Kawasaki has launched the 2023 ZX-10R superbike in the Indian market at Rs 15.99 lakh. While this makes it Rs 85,000 dearer than the outgoing model, it remains mechanically identical to it. 

• 2023 ZX-10R costs Rs 85,000 more previous model

• Gets two new colours options

• No mechanical changes over outgoing bike

2023 Kawasaki ZX-10R: what’s new?

There’s not much of a difference between the 2023 model and the outgoing one, with the former getting two new paint options – the traditional Kawasaki Lime Green and a new Pearl Robotic White. 

The rest of the bike remains mechanically identical, which is not a bad thing. The 998cc, inline-four liquid-cooled engine makes 203hp at 13,200rpm and 114.9Nm of torque at 11,400rpm. It gets a fully adjustable front fork and monoshock at the rear, both courtesy of Showa. Braking hardware comprises twin Brembo M50 calipers biting down upon dual 330mm discs at the front and a single-piston caliper biting down on a 220mm disc at the rear. 

A full suite of electronic rider aids are on offer, including cornering ABS, traction control, cruise control and four riding modes – Sport, Road, Rain and Rider (fully customisable). In addition to this, you can also pair your smartphone to the 4.3-inch TFT display through the Rideology app, which enables you to get notification alerts as well as turn-by-turn navigation. 

2023 Kawasaki ZX-10R: price and rivals

As mentioned before, the 2023 ZX-10R commands a price tag of Rs 15.99 lakh, which is Rs 85,000 more than the outgoing model (priced at Rs 15.14 lakh). It is also Rs 1 lakh dearer than the 2021 model and there’s not a whole lot that’s changed since then, making this price hike seem a bit too steep. Despite this, it significantly undercuts its competition, which comes in the form of the recently-updated Ducati Panigale V4, Honda CBR1000RR-R and the Aprilia RSV4.

*All prices, ex-showroom, Delhi

Would you pick the ZX-10R over the significantly more expensive competition? Let us know in the comments section below.