25R
    Other Updates
    Kawasaki currently retails five models under the Ninja range of sports bikes starting from the base Ninja 300 to the flagship Ninja H2R. The Japanese superbike brand could also add Ninja 400 to its India lineup in the coming future. Kawasaki recently introduced special 50th Anniversary editions of its Z series motorcycles which comprised Z650, Z900, Z650 RS and Z900 RS draped in a special paint scheme. More

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    Kawasaki Ninja 300, Z900, Versys 650 Prices Update – Jan 2022

    Image – Wanderlust PD
    Kawasaki currently has seventeen models in its India portfolio, the range starts with Ninja 300 at Rs 3.24 lakh (ex-showroom)
    Kawasaki has updated prices of almost all models retailed in India. The latest price revision will come into effect on January 1, 2022. The Japanese superbike brand has taken to its social media handle about the recent price hike where the latest prices of all motorcycles have been mentioned.
    Kawasaki Prices Jan 2022 – Ninja 300
    The range starts with Ninja 300 which is now priced at Rs 3.24 lakh and has witnessed a hike of Rs 6,000. Its elder sibling- Ninja 650 can be had at a price of Rs 6.68 lakh instead of Rs 6.61 lakh. The naked iteration of the 650cc sports bike- Z650 has been priced at 6.24 lakh and hasn’t undergone a revision in prices.
    The retro sibling of Z650 called Z650 RS also hasn’t undergone any price change since it hasn’t arrived in showrooms yet. The modern classic motorcycle is priced at Rs 6.72 lakh. The only cruiser offering from Team Green in India is Vulcan S which is now available at a price of Rs 6.16 lakh, an increment of Rs 6,000.
    ADV Lineup- Versys 650, Versys 1000
    The ADV lineup of Kawasaki has also witnessed a substantial increment in prices. Versys 650 is now available at a price of Rs 7.15 lakh, while Versys 1000 can be bought at Rs 11.72 lakh. Therefore, prices have been increased by Rs 22,500 and Rs 17,000 respectively.
    Kawasaki India Prices Jan 2022
    Flagship Range
    The flagship Ninja twins- 1000SX and ZX10-R are now respectively priced at Rs 11.51 lakh and Rs 15.37 lakh. Prices of both sports bikes have seen a jump of Rs 11,000 and Rs 23,000 respectively.
    Kawasaki W800 can now be bought at Rs 7.33 lakh. Earlier, the modern classic roadster was priced at Rs 7.08 lakh. Prices of Z900 have been increased by Rs 8,000 which now stands at Rs 8.50 lakh.
    The flagship range of motorcycle range in the entire Kawasaki lineup= Z H2 and Z H2 SE has not witnessed a hike in the latest price revisions. Both naked streetfighters continue to be priced at Rs 21.90 lakh and 25.90 lakh respectively. Kawasaki also hasn’t touched the existing prices of the brand’s KX range of dirt bikes.
    The range consists of KX100, KX250, KX450 and KX450R, the last of them recently launched in India. The bikes are priced at Rs 4.88 lakh, Rs 7.99 lakh, Rs 8.59 lakh and Rs 8.99 lakh respectively. All prices mentioned are ex-showroom. Kawasaki is planning to launch a new entry-level motorcycle in the form of W175. More

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    Kawasaki Z400RS Likely To Debut At EICMA – India Launch Next Year?

    2022 Kawasaki Z400RS Render. Image – Young MachineWhile it will wear retro clothing, Z400RS will borrow its engine and other hardware from naked Z400
    Kawasaki recently launched Z650RS in the Indian market at a starting price of Rs 6.65 lakh, ex-sh. Now reports indicate that Z400RS could also be under development. The bike is most likely to make its global debut at upcoming EICMA, scheduled from Nov 25-27 at Fiera Milano, Italy. It could be launched in India by end of next year. However, there’s no official word about Z400RS as of now.
    Z400RS styling and features
    In most parts, Kawasaki Z400RS will be using the same modern-retro design theme as that of its larger siblings, Z650RS and Z900RS. Expect the motorcycle to use retro styling bits such as round headlamp and rear-view mirrors, classic dual-dial instrument pods, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, wide ergonomically placed handlebar, spoke-style cast wheels, and flat seat design.
    The bike will have relaxed riding position with centrally placed footpegs. In terms of functionality, Z400RS will pack in a range of contemporary features. It is likely to get all-LED lighting and underbelly exhaust. Just like Z650RS, the smaller sibling will have blacked-out engine and frame.
    Z400RS will utilize a trellis frame made from sturdy, yet lightweight high tensile steel. Just like its larger siblings, the frame will allow easy manoeuvring in tight spots as well as better control and handling at high speeds. The frame is integrated with telescopic forks at front and swingarm rear suspension. Braking apparatus will be same as Z400, 310 mm single disc at front and 220 mm single disc at rear. Dual-channel ABS will be offered as standard.
    2022 Kawasaki Z400RS Render. Image – Young Machine
    Kawasaki Z400RS engine and specs
    Powering Kawasaki Z400RS will be the same 399cc engine, as offered with naked Z400. The 2-cylinder, liquid cooled, DOHC motor is capable of generating 47.5 bhp of max power and 38 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed, return shift transmission. This engine also does duty on Ninja 400 sportbike. It is known for its responsive power delivery, smooth performance and abundant low-end torque.
    The bike will have advanced features such as assist and slipper clutch. This ensures smooth gear shifts during rapid deceleration or accidental downshift. When riding at high speeds, this feature also helps avoid issues like rear tyre skidding and hopping. Another useful feature offered with Z400 is Economic Riding Indicator. This essentially helps the user to improve fuel efficiency of the bike.
    RS versions of Kawasaki motorcycles are usually costlier than their naked counterparts. For example, Z650 prices start at Rs 6.24 lakh whereas Z650RS is available at a starting price of Rs 6.65 lakh. A similar pricing is likely for Z400RS as well.
    In US, Z400 starts at $5,199, which is approximately Rs 3.84 lakh. Z400RS could be priced around Rs 4.5 lakh. Due to its high pricing, it will not have any direct rivals. However, it could be an option against the likes of Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. More

