Kawasaki

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

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

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

2022 Kawasaki Z125Due to pricing issues and market dynamics, Kawasaki Z125 and Ninja 125 are unlikely to be launched in India
As part of its strategy to continually refresh its portfolio, Kawasaki has introduced updated colour options for Ninja 125 and Z125 2022 model. In the Indian market, Kawasaki Z range currently comprises Z650, Z900, Z H2 and Z H2 SE.
Kawasaki 125cc Range – 2022 updated colour options
A total of three colour options are available for Z125. One of these is Metallic Flat Spark Black / Pearl Flat Stardust White, which has been replaced with Pearl Flat Stardust White / Metallic Spark Black on the 2022 model.
The only major difference is that the quantum of white paint has been reduced. It is now limited to the top section of the fuel tank, a small portion of tank shrouds and front fender. 2022 Z125 also gets updated graphics. These changes have ensured a refined look and feel for the bike.
Another colour option is Metallic Flat Spark Black / Metallic Spark Black, which has been replaced with Metallic Flat Spark Black. The latter ditches the visual anomalies present on 2021 model due to its dual shades of black. The new colour theme brings the bike close to an all-black look and feel. Graphics have also been updated, just like other new colour themes.
2022 Kawasaki Z125
Refinements have also been introduced for the third colour option of Candy Lime Green / Metallic Spark Black. In 2022 model, lime green shade has been reduced significantly. It is largely limited to the headlamp cowl and front fender. In 2021 model, the lime green shade extends to the fuel tank and tank shrouds. The green bits have been replaced with black and light grey shades on 2022 model.
Colour options on offer with the Ninja 125 are similar to Z125. These are Lime green/ebony/pearl blizzard white, Metallic spark black/metallic flat spark black, Pearl flat stardust white/metallic spark black. Ninja 125 also gets the Kawasaki Racing Team (KRT) colour scheme.
Kawasaki 125cc 2022 engine and specs
Engine and other hardware are the same as earlier for 2022. The bikes are powered by a 125cc, liquid cooled, DOHC, 4-valve motor. It is capable of generating 15 PS of max power at 10,000 rpm and 11.7 Nm of peak torque at 7,700 rpm. As per A1 driving license rules applicable in Europe, Z125 power and torque are at their max permissible limit. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.
2022 Kawasaki Ninja 125
Kawasaki Z125 utilizes a tubular diamond steel frame with telescopic front forks and gas-charged rear shock with adjustable preload. Braking duties are performed by 290 mm and 220 mm single petal disc at front and rear, respectively. At both ends, the bike has dual piston calliper. ABS is offered as standard.
In European markets, Z125 standard variant is priced at €4,399 (approx. Rs 3.80 lakh). The SE variant costs €4,499, which is around Rs 3.87 lakh. As of now, it doesn’t seem like Kawasaki is making any plans to bring Z125 to India. But in case it makes it to our shores, it will primarily rival the likes of KTM 125 Duke. The latter retails at a starting price of Rs 1.71 lakh. More

New Kawasaki Z650RSWhile the design of Z650RS will be based on the new-retro Z900RS, its underpinnings and powertrain will be based on other 650cc motorcycles from Kawasaki
Earlier last month, Kawasaki teased a retro-classic derivative of Z650 called Z650RS on social media . It has now made its official debut. It will be launched in India later this year.
Unlike Z900RS which will likely be offered as a Completely Built Unit (CBU) in India, Z650RS is expected to reach our shores via the CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route. This will allow the new New Kawasaki 650cc Retro Classic motorcycle to be priced aggressively at around Rs. 7.00 lakh (ex-showroom).
Design & Proportions
In terms of design, it borrows major styling cues from its larger sibling Z900RS with a similar round headlight, circular rear-view mirrors, a flat-type seat with a ribbed pattern, a teardrop-shaped fuel tank and an upswept exhaust. In comparison to its sister model- Z650, the Z650RS gets a slightly shorter wheelbase of 1405mm down by 5mm. This could be due to a revised swingarm and suspension setup offered by Kawasaki.
However, overall the Z650RS is slightly longer when compared to its street naked sibling (by 10mm) thanks to a longer tail section. Also, height has gone up from 1065mm to 1115mm due to a significantly taller and wider handlebar. Ergonomics are expected to be upright and comfortable for both touring and commuting purposes. Kerb weight of Z650RS has been pegged at 187 kgs which is 1 kg lighter than its naked streetfighter counterpart.
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Hardware Configurations
Some changes might be made to the dynamics of Z650RS with slight tweaks to the suspension setup and wheels. Further, a distinction between Z650 and Z650RS will be laid by offering new paint schemes to the latter.
Suspension duties on the motorcycle will be handled by 41mm telescopic forks upfront and a horizontal back-link unit with adjustable preload at rear. Braking hardware will consist of disc brakes at both front and rear wheels accompanied by dual-channel ABS as standard.
Engine Specs
It will be based on the same 650 cc platform comprising a tubular steel frame underpinning other Kawasaki siblings such as Z650, Ninja 650, Versys 650 and Vulcan S. It is powered by the same 649 cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin motor which delivers 67.3 bhp at 8000 rpm and 64 Nm at 6700 rpm. This unit will be paired with a 6-speed gearbox. As per the type approval documents leaked earlier last month, the motorcycle has a claimed top speed of 191 kmph.
New Kawasaki Z650RS
Upon its launch, Z650RS will be the second retro-style motorcycle from Kawasaki after W800. The former being a neo-retro offering with modern elements while the latter is a proper retro motorcycle. In India, it will give a tough competition to Triumph Bonneville. However, both bikes are nowhere near Royal Enfield 650 cc Twins- Interceptor and Continental, as far as pricing is concerned. More

