Kawasaki Ninja 300, Yamaha R3, KTM RC 390 composite image

The Kawasaki Ninja 300 has received a facelift for 2025, featuring minor cosmetic updates. We have compared this enduring small-capacity sportbike against its competitors based on specifications and performance.

Kawasaki Ninja 300 vs Rivals: Engine & Output

Ninja and R3 Feature Peaky Twin-Cylinder Engines

Engine & Output
Kawasaki Ninja 300 Yamaha YZF-R3 KTM RC 390
Engine 296cc, twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled 321cc, twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled 373cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled
Power 39hp at 11,000rpm 42hp at 10,750rpm 43.5hp at 9,000rpm
Power-to-weight Ratio 217.88 hp per tonne 248.52 hp per tonne 252.91 hp per tonne
Torque 26.1Nm at 10,000rpm 29.5Nm at 9,000rpm 37Nm at 7,000rpm
Gearbox 6-speed 6-speed 6-speed

The Ninja 300 has the lowest peak power output due to its smaller engine, relying on high rpm for performance. This trend also applies to the Yamaha R3. The KTM RC 390 stands out with its single-cylinder engine that, while older, delivers the highest output among these bikes. The twin-cylinder engines of the Kawasaki and Yamaha provide a smoother ride with a more pleasant sound compared to the larger single-cylinder engine of the KTM.

Kawasaki Ninja 300 vs Rivals: Weight & Dimensions

R3 is the Lightest Bike with a Low Seat Height

Weight & Dimensions
Kawasaki Ninja 300 Yamaha YZF-R3 KTM RC 390
Kerb Weight 179kg 169kg 172kg
Seat Height 780mm 780mm 835mm
Ground Clearance 140mm 160mm 153mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 17 litres 14 litres 13.7 litres
Wheelbase 1405mm 1380mm 1347mm

The Ninja 300 is the heaviest bike in this comparison, weighing 10kg more than the Yamaha R3. While it features the largest fuel tank, the overall weight is not competitive with the other two motorcycles. Both Japanese models offer manageable seat heights, unlike the RC 390 with its taller 835mm seat. Additionally, the Ninja 300 has only 140mm of ground clearance, which requires caution while riding on uneven roads.

Kawasaki Ninja 300 vs Rivals: Suspension, Tyres & Brakes

The Ninja’s Componentry Shows Its Age

Suspension, Tyres & Brakes
Kawasaki Ninja 300 Yamaha YZF-R3 KTM RC 390
Suspension (F/R) Telescopic fork / Monoshock USD fork / Monoshock USD fork / Monoshock
Tyres (F/R) 110/70-17 / 140/70-17 110/70-17 / 140/70-17 110/70-17 / 150/60-17
Brakes (F/R) 290mm disc / 220mm disc 298mm disc / 220mm disc 320mm disc / 230mm disc

The Ninja 300, being over a decade old, reveals its age through its foundational components. Its basic steel diamond frame, conventional telescopic fork, and bias-ply tyres are indicators of its time in the market. In the hardware department, the RC 390 excels with its radially mounted front brake caliper, larger brake discs, and better adjustability in suspension compared to both the Yamaha and Kawasaki.

Kawasaki Ninja 300 vs Rivals: Features

KTM is the Most Feature-Rich Option

The KTM RC 390 surpasses the other models with its array of features, including a bidirectional quickshifter, color TFT display, traction control, and switchable ABS. The Yamaha R3 sold in India is an older generation than its international counterpart and lacks features like a slipper clutch. The Ninja 300, on the other hand, was recently updated with projector headlights and a taller visor but remains largely unchanged since its launch in 2013.

Kawasaki Ninja 300 vs Rivals: Price

RC 390 Offers the Best Value for Money

Price
Kawasaki Ninja 300 Yamaha YZF-R3 KTM RC 390
Price (ex-showroom, Delhi) Rs 3.43 lakh Rs 3.60 lakh Rs 3.23 lakh

The KTM RC 390 stands out as a great value for money, boasting a punchy engine and an extensive suite of electronics, paired with modern cycle parts. However, for those who prefer the twin-cylinder experience, the choice narrows down to either the Ninja or the R3. Additionally, the Aprilia RS 457, which features a similar engine configuration, enters the picture but at a price point of Rs 4.20 lakh and has raised concerns about engine reliability recently.

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