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    Kawasaki Z650RS India Launch Price Rs 6.65 L – Two Colour Options

    New Kawasaki Z650RS for IndiaPowering Kawasaki Z650RS will be the same parallel-twin engine as that of Ninja 650 and Z650
    2022 Kawasaki Z650RS was unveiled globally a few weeks back in September this year. Now, it has been launched in India at a starting price of Rs 6.65 lakh, ex-sh. At this price point, the Z650RS does not have any direct rivals in the segment. But it could be an option against the likes of Triumph Street Twin and Honda CB650R. Royal Enfield 650 twins can also be considered, but these are priced much lower at around Rs 3.5 lakh.
    Kawasaki Z650RS styling and features
    A number of styling bits have been borrowed from the larger capacity Z900RS. However, Z650RS comes across as more agile and manoeuvrable with its smaller tank and compact tail section. Indian version of the bike is largely the same as the one unveiled globally. Minor changes include a split grab rail that was spotted on a test mule in Mumbai.
    Focused on neo-retro styling, Kawasaki Z650RS has a classy feel to it. There aren’t any unnecessary flashy bits and yet the bike stands out just by the sheer brilliance of its timeless retro design. Some key features include round headlamp, retro themed instrument pods, circular mirrors and tear-drop shaped fuel tank.
    Other key features include single piece saddle, wire-spoke styled alloy wheels, and underbelly exhaust. A number of components such as engine, frame, and swingarm are blacked-out for a sportier look and feel.
    New Kawasaki Z650RS for India
    In international markets, Kawasaki Z650RS is available in colour options of Metallic Spark Black, Metallic Moondust Grey/Ebony and Candy Emerald Green. The green variant gets golden alloy wheels, making it the quintessential head turner on the streets. In India, it is offered only in 2 colour options of Candy Emerald Green and Metallic Moondust Gray.
    In terms of ergonomics, the bike has a comfortable, upright riding stance. Footpegs are centrally located and handlebar is ergonomically placed at just the right height. The compact fuel tank ensures that the rider’s legs can easily slide by its sides.
    Kawasaki Z650RS India Launch
    Powering the bike is a 649cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled motor. It is capable of generating 67.3 bhp of max power at 8,000 rpm and 64 Nm of peak torque at 6,700 rpm. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox. The bike is equipped with advanced tech such as assist and slipper clutch. It helps ensure smooth downshifts and reduces the effort required for level pulls. The bike’s under-engine muffler works to improve the bike’s performance by lowering the centre of gravity.
    Kawasaki Z650RS utilizes a Trellis frame made from high tensile steel. It has standard telescopic forks at front and monoshock rear suspension. Braking duties are performed by 300mm discs with two-piston callipers at front and single 220mm disc at rear. Dual-channel ABS is offered as standard. More

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    Upcoming Kawasaki 650cc Classic Roadster Spied Testing In Mumbai

