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.
