The Japanese company’s latest offering in the sub-500cc supersport class is the Kawasaki Ninja 500. Since it is also a CBU import, it is priced at Rs 5.24 lakh, which is similar to the Ninja 400, which it replaces in the company’s Indian lineup.
On the other hand, the Ninja 500 has a larger 451cc engine at a similar price. It produces 42.6 Nm at 6,000 rpm and 45 horsepower at 9,000 rpm. Designed within a steel trellis frame, the engine is supported by a gas-charged mono-shock and a 41 mm telescopic fork. The feature list is quite respectable, with all LED lighting and LCD instrumentation along with Bluetooth connectivity.
Although the Ninja 500 looks like a promising motorcycle, the price is high. However, if you are looking to buy a twin-cylinder supersport bike in this market segment, then the following are the four other options for you.
Aprilia RS 457
When it comes to cost, Aprilia has a significant advantage over the Kawasaki bike due to the option to produce the RS 457 in India. It offers a better package than both the bikes, but at Rs 4.10 lakh, it is less expensive than the Ninja 500.
With 47.6 horsepower and 43.5 Nm, its 457cc parallel-twin engine is the most powerful in comparison. The Italian bike outperforms the Japanese bike by providing more features and equipment. In addition to Bluetooth connectivity, traction control, ride modes, and a color TFT display are included. Preload can be adjusted for both mono-shock and USD forks.
Yamaha R3
Most of us are big fans of the Yamaha bikes, so we put the second Japanese motorcycle on this list, R3. Despite its bold looks, the R3’s 321cc engine is undoubtedly the star of the show.
Its cubic capacity is smaller, and it produces 42 bhp and 29.5 Nm, which is less peak power and torque than the Ninja 500. That being said, this engine is a true gem that effortlessly combines refinement, fuel efficiency, and performance, making it appealing.
Its chassis consists of a diamond-shaped frame with a USD fork and a mono-shock. One of the advantages of the Yamaha R3 is its ride and handling, which we were happy with during our test trip in Thailand.
Finally, considering the budget, the features list could be more minimal, especially considering the direct LCD. Its Delhi ex-showroom price is Rs 4.64 lakh, which is expensive, but since it is an imported CBU, no one can resist it.
Kawasaki Ninja 400
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 is a sportbike with 399cc displacement and refined twin-cylinder power. It has accessible power, excellent ergonomics, and class-leading performance, making it suitable for beginners and experienced riders equally.
The Ninja 400 has a low seat height, aggressive appearance, and LED lighting, making it a good choice for motorcyclists looking to join the sport-riding scene. The engine produces 47.5bhp and 38 Nm of torque and is mated to a six-speed gearbox. It has telescopic forks at the front and a mono-shock at the rear, along with dual-channel ABS and disc brakes at both ends.
The Kawasaki Ninja 400 features a semi-digital instrument cluster and 17-inch wheels. It comes in metallic carbon gray and lime green colors. Also, despite being an older bike, the Ninja 400 is priced the same as the Ninja 500, which is Rs 5.19 lakh (ex-showroom).
KTM RC 390
The KTM RC 390 is a sports bike powered by a 373.27cc single-cylinder engine that produces 43.5 horsepower and 37 Nm of torque. It has a six-speed gearbox and is equipped with a host of features like full-LED lighting, color TFT display, switchable dual-channel ABS with cornering function, traction control, and quick shifter.
The RC 390 has a seat height of 820 mm and a curb weight of 172 kg. It is available in two color options: KTM Factory Racing Blue and KTM Electronic Orange. RC 390 is priced at Rs. Rs.3,63,298/-(ex-showroom).
Conclusion
All four of these supersport bikes are excellent in their own right, so the decision between them should be based on your preferences with regard to appearance, engine output, feature set, and brand uniqueness.