    Upcoming Kawasaki 650cc Classic Roadster – Z650 RS spied in MumbaiUpon its launch, Kawasaki is expected to price Z650 RS under Rs 7.00 lakh (ex-showroom)
    Kawasaki recently unveiled its new 650cc retro motorcycle based on its famed naked streetfighter Z650. The motorcycle made its global debut last month and will soon be heading towards Indian shores. In fact, the Japanese superbike brand has already started testing the upcoming motorcycle on Indian roads.
    Latest spy shots are credit to automotive enthusiast Aniket Deshpande, who spotted the Upcoming Kawasaki 650cc Classic Roadster on the Palm Beach road in Navi Mumbai. Aniket says that the test mule was performing high speed runs on the road. He only managed to click the photos when the rider had to halt at a traffic signal.
    Upcoming Kawasaki 650cc – New Retro-Style Design
    The classic roadster is expected to be launched in our country by the end of this year. As mentioned previously, the design of Z650 RS is heavily inspired by its larger sibling Z900 RS. Interestingly, the test mule spotted has been wrapped under camouflage.
    The styling of the testing prototype is in tune with the international-spec model which made its debut recently barring a small addition. The India-spec mule was seen with an odd-looking pillion grab rail at the tail section. Rest of the details are identical with retro-inspired highlights such as a round LED headlamp, twin-pod instrument cluster, teardrop-shaped fuel tank, a flat single-piece saddle and circular rearview mirrors.
    Upcoming Kawasaki 650cc Classic Roadster – Z650 RS spied in Mumbai
    Other styling highlights such as multi-spoke alloy wheels and underbelly exhaust have been carried forward from its naked street racer sibling. The blacked-out components of side panels, engine, gearbox and alloys give Z650RS a sporty appeal. Chrome embellishments around headlamps, exhaust pipe, front forks and instrument console give it a premium look.
    Overall, Z650 RS sports a neo-retro design with styling inspired by classic motorcycles of yesteryears but with a modern touch. The international model is available with three colour options namely Candy Emerald Green, Metallic Moondust Grey/Ebony and Metallic Spark Black. We can expect these paint schemes to be on offer in India as well.
    Features & Specs
    In terms of features, Z650 RS gets full LED lighting along with a semi-digital instrument console and ride modes probably. It will borrow its underpinnings from other 650cc models from Kawasaki’s lineup such as Z650 and Ninja 650. This means Z650 RS will be based on a trellis frame which is suspended on 41mm front telescopic forks and a horizontal backlink rear preload-adjustable mono-shock.
    Upcoming Kawasaki 650cc Classic Roadster – Z650 RS spied in Mumbai
    Braking duties will be handled by twin 300mm discs up front and a single 220mm disc at the rear. This setup is aided by a dual-channel ABS. Powering Z650 RS is a familiar 649cc parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine that dishes out 67.3 bhp at 8,000rpm and peak torque of 64 Nm at 6,700rpm. This unit is coupled with a 6-speed gearbox which comes with a slipper and assist clutch.
    Z650 RS is expected to be priced anything between Rs 6.50 – 7.0 lakh (ex-showroom). Upon its launch, Z650 RS will not have a direct rival in the segment, in the segment. Royal Enfield 650 Twins could be considered as rivals by some, but they are priced in the Rs 3.5 lakh range. More

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    Kawasaki Ninja 400 Based Hybrid Electric Motorcycle Prototype Unveiled

    Kawasaki Ninja 400 Based Hybrid Electric Motorcycle PrototypeKawasaki is working on a wide range of fully electric and hybrid motorcycles for the next few years
    Kawasaki has made some major announcements recently which reveals the intentions of the Japanese superbike manufacturer for the future. The bikemaker has revealed that by 2035, all its models would run on electrified powertrains- either fully electric or hybrid electric vehicles, in major international markets.
    In regard to this idea, the company is planning to launch ten new fully electric and hybrid motorcycles by 2025. The first of them was recently showcased at a presentation meeting in Japan. The prototype revealed is slated to be the first hybrid electric motorcycle from Kawasaki.
    However, this isn’t the first motorcycle with an electric powertrain to be unveiled by the Japanese brand. Earlier in 2019, Kawasaki had revealed the electric Ninja 300 Concept, called EV Endeavor. Later the same year, the company filed patents for a hybrid motorcycle, images of which floated on the internet. The recent prototype unveiled is expected to be based on the same patents.
    Kawasaki Ninja 400 Hybrid Prototype – Details
    Going by the images, Kawasaki appears to have used Ninja 400 as the base for the exposed prototype of the hybrid bike. It features a parallel-twin engine which is bolted onto a new tubular steel frame with a large electric motor mounted above the transmission. The electric motor derives its energy from a small 48V battery pack located under the seat.
    Kawasaki Ninja 400 Based Hybrid Electric Motorcycle Prototype
    As per Kawasaki, the hybrid powertrain is equipped with a regenerative feature that tops up the battery when low on charge. Another interesting aspect of this hybrid motorcycle is that within city limits, the bike would completely run on battery and electric motor, cutting out power from the combustion engine. This mode will be useful when some cities introduce zero emissions zones in the future.
    Automated Transmission
    The bikemaker has equipped the prototype with GPS technology that automatically switches to electric power as soon as the bike enters city limits. Outside the city limits, the motorcycle will draw energy from both the combustion engine and electric motor in order to boost its performance. The entire system is paired with an automated transmission system with buttons for gear shifts.
    The setup comprises an automated clutch and a servo-operated shifter that enables gear shifts through push button changes. Other details revealed from the images include a pair of telescopic front forks and rear mono-shock supporting the tubular steel frame. Stopping power is provided by single disc brakes on both wheels while being linked to dual-channel ABS.
    Kawasaki Electric Motorcycle Prototype
    Although no exact timeline for its launch has been confirmed, we won’t be surprised if this motorcycle reaches production within a span of a year. That said, Kawasaki is not likely to bring this hybrid motorcycle to India since hybrid vehicles are not considered as electric vehicles in the country hence do not enjoy the same benefits under the FAME II policies. More