All Kawasaki Ninja Bikes Explained Thoroughly: Your Ultimate Guide

Kawasaki is undoubtedly one of the most iconic and best-selling sports bike brands in the Indian market. Riders across the nation are attracted by the signature green that Kawasaki sports motorcycles proudly wear. It is the hue that has become a symbol of adrenaline, power and engineering excellence. Motorcyclists can never resist the magnetic aura of a shiny new Kawasaki in the garage. It’s not just a motorcycle; it’s a lifestyle.

Among Kawasaki’s diverse lineup, spanning the Z, Versys, Vulcan, Eliminator, W, KX and KLX categories, one family always stands out like the emperor: the Ninja series. Where do we even begin with the Ninjas?

The Ninja lineup is more than just a collection of motorcycles, it’s a legacy. A symphony of speed and acceleration. Each bike is engineered for an ultimate riding experience. Whether you're a beginner stepping into the world of sports biking, a seasoned professional chasing track records or a hyper rider pushing limits on every twist and turn, there’s a Ninja for you.

From the entry-level models that welcome newbies with open arms to the brutally hyper sport machines like the Ninja H2R that are crafted to conquer the unthinkable, Every rev of the engine is a call to adventure.

Owning a Kawasaki, especially a Ninja, is not just about riding a motorcycle. It’s about flaunting the green legacy, living a dream and becoming a part of an elite tribe of riders who dare to defy the ordinary and who think that green is the real gold. So, the next time you see that iconic Kawasaki green, remember. it’s not just a colour. It’s an obsession. 

The confusing Kawasaki Ninja lineup

Kawasaki's Ninja lineup is a powerhouse of performance motorcycles divided into three categories: the Ninja Number series, the Ninja ZX series and the Ninja H2 series.

Each category targets different riding styles and purposes, offering unique features that appeal to a variety of riders. For example, the Ninja Number series includes entry-level motorcycles like the Ninja 300 while the Ninja ZX and Ninja H2 series focus exclusively on high-performance sports bikes.

The 'numbered' Ninjas

The Ninja number series is the most diverse category in Kawasaki’s lineup. It ranges from entry-level motorcycles like the Ninja 300 to the latest and more advanced Ninja 1100 SX. Contrary to popular belief, the number series is not limited to twin-cylinder motorcycles. While models like the Ninja 300 and Ninja 650 feature parallel-twin engines, bikes like the discontinued Ninja 1000 SX and the newly launched Ninja 1100 SX were powered with powerful inline-four engines.

What sets the Ninja number series apart is its focus on sport-touring. These bikes combine a sporty, fully faired design with a slightly upright seating posture, making them ideal for long-distance rides as well as daily commutes. This balance of performance and comfort makes the number series a versatile choice for riders seeking a blend of sporty aesthetics and practicality.

1) Kawasaki Ninja 300

The Ninja 300 is based on the Tubular Diamond steel chassis frame. The motorcycle is powered by Kawasaki’s smallest dual-cylinder 296cc engine designed for performance and comfortable riding qualities. It produces 39 PS of max power and 26.1 Nm of peak torque and is paired with a six-speed gearbox.

The front and rear tyres of the Ninja 300 are 17 inches but the rear tyre is broader than the front one. This motorcycle has 140mm ground clearance and a 780mm seat height. The motorcycle features an Assist and Slipper Clutch, ABS system and a 17-litre fuel tank capacity.

Ninja 300 ex-showroom price: INR 3.43 lakhs

2) Kawasaki Ninja 500

This is the only Ninja in the number series which comes only in an all-black colour scheme. Even the logo on this motorcycle is in grey colour with a green line below the Ninja logo. The motorcycle is powered by a 451cc twin-cylinder engine. It generates 45.4 PS of maximum power and 42.6 Nm of peak torque, paired with six-speed gear technology.

It is based on a Trellis, high-tensile steel chassis which makes it different from the entry-level Ninja 300 even in terms of durability and internal DNA. It runs on 110/70 R17 front and 150/60 R17 rear tyres. The ground clearance is 145mm with a 785mm seat height.

