By Taaza Wire Auto Desk | May 22, 2025
After the long break, Kawasaki has re-launched the Kawasaki Versys-X 300 in India — this time at ₹3.80 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi). Dubbed as the “Baby Versys,” this mass-market adventure tourer now joins a more competitive ADV segment ruled by the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 and KTM 390 Adventure.
But does the Versys-X 300 pack enough punch to regain its position in the 300-500cc ADV category? Let’s take a closer look.
Table of Contents
Kawasaki Versys-X 300: What’s New in 2025?
The Versys-X 300 introduces a familiar but improved package to Indian adventure riders. It maintains its tough global styling and introduces two new colors — Candy Lime Green/Metallic Flat Spark Black and Pearl Horizon White — to entice tourers and daily commuters.
There may not be any radical cosmetic updates, but Kawasaki has been keen to make the bike light, responsive, and suitable for long-distance touring.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Versys-X 300 is a 296cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine — the same unit powering the Ninja 300. It delivers:
- Max Power: 38.5 bhp @ 11,500 rpm
- Max Torque: 26.1 Nm @ 10,000 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with assist & slipper clutch
This twin-cylinder setup ensures smooth, high-revving performance, especially for those who enjoy highway cruising and weekend getaways.
Hardware & Suspension
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Front Suspension | Conventional telescopic fork |
| Rear Suspension | Mono-shock |
| Brakes | Petal discs with dual-channel ABS |
| Wheels | 19-inch front & 17-inch rear wire-spoke wheels |
| Tyres | Tube-type |
While the spoke wheels give it an off-road-ready look, the lack of tubeless tyres may disappoint some riders who are used to more modern setups offered by the competition.
Dimensions & Build
- Kerb Weight: 184 kg
- Ground Clearance: 180 mm
- Seat Height: 815 mm
- Fuel Tank: 17 litres
With a tall windscreen, wide handlebars, and an upright riding posture, the Versys-X 300 is clearly built for comfort during long rides.
Features & Equipment: Where It Falls Short
This is where Kawasaki plays it safe — maybe too safe. The Versys-X 300 misses out on many modern features:
| Available | Missing |
|---|---|
| Semi-digital instrument cluster | Full digital TFT display |
| Halogen headlamp | LED lights |
| Dual-channel ABS | Cornering ABS / Traction Control |
| Slipper clutch | Ride modes, Bluetooth connectivity |
There’s no LED lighting, no smartphone integration, and most add-ons like fog lamps or panniers are not standard.
Competitors: KTM 390 Adventure & Himalayan 450
| Bike | Price (Ex-Showroom) | Engine | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kawasaki Versys-X 300 | ₹3.80 lakh | 296cc Twin | Basic, refined engine |
| KTM 390 Adventure | ₹3.68 lakh | 373cc Single | TFT, ride modes, traction control |
| Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 | ₹2.85 – ₹2.98 lakh | 452cc Single | TFT, tubeless spoked wheels, ride modes |
The Himalayan 450 and 390 Adventure offer more tech, better feature sets, and larger engines at lower prices — making the Versys-X 300 feel slightly under-equipped for its price
Kawasaki Versys-X 300: Pros & Cons
👍 Pros
- Smooth & refined twin-cylinder engine
- Excellent high-speed touring ability
- Upright and comfortable riding position
- Kawasaki reliability and build quality
👎 Cons
- Lacks modern features like LED lighting and ride modes
- Tube-type tyres on spoked wheels
- Priced higher than more capable rivals
- Limited service network compared to Royal Enfield
Verdict: Who Should Buy the Versys-X 300?
If you’re someone who values refined twin-cylinder performance, reliability, and long-distance touring comfort over modern electronics and flashy features — the Versys-X 300 may still be a solid choice.
However, for tech-savvy and feature-hungry buyers, the Himalayan 450 and 390 Adventure offer more bang for your buck in today’s competitive ADV space.
Final Thoughts
The return of the Kawasaki Versys-X 300 signals that the brand is paying attention to the booming entry-level ADV market in India. While its engine remains its strongest selling point, the lack of key features and a premium price tag could limit its mass appeal.
Still, for Kawasaki loyalists and those wanting a refined parallel-twin in the sub-₹4 lakh range — the Baby Versys is back, and it’s ready to roll.
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