Kawasaki Ninja 300 Standard

The Kawasaki Ninja 300 is a thoroughly dated machine in all respects, but it has some unique strengths in today's market. If you like the baby Ninja, then it still makes sense to go for it, although we'd recommend paying full price and going for the latest model. Because the older ones won't be E20 compatible. Real-world fuel economy is subjective and depends on a multitude of factors. So we can't tell you what you should expect; for reference, you may check out our fuel efficiency numbers from when we road tested the Ninja 300. 

Coming to the TVS Apache RR 310, this is a more modern and feature-rich machine and will also be cheaper to buy and maintain in the long run. However, purchasing it without taking a test ride is an avoidable risk, and we'd recommend you try to get a test ride from TVS once more before you make a decision. 

The Kawasaki Ninja 500 is a great sportsbike at a very steep price, just like its predecessor, the Ninja 400. If you can stretch for the Ninja, it is a capable, refined, comfortable and reliable machine which will serve you well. Do bear in mind that Kawasaki spares and service have a reputation for being on the pricey side and that the company's dealer network is quite small across the country. 

The Aprilia RS 457 is a truly great sportsbike, but because of its focused nature, it won't be the best fit on broken city roads. Another aspect to consider is that the 457cc engine has been reported to have multiple reliability issues that keep recurring. So, we would recommend you not go with the RS.

The Honda CBR500R is not sold in India, so it shouldn't factor into your decision. 

The Kawasaki Ninja 300 is a machine that thoroughly feels its age today, but remains a unique offering in the class with its twin-cylinder engine. The single-cylinder TVS Apache RR 310 will feel quite dull to ride in comparison to these twin-cylinder machines. But it is also much more affordable and easier to maintain. 

Take a test ride to decide which bike is better for you. 

The Triumph Speed 400 is ideal for city riding needs, thanks to its smooth, tractable engine. It is lightweight, easily manageable in traffic, and also the most affordable option from this lot of motorcycles. The KTM 390 Duke offers more aggressive performance, sharper handling and has more features, but the ride quality is on the stiffer side to keep in tune with its sporty nature. 

The Kawasaki Ninja 300, the only twin-cylinder motorcycle on your list, has been around for a long time and hasn't received any modern updates. The cost of servicing and spare parts of Kawasaki is also on the higher side. We still suggest you take a test ride of all three bikes to see which one suits you best.

Among these two, the TVS Apache RR310 is the more modern and feature-packed motorcycle, making it more value for money. The Kawasaki Ninja 300 has not received any major updates in a long time and carries a higher price tag. The servicing and spare parts of Kawasaki will also be priced at a premium, so that is something to take into consideration. Two other bikes you can also check out are the KTM RC 390 and the Yamaha R3. Take test rides of all four bikes so you know which one suits you best.