The fuel tank capacity of the Ninja 500 is 14 litres. On the front, it has a telescopic fork and on the rear, it features Uni-Trak gas-charged suspension.

Ninja 500 ex-showroom price: INR 5.24 lakhs

3) Kawasaki Ninja 650

For this one, Kawasaki has installed a 649cc dual-cylinder engine on a Trellis, high-tensile steel chassis. On the front, it has a 120/70 Z R17 tyre and on the rear, it has a 160/60 ZR 17 unit. The wheel size is technically similar but the rear tyre is way broader than the front one.

The Ninja 650 is equipped with a TFT instrument cluster. The ground clearance of the machine is 130mm with a 790mm seat height and it comes with a 15-liter fuel tank.

The size of the front disc brake is 300mm and the rear disc brake is 200mm. The Ninja 650 is loaded with KTRC (Kawasaki Traction Control), dual throttle valves and the Assist, ABS and Slipper Clutch.

Ninja 650 ex-showroom price: INR 7.16 lakh

4) Kawasaki Ninja 1100SX

The Ninja 1000 was discontinued from the list and the Ninja 1100SX was introduced recently to fill this gap. This motorcycle, however, comes with a similar design. All the Ninja Number series models come with sport-touring capability but the Ninja 1100SX is the most powerful one.

It is built on a Twin-Tube aluminium chassis and is powered by an inline-four 1099cc engine that generates 136 PS max power and 113 Nm peak torque. It is paired with a six-speed gearbox.

The Ninja 1100SX comes with a 120/70 Z R17 tyre on the front and a 190/50 Z R17 tyre on the rear. It has a massive 19-litre fuel tank capacity, 135mm ground clearance and 820mm seat height. This motorcycle comes in Metallic Diablo Black, a combination of black and grey colour.

The Ninja 1100SX features KCMF (Kawasaki Cornering Management Function) to monitor the engine, a quick shifter, cruise control and ABS.

Ninja 1100SX ex-showroom price: INR 13.49 lakhs

Ninja ZX Series

The Ninja ZX series takes performance to the next level with a focus on track-ready machines. These motorcycles are equipped exclusively with inline-four engines, offering exceptional power and acceleration. The aggressive, forward-leaning riding posture is designed for aerodynamics and optimal control on the racetrack.

ZX models, such as the Ninja ZX-6R and ZX-10R, prioritise precision and handling, making them the go-to choice for riders who thrive in high-speed environments. Unlike the number series, the ZX lineup does not aim for comfort or versatility but instead zeroes in on delivering uncompromising track performance.

1) Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4R

The Ninja ZX-4R is the most compact model in the Ninja ZX lineup to feature an inline-four engine. Designed as a true track-focused machine, it boasts a sleek black colour scheme that enhances its aggressive and sporty demeanour.

This bike is powered by a high-revving 400cc inline-four engine, delivering an impressive 77 PS of maximum power, 80 PS of maximum power with RAM air and 39 Nm of peak torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed transmission, ensuring seamless gear shifts and optimal performance during high-speed riding or tight cornering.

Built on a Trellis, high-tensile steel frame, the ZX-4R offers exceptional rigidity and lightweight handling, ideal for track performance. The bike features a ground clearance of 135mm and a seat height of 800mm, providing a balanced stance suitable for spirited rides.

In terms of technology, the Ninja ZX-4R is packed with advanced rider aids, including three selectable traction control modes to suit different conditions, an Assist and Slipper Clutch for smoother downshifts and ABS for enhanced braking confidence.

With its powerful engine, race-oriented design and state-of-the-art electronics, the Ninja ZX-4R is an exceptional choice for riders seeking a compact supersport experience that doesn’t compromise on performance or thrill.

Ninja ZX-4R Ex-showroom price: INR 8.49 lakh

2) Ninja ZX-4RR

The Ninja ZX-4RR is based on the Ninja ZX-4R version but the RR, or Race Replica model, is slightly more powerful than the ZX-4R. The Ninja ZX-4RR produces 39 Nm of peak torque, which is 1.4 Nm more than the Ninja ZX-4R and has the same power as the Ninja ZX-4RR.

