Kawasaki Z300 vs KTM 390 Duke: Detailed Comparison

Kawasaki recently launched the Z300 streetfighter in India at a price of Rs 3.24 lakh (ex-showroom). The bike is essentially a naked version of the fully-faired Ninja 300. It uses the same engine, frame, underpinnings and features as the faired bike. In India, it competes with KTM’s popular 390 Duke. Here is how detailed comparison between the two bikes look like: 

Engine 

• The Z300 also misses out on riding modes, which the KTM gets. Overall this should make the 390 Duke a bit more manageable for beginner riders.

• That said, the Kawasaki Z300’s engine should be a lot more smoother and refined than the KTM’s motor, due to its twin-cylinder construction. 

Underpinnings

• The Z300 gets a smaller front disc with a more conventional double piston caliper. The KTM, on the other hand, comes with a much larger front disc along with a four-piston  caliper and Brembo sintered brake pads. 

• In our testing we found out that the 390 Duke’s brakes are quite sharp and provide great stopping power.

• The 390 Duke uses W-rated Apollo Alpha H1 tyres which are praised for their brilliant feel, and grip. The Z300 comes with MRF Zappers which are good for city commutes, but not so much for spirited riding.

• The Japanese bike is 7 kg heavier than the Austrian machine, which is not much, but could be noticeable in day-to-day usage. Also there is a 2-litre difference between the fuel tank capacities of both the bikes giving an advantage to the Z300.

• The saddle height on the 390 Duke is already quite low at 800 mm, but the Z300 gets an even lower seat height of 785mm, due to which, it can be an apt choice for shorter riders.

Features

• KTM gets a bidirectional quickshifter which worked great during our testing and made the riding experience a bit more enjoyable. The Z300 does not have a quickshifter.

• Safety wise, both bikes get dual channel ABS, but KTM gets cornering ABS, and it is also switchable.

• Another plus point for the KTM is the addition of a switchable traction control system.

BikeDekho Says

The Kawasaki Z300 is priced at Rs 3.24 lakh, while the KTM 390 Duke is available at Rs 2.85 lakh (both prices ex-showroom Delhi). Making the Z300 Rs 40,000 more expensive than the 390 Duke. For the extra money you get the refined experience of a parallel-twin motor.

The Duke offers more power, performance, better hardware, and a lot more features, making a complete streetfighter package to consider. But still, if you are someone who wants a proper, minimalistic Japanese bike experience, then the Z300 could be a good option for you.