TVS Apache RTX 300 Vs Kawasaki Versys-X 300: Most Affordable And Expensive 300cc ADV Bikes Compared

2025 has been one of the busiest years for the adventure bike space in India. There have been so many launches, and one of the most compelling options is the all-new TVS Apache RTX 300, with its insane pricing. And on the other end of the pricing spectrum is the re-introduced Kawasaki Versys-X 300. One is a homegrown, tech-laden machine built to redefine the 300cc ADV space, while the other is a refined, twin-cylinder Japanese tourer that’s made a comeback at a much lower price than before. Let’s see how they stack up against each other:

Design

The TVS Apache RTX 300 is a striking bike – it looks bold, muscular, and unmistakably modern. The split headlamps, tall windscreen, and angular tank extensions lend it an aggressive, rally-inspired stance. Details like the gold-finished inverted fork, exposed white-painted subframe, and bronze calipers give it a premium touch. Even the tail section, with its minimalist yet purposeful design, adds to its sporty ADV personality.

In contrast, the Kawasaki Versys-X 300 carries a more traditional ADV design language. Its tall stance, semi-faired bodywork, and large windscreen make it look mature and function-oriented rather than flashy. The wire-spoke wheels and chunky rear grab rail with an integrated luggage rack underscore its long-distance touring intent.

Engine

This is where the biggest difference lies. Powering the TVS bike is a single-cylinder, 299.1cc, liquid-cooled engine producing 36PS at 9,000rpm, 28.5Nm at 7,000rpm, and paired to a 6-speed gearbox with a slip-and-assist clutch. It packs more torque lower in the rev range, making it livelier off the line. Even the bronze-ish engine casing finish makes it look more premium.

The Versys-X 300, meanwhile, uses a parallel-twin, 296cc, liquid-cooled, engine shared with  the Kawasaki Ninja 300, making 40PS at 11,500rpm and 25.7Nm at 10,000rpm. This twin-cylinder setup promises smoother power delivery, and a refined cruising experience. It too gets a 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch. The blacked-out finish of the engine is a stark contrast to the eye-catchy, shiny silver finish of the two-into-one exhaust pipe.

Underpinnings

The TVS Apache RTX 300 has a split trellis frame, suspended by a 41mm inverted fork (adjustable on the BTO variant) and pre-load adjustable linked monoshock, both with 180mm wheel travel. It rides on alloy wheels — 19-inch front and 17-inch rear — wrapped in tubeless dual-purpose tyres. Braking is handled by petal discs at both ends, complemented by dual-channel ABS with 3 modes.

This Kawasaki Versys bike gets a backbone frame setup with a 41mm telescopic fork (130mm travel) and monoshock (148mm wheel travel). It gets a wire-spoke 19/17-inch wheel setup with tubed tyres. It too uses petal discs and gets dual-channel ABS but there are no fancy modes. Underpinnings-wise, the Versys X-300 looks more utilitarian whereas the Apache seems more touring-centric but also doesn’t shy away from a bit of off-road fun.

Features

The Apache RTX 300 hits a six out of the stadium here. Even the base variant gets a full colour 5-inch TFT console with smartphone connectivity, phone alerts, turn-by-turn navigation, performance number recorders, and GoPro control. It also has 4 ride modes, switchable traction control, and cruise control. Higher variants add a quickshifter, TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System), Google maps screen mirroring, and an adaptive LED headlight.

In contrast, the Kawasaki bike sticks to basics — a semi-digital console with an analogue tachometer, and the LCD part for speed, gear position, fuel, and trip info. It misses smartphone connectivity, LED lighting, or navigation. Kawasaki offers optional touring accessories such as panniers, knuckle guards, and fog lamps for those who want to kit it out for longer adventures.

Price & Verdict

Despite the price correction post GST 2.0, the Versys-X 300 remains significantly more expensive than the Apache RTX 300. However, it offers the smoothness and refinement of a parallel-twin engine, which no other bike in this class currently provides. The TVS Apache RTX 300, on the other hand, punches far above its weight. It delivers strong performance, a premium design, modern electronics, and exceptional value – especially the base model – at nearly half the price of the Kawasaki.