Kawasaki Z300 Special Edition
The Kawasaki Z300 Special Edition with
minor cosmetic enhancements is a part of the brand’s comprehensive lineup of
exhibits at the2016 Bangkok Motor Show. The 300 cc sportsbike replaced
the twin-cylinder Z250 in most international markets but India is an exception.
Positioned above the entry level
single-cylinder Z250 SL, the Z300 caters to a segment which is showing
promising growth potential internationally. The special edition variant is
finished in black with contrasting red decals and alloy wheels. Rest of the
elements have not been fiddled with.
The motorcycle subscribes to the Z
family design language with a mean looking headlamp, sculpted fuel tank, short
tailpiece with split seats and meaty tyres. Riding position is upright in a
typical street fighter fashion.
The Kawasaki Z300 is powered by a
liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine displacing 296 cc. The power plant generates
30 PS at 11,000 rpm and 27 Nm of torque at 10,000 rpm. Transmission is a
6-speed unit.
Chassis is a steel tubular diamond-type
unit which is suspended by 37 mm telescopic front fork and Bottom-Link Uni-Trak
with gas charged shock absorber (with 5-step preload adjustment). Retardation
is provided by a 290 mm front disc and 220 mm rear disc, both with dual piston
calipers. Front and rear tyre specifications are 110/70 x 17 and 140/70 x 17
respectively.
The Kawasaki Z300 is pitted against the
likes of Honda CB300F, Yamaha MT-03, KTM Duke 390, etc. We expect the Z300 to
take the baton from aging Z250 in India eventually.
