Kawasaki Ninja 300 Vs Rivals: Battle of The Beasts

Kawasaki has launched the Ninja 300 in India, keeping the beast alive in the segment. But this segment is getting competitive day by day with sharper and more modern rivals like KTM RC 390, TVS Apache RR 310, BMW 310 RRand the Yamaha YZF R3. Does the Ninja 300 still have what it takes to survive the tough face-off? Let's find out, in this article, we'll compare the 2025 Kawasaki Ninja 300 with its rivals. However, before moving ahead, make sure to join the 91Wheels WhatsApp community to never miss out on any automotive updates

Design: Sharp Lines or Curves

The Kawasaki Ninja 300 continues its legacy with a sharp aerodynamic design. However, there are no major design updates with this facelift. With a closer look, you'll notice that those red accents are being replaced by yellow stripes. At the front, it carries the same twin projector headlamp setup along with a taller visor. Moving forward, you'll notice a big, muscular fuel tank flowing backwards with a split seat setup. But as compared to its competition, the design feels a bit outdated.

The Yamaha YZF R3 follows the typical R design philosophy, comes with a very sporty design. This design includes very sleek LED DRLs along a single projector setup inside the central intake. While the side fairing flows with the design and flaunts the R3 badging. Similar to the Ninja, it has a big, muscular fuel tank along with a split seat setup. The design ends with a small LED taillamp at the rear.

The KTM RC 390 is the boldest of the group in terms of design. The front fascia exudes aggression with that striking LED projector headlamp along with DRLs. Just above that, you'll notice a similar tall windscreen to that of the Ninja. While moving backwards comes a larger and more muscular fuel tank along with a split seat setup. At the back, the RC sports a sharp LED tailight with a tyre hugger that keeps the rear clean.

Apache RR 310 stands out with its striking design, reflecting the brand's racing vision. The Front showcases dual-bi LED headlamps flanked by LED DRLs. While the side panel is offering a clean and minimalist look, that big high high-mounted exhaust is a show stopper. The design flows towards the end with a big, intimidating fuel tank along with a split seat setup. At the rear, it features a small LED taillight with a short fender.

BMW 310 RR boasts a sporty, aggressive profile with sharp lines all around and aerodynamic design. The side-mounted exhaust complements the overall design, contributing to the bike's dynamic stance. Equipped with a split-seat configuration, the G 310 RR offers a comfortable and supportive riding position. The rear end of the G 310 RR features a minimalist tail design, highlighted by the LED taillight that enhances visibility and adds to the bike's modern look. 

Powertrain

Well, under the fairing, all bikes are powered by distinct engines. The KTM RC 390 leads with 42.9 bhp and 37 Nm of torque, making it the most aggressive and track-focused bike here. The Yamaha YZF-R3 follows closely with 41.4 bhp and 29.6 Nm from its parallel-twin engine, offering a refined and sporty experience. The Kawasaki Ninja 300, with its 38.8 bhp and 26.1 Nm output, feels slightly behind but delivers a smooth and reliable ride. The TVS Apache RR 310 produces a strong 37.48 bhp and 29 Nm, while the BMW G 310 RR, sharing the same engine base, puts out 33.5 bhp and 27.3 Nm.

Hardware

The KTM RC 390 stands out with premium hardware, featuring a 43mm WP APEX USD front fork and an adjustable rear mono-shock. It also gets the largest front brake disc and Supermoto ABS, giving it top-tier performance and control. The Yamaha R3 comes with 37mm KYB USD forks and a monoshock setup, offering a refined ride, although without adjustability. The TVS Apache RR 310 and BMW G 310 RR share similar components, USD forks at the front and 300mm/240mm discs. In contrast, the Kawasaki Ninja 300 uses a basic telescopic fork and slimmer tyres, making it feel dated compared to its rivals. Overall, the RC 390 leads in hardware for aggressive riders, while the others strike a better balance for everyday use.

Pricing

When it comes to pricing, the Kawasaki Ninja 300 is the most affordable among the fully-faired sport bikes, priced at around Rs 3.43 lakh (ex-showroom). The TVS Apache RR 310 follows closely at Rs 2.77 lakh(ex-showroom). Meanwhile, the BMW G 310 RR is priced higher at Rs 3.05 lakh (ex-showroom), mainly due to the BMW badge. The Yamaha YZF-R3 is priced at Rs 3.59 lakh (ex-showroom), making it one of the most expensive in this segment. At last, the KTM RC 390, priced at Rs 3.23 lakh(ex-showroom).

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