New Kawasaki KX450Kawasaki also offers its entry-level motocross in the form of KX100 in India which is priced at Rs 4.87 lakh (ex-showroom)
Kawasaki has launched the latest iterations of its adventure twins- KX250 and KX450 in India at a price of Rs. 7.99 lakh and Rs. 8.59 lakh respectively (both prices ex-showroom). Both motorcycles are meant for hardcore off-roading and could be classified as proper dirt bikes. These are not road-legal motorcycles.
Bookings for the new KX250 and KX450 are open at all Kawasaki dealerships across the country. Starting with their design, both KX250 and KX450 are very similar in their styling barring a few minor variations. Underpinning the dirt bikes is a revised lightweight aluminium frame that is claimed to improve dynamics of the motorcycles.
Updated Styling, Ergoomics
Design of the motorcycles hasn’t been tinkered with, however, ergonomics on both bikes have been improved. This involves a redesigned fuel tank, a flatter tank seat and slimmer shrouds.
The Japanese bikemaker has fitted the dirt bikes with an ERGO FIT adjustable handlebar while footpegs have also been repositioned. Further, the handlebar on both bikes has been equipped with a Renthal aluminium Fatbar as a standard feature to counter vibrations.
New Kawasaki KX250
Revised Hardware Configuration
Handling of the bike has been improved too with a retuned race-ready suspension setup comprising 49mm inverted telescopic forks at front and a new Unit Trak unit at rear. Both units are adjustable for compression and rebound damping. For KW250, the suspension travel is pegged at 314mm and 316mm front and rear respectively.
For K450, the figures stand at 305mm and 307mm for front and rear respectively. Braking hardware consists of single disc brakes with 270mm rotor and twin-piston calipers at front and 250mm rotor and a single-piston caliper at rear. KX250 weighs 107 kilos while KX450 tips the weighing scales at 110kg.
Retuned powertrain
Significant updates have been made to the powertrain for improved performance. KX250 is powered by a 249cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine with factory-racer tuning. While exact output figures haven’t been shared, peak power output has been increased by 1.4 PS.
New Kawasaki KX450
This has been achieved by Revised processing for the throats of intake and exhaust manifolds. Also, crankcase has been redesigned to reduce weight which has impacted performance.
A similar set of updates has also been made on the 449cc single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine powering KX450. Both powertrains are paired with a 5-speed gearbox. This is the first time that Kawasaki is offering a hydraulic clutch on its motocrosser range.
More importantly, both motorcycles are offered with an electric start previously not offered. There is nothing much on offer as creature comforts since these bikes are built for a different purpose. Both bikes, however, receive a launch control mode. More

New Kawasaki Ninja 650 For India
In India, 2022 Kawasaki Ninja 650 will compete against Honda CBR650R and the upcoming Aprilia RS 660
Kawasaki has launched the MY2022 Ninja 650 in India at an introductory price of Rs 6.61 lakh (ex-showroom). The updated model made its global debut a couple of months ago has received a bunch of new changes including new paint schemes, improved mechanicals and a sharper design.
Interested buyers can book the updated Ninja 650 at the nearest Kawasaki dealership or via the company’s official India website. The middleweight supersport motorcycle continues to sport an aggressive exterior design that gets accentuated with two colour options on offer- the traditional Lime Green and a new Pearl Robotic White.
Updated Styling
Design-wise, the updated 2022 Ninja 650 is largely similar to the outgoing model. It retains ZX-6R-like sharp fascia which appears to be aerodynamically enhanced. The bike’s front end is dominated by twin LED headlights with LED DRLs.
Additionally, Ninja 650 gets a new and improved windshield which is now lower and flush-fits with the upper cowl. It is set at a more upright angle to offer the rider decent wind protection.
New Kawasaki Ninja 650 For India
In both paint schemes, the engine cowl and belly pan are painted in white. The TFT colour instrument cluster is carried over from the previous model and now gets Bluetooth connectivity as standard. The console could be paired with the rider’s smartphone using the Rideology smartphone app. The blacked-out alloy spoke alloy wheels get green rims which add a nice sporty contrast.
The side turn indicators are integrated onto the front fairing whereas the side body panels feature a neat air scoop for more aerodynamic efficacy. Other styling highlights include a split-seat style, underbelly exhaust, front apron-mounted rearview mirrors, an aggressive fuel tank, and a clip-on handlebar along with rear-set footpegs which offer a committed riding posture.
Mechanical Specs
At the heart of the fully-faired motorcycle is the same 649cc Liquid-cooled, Parallel-Twin engine that delivers 67 bhp at 8,000rpm and 64 Nm of peak torque at 6,700 rpm. This unit is paired with a 6-speed gearbox. Team Green continues to employ a steel trellis frame supported by a 41mm telescopic fork at front and a preload-adjustable horizontal back-link mono-shock at rear.
Braking hardware comprises a pair of 300mm petal discs chewed by 2-piston calipers up front and a 220mm disc at rear. The middleweight supersport rolls on 17-inch alloys which are shod by new Dunlop Sportmax Roadsport 2 tyres. In India, 2022 Kawasaki Ninja 650 will go head to head against the upcoming Aprilia RS 660 and Honda CBR650R. More