This motorcycle is also based on a Trellis high-tensile steel frame. The ground clearance of the motorcycle is 135mm with 800mm seat height. Additionally, it comes with a 15-litre fuel tank.

Kawasaki has equipped the motorcycle with an Assist and Slipper Clutch, quick shifter, traction control, power modes and ABS, making it a well-rounded package for both performance and rider safety.

Ninja ZX-4RR ex-showroom price: INR 9.42 lakh

3) Ninja ZX-6R

The Ninja ZX-6R is powered by a 636cc four-stroke inline-four engine. It produces 124 PS max power under normal conditions and 129 PS max power with RAM air, along with 69 Nm peak torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox.

The Ninja ZX-6R features a perimeter aluminium chassis, offering a strong and stable structure. The ground clearance of the motorcycle is 130mm with an 830mm high seat. The fuel tank capacity is 17 litres.

The bike is equipped with a 120/70 ZR17 tyre on the front and a 180/55 ZR17 tyre on the rear. It also comes with an Assist and Slipper Clutch, quick shifter and ABS.

Ninja ZX-6R ex-showroom price: INR 11.20 lakh

4) Ninja ZX-10R

This motorcycle is currently trending in India. The Ninja ZX-10R features an aerodynamic body structure, LED headlights and a TFT instrument cluster with smartphone connectivity.

The Ninja ZX-10R is based on a twin-spar cast aluminium chassis which helps maintain the motorcycle’s kerb weight at just 207 kg. It has a ground clearance of 135mm, an 835mm seat height and a 17-liter fuel tank.

The motorcycle is powered by an inline-four 998cc engine that produces 203 PS of max power, which increases to 213 PS with RAM air technology and 114.9 Nm peak torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed gearbox.

Ninja ZX-10R ex-showroom price: INR 16.79 lakh

Ninja H2 Series

The Ninja H2 series represents the pinnacle of Kawasaki’s engineering. These motorcycles are equipped with supercharged inline-four engines, making them the most powerful bikes in the Ninja lineup. The H2 series is designed to dominate in terms of sheer speed and performance with cutting-edge aerodynamics and advanced technology.

From the street-legal Ninja H2 to the track-only Ninja H2R, this lineup caters to thrill-seekers who demand unparalleled power and exclusivity. The H2 series motorcycles are not just fast! They are a chapter of innovation that showcases Kawasaki’s expertise in pushing the boundaries of motorcycle engineering.

1) Ninja H2 SX SE

This motorcycle is one of the most powerful sports bikes available in India. It is built on a Trellis high-tensile steel frame with a swingarm mounting plate. The motorcycle is powered by Kawasaki’s liquid-cooled, four-stroke inline-four 998cc engine paired with a six-speed gearbox. It generates a whopping 200 PS of peak power, increasing to 210 PS with RAM air and 137 Nm of peak torque.

The Ninja H2 SX SE is loaded with cruise control, an Assist and Slipper Clutch, engine brake control, a quick shifter, a cornering management system and ABS technology.

Ninja H2 SX SE ex-showroom price: INR 32,95,000

2) Ninja H2 SX

This is one of the most advanced sports tourers currently available in India. It is integrated with a new 6.5-inch TFT instrument cluster, which Kawasaki calls the SPIN infotainment system. The Ninja H2 SX is built on a Trellis high-tensile steel frame with a swingarm mounting plate chassis. It is powered by a 998cc inline-four supercharged engine with 16 valves, producing 200 PS of peak power and 210 PS max power with RAM air, along with 137.3 Nm peak torque.

The ground clearance of the motorcycle is 130mm with an 835mm seat height and a 19-liter fuel tank.

In terms of features, the Ninja H2 SX is equipped with cornering lights, smartphone connectivity, an Intelligent Proximity Activation Start System, launch control mode, an Assist and Slipper Clutch and ABS.

Ninja H2 SX ex-showroom price: INR 31,95,000

Conclusion

The Ninja family may seem confusing at first but Kawasaki has categorised its motorcycles in an attractive and useful manner, catering to different types of riders and their preferences.