Kawasaki bikes in India (33)

The Kawasaki Ninja 500 - while priced very high for what it is - is a sweet, capable and in true Japanese fashion. It is a machine that is likely to be reliable and last you for years without giving significant issues, provided you maintain it correctly. 

You could also take a look at the Yamaha R3, although most dealers we have spoken to in major metro cities have informed us that they don't have any stock, nor are they expecting a new shipment anytime soon. 

Its best to speak to your nearest authorised Yamaha dealer and see what the situation in your area is like. The R3 is a rather simple machine with no frilly features. But it packs a potent engine and chassis, and it has also cemented its reputation for reliability in our market. 

The Kawasaki Z650 and Ninja 650 are the only reliable big bike options below the 10 lakh rupee mark from a reputed make. Also, you'll have to considerably extend your budget for anything else. Should you be able to do so, bikes like the Suzuki GSX-8R and Honda CB750 Hornet will be the next stepping stones. 

Try to take a test ride of these machines to see which one suits you best before you make a decision. 

Between the three options you've considered, we'd advise picking between the Kawasaki Versys 1100 and the BMW R 1300 GS Adventure. These are powerful, comfortable, refined long-distance touring machines which will serve you well, although neither is going to be affordable to maintain. 

The BMW S 1000 XR is a sportbike on stilts, and the 1000cc four-cylinder engine from BMW isn't the smoothest motor, so we'd advise you to look elsewhere. 

If you're open to looking outside the ADV bike spectrum, the Ninja 1100SX makes a solid case as a road-going touring bike as long as you're mindful of the ground clearance over bad roads. 

And if you're not hung up on having a '1000cc+' bike only, the Honda XL750 Transalp is a wonderful road-touring machine. It is friendly, approachable, refined and will be by far the most affordable to buy (even if you put the Africa Twin's tubeless rims, extra luggage and protective accessories) and maintain of the lot. 

Try to take test rides of all the bikes listed here before making a decision. 

Since you own a KTM 390 Duke and have spoken about its performance, we'll put that parameter at the forefront when recommending some options. The Kawasaki Z650, while a quick, light and premium machine, can feel a little dull if you're stepping up from the fast KTM. While the Honda CB / CBR 650 models are now knocking on the door of 100hp, they are also quite heavy machines, and the engine is rather peaky, which means that you'll really have to work for the performance. 

In the Honda lineup, we suggest you look at the CB750 Hornet, as that is a punchy and lightweight machine that will feel like a good step up from the 390 Duke. 

You can also take a look at the Suzuki GSX-8R because even though its spec sheet is quite modest, in the real world, this is a very fun machine that doesn't sacrifice practicality too much. Another option in the same segment is the Triumph Daytona 660, which is also a relaxed, real-world usable sportbike with engaging performance. 

If you want to break the 100hp barrier well and truly, bikes like the Triumph Street Triple R and Kawasaki Z900 are the most affordable options. The former is an accomplished track machine, while the latter will be a sublime road bike owing to its creamy smooth engine and plush suspension.

We recommend a thorough test ride of all bikes before you choose to go ahead. 

If you want a retro-looking motorcycle, look no further than the Royal Enfield Interceptor 650. With its old-school looks, smooth yet punchy engine, reasonable comfort and relatively affordable price tag, it is an option that warrants serious consideration. 

Since you already have a Honda, you can take a look at the NX500, which will be a good option with its refined twin-cylinder engine and comfortable long-distance capability. 

If you are open to the idea of a pre-owned machine, in your budget, you can get a Kawasaki Z650 / Ninja 650 / Versys 650. All three are good both in the city and out on the highway, but the Versys would be our pick because it will be the most adept at tackling Indian roads.

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.

The only option in this price bracket currently is the Kawasaki Versys-X 300, which we have found to be quite average and rather dated in our time with it. We would recommend waiting for options like the CFMoto 450 MT, Royal Enfield Himalayan 750 and the upcoming Norton adventure bike, which will be made in India by TVS. 

If you want a bike right now in this segment, your options are restricted to the RE Himalayan 450 and the KTM 390 Adventure models.