When it comes to the top 5 bikes between Rs 6 lakh and Rs 8 lakh based on power-to-weight ratio, one brand stands out – Kawasaki. In fact, every bike on this list is a Kawasaki, and each one is powered by the same parallel-twin engine, albeit in slightly different states of tune. What makes it interesting is how these variations, paired with different body styles, translate into some noticeably different power-to-weight figures.
Kawasaki Vulcan S (61hp/229kg) – 266.37hp/tonne
Kawasaki Vulcan S prices start at Rs 7.10 lakh
The Vulcan S is Kawasaki’s middleweight cruiser, offering laid-back riding ergonomics paired with that smooth twin-cylinder engine. It stands out in the brand’s 650cc family, as it is powered by an engine originally built for sportier bikes. In the Vulcan’s cruiser-focused setup, the 649cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine is tuned for mellower performance, producing 61hp and 62.4Nm, which also happens to be the least powerful version of this mill in the line-up.
Kawasaki Versys 650 (67hp/218kg) – 307.34hp/tonne
Kawasaki Versys 650 prices start at Rs 7.93 lakh
The Kawasaki Versys 650 is powered by the same 649cc parallel-twin engine, but it produces 67hp and 61Nm here. In terms of output, it’s on par with some of the higher-ranked bikes on this list, but its heavier kerb weight of 218kg pushes it lower down with regard to power-to-weight ratio. That said, unlike the Vulcan S, the Versys 650 offers more modern features, including a 4.3-inch TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity and traction control.
Kawasaki Ninja 650 (68hp/196kg) – 346.94hp/tonne
Kawasaki Ninja 650 prices start at Rs 7.27 lakh
The Ninja 650 is a familiar name in India and a long-time favourite among riders stepping into the middleweight sportbike category. With 68hp and 64Nm produced by the same 649cc parallel-twin, the Ninja delivers strong acceleration and engaging performance without being intimidating.
Kawasaki Z650RS (68hp/192kg) – 354.16hp/tonne
Kawasaki Z650RS prices start at Rs 7.2 lakh
The Kawasaki Z650RS uses the same parallel-twin engine as the Ninja 650 but is lighter at 192kg, which pushes it up to second place on this list. The manufacturer has done a commendable job with its modern-classic styling, drawing inspiration from Kawasakis of the past and paying close attention to finer details. Staying true to its retro character, the Z650RS features a beautifully executed analogue instrument cluster instead of the TFT unit seen on the standard Z650. Beyond that, most of the core elements remain unchanged, including the main frame and suspension setup.
Kawasaki Z650 (68hp/188kg) – 361.70hp/tonne
Kawasaki Z650 prices start at Rs 6.79 lakh
Topping this list is the Kawasaki Z650, the naked sibling of the Ninja 650 and the lightest of Kawasaki’s 650cc family. Thanks to a 188kg kerb weight, the Z650 boasts the best power-to-weight ratio in this price bracket. Agile, responsive and fun to ride, it’s a fantastic option for those who want an accessible yet engaging middleweight naked bike. Interestingly, it’s also the most affordable bike here.
Honourable mention:
Brixton Cromwell 1200 (83hp/235kg) – 353.19hp/tonne
Brixton Cromwell 1200 prices start at Rs 7.84 lakh
The Brixton Cromwell 1200 is powered by a 1,222cc parallel-twin engine producing 83hp and 108Nm of torque. Despite its hefty 235kg kerb weight, its power output means that it still achieves an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 353.19hp/tonne, which would slot it neatly between the Kawasaki Ninja 650 and Z650RS.
However, it makes the list only as an honourable mention, since Brixton is still a relatively new player in India with a very limited dealer and service network. For most buyers, this makes ownership less practical than the other bikes here.
