03rd Oct 2017 Every segment is valuable for Kawasaki in India. While the motorcycles of Ninja, Z and Versys series are regularly upgraded, Kawasaki slowly and steadily works on off-road motorcycles as well. Entered with KLX110 initially, Kawasaki now has added KX450F and KLX450R into the portfolio. Like the first entrant the new off-road motorcycles fall under the CBU category.

KX series has a simple design philosophy which says put mid-level to expert riders on the top of the podium. KX450F becomes the lightest machine in the class with a significant reduction in the weight to engine and chassis. The KX450F comes at the price of 7,97,300 (Ex Showroom Delhi). Fuel-injected engine, which 450CC, offers hard-hitting power across the rev-range while ensuring stable fuel-metering in all conditions.

In case of KLX450R performance is primary alongside power and control. The 449 CM3 liquid cooled, 4-storke single cylinder engine is tuned for maximum low-and mid-range performance. Its wheelbase is 1,480 mm and ground clearance is 35 mm. KLX45R has got 8 litres of fuel capacity making it highest as compared to other Kawasaki off-road motorcycle. Priced at 8,49,000 (Ex showroom Delhi) KLX450R is expected to woo passionate endure riders.

On the occasion of launch Yutaka Yamashita, Managing said” The culture and passion for off road motorcycle need be developed in India. Right now it is a niche market and we are happy to contribute in this segment by introducing KX450F, which was awarded as world’s best motocrosser in 2016 by Cycle World.”  Those, who follow Motocross racing, will be aware of the fact that The Monster Energy Kawasaki racing team has been the most dominant supercross and motocross team in the last decade with eight combined AMA titles.

02nd Oct 2017 KRT rider Jonathan Rea won an unprecedented third FIM Superbike World Championship title in succession after a peerless display of front running in a wet first race at Magny Cours in France. No other rider had won three WorldSBK titles in a row before today. Tom Sykes (KRT) overcame recent injury and treacherous track conditions to finish third in the 21-lap opening race at Magny Cours.

A historic third championship win in succession for Jonathan Rea came after his 12^th win of the season, which was also the 50^thof his WorldSBK career. Has led the 2017 title race from round one, race one, and make sure of his ultimate title success after winning today’s wet race by over 16 seconds. Rea’s latest victory came despite the slippery conditions that changed from lap-to-lap as the skies brightened after heavy overnight rain.

Jonathan celebrated his latest championship success trackside with a three-pronged golden trident – symbolising his three championships in succession – and a special crash helmet design, before coming back to pitlane to celebrate his historic achievement with his team and KHI personnel.

Shortly before the first race of the weekend Rea had also secured pole position after a dramatic and wet Superpole 2. He fell early in the 15-minute session but quick work from his crew in pitlane ensured he would take to the track again, and Jonathan duly finished in pole position.

A heroic and ultimately rewarding performance from Sykes saw him start from third place after Superpole 2 and fight bravely at times to maintain a podium position, despite his recent left hand surgery.

Tom saw off an early challenge from Chaz Davies to keep himself a firm second in the championship as Davies dropped down the order. Sykes, the 2013 WorldSBK champion with KRT, battled again in the final laps, this time with Marco Melandri. They accidentally touched on the penultimate lap, as they rounded the long right hand corner of turn three.

Sykes only missed out on the second place he had held for most of the race by 0.350 seconds. This was Tom’s 15^th podium of the year and the 99^th of his long career.

One more 21-lap race will take place in France this weekend, again at 13.00 local time tomorrow, Sunday 1^st October.

Jonathan Rea, stated: “I have no words right now. I have sacrificed so much in my life, as have my parents and everyone involved in helping me get me to this level. To win it the championship the first time, the second time and then go three times in a row – I cannot compute my feelings right now. My thanks to all the team, every single member of the team, and everyone from Kawasaki back in Japan. Most of all I want to thank my wife and kids who sacrifice so much. To win this race was special. Winning a race to win the championship is not something I have done before, so I was important for me to do that. I also scored my 50^thWorldSBK race win in WorldSBK as well.”

Tom Sykes, stated: “Considering the injury I had I am just happy to be here, never mind get on the podium. At times I struggled with edge grip in the track conditions, and Marco Melandri had good side grip towards the end. We had a bit of a ‘kiss’ in turn three as out paths crossed, while fighting for second place. I was third today but if somebody had offered me this kind of result two weeks ago, I would have taken it. I struggle to put on my socks in the morning so I am not sure how I could manage to ride the bike! Thanks to Kawasaki for making it possible for me to ride and for making it as comfortable as possible for me to ride.”

 30th Sept 2017 Kawasaki Z900, which was earlier available in two colours, is now available in complete metallic spark black colour. Apart from the new colour, the Z900 model year of 2018 has also undergone some graphical changes, which give the naked bike even more eye-catching look. The other two colours helped Z900 to establish in the Indian market and the new colour will give customers one more option to choose.
Speaking on the new arrival Yutaka Yamashita, Managing Director of India Kawasaki Motors, said, “Our Z900 received a very positive response. I hope that with this new addition, passionate customers those who waited for this colour will be happy. Responding to the requirements of our customers is one of our most important priorities.”
“We, being a premium brand, always strive to make our products with a certain class through its appearance and technology.” further states Yutaka Yamashita. India Kawasaki Motors will continue to sell Z900 in earlier available colours which has given the company good results.
Kawasaki Z900 is a Completely Built Unit (CBU) in India, which is produced in Kawasaki Motors Thailand (KMT) currently. The technical specifications and the price of Z900 of 2018 are kept same. Based on the response from customers India Kawasaki Motors will evaluate the stock between these colour options.

 28th Sept 2017 Sports-tourer Ninja 1000 ABS is Kawasaki’s most desirable motorcycle in India. Up till now this motorcycle was alluring customers with its performance and technology. The new colour change has given the Ninja 1000 ABS more attractive look without compromising on the DNA of Ninja family. To be very specific on the colour change, it has got now new shade of emerald blazed green / metallic carbon grey and metallic spark black/metallic carbon grey.
Yutaka Yamashita, Managing Director of India Kawasaki Motors, said, “Ninja 1000 ABS is doing exceptionally well in the global premium sports-tourer market. And when we say global market, India also becomes a part of it. That’s why Ninja 1000 is our SKD model in the new IKM factory of India.”
“Every product and its variant has a specific product life cycle. I anticipate that our Ninja 1000 ABS with redefined colour combination will attract new customers.” further states Yutaka Yamashita. There are no changes on the technical and design front. The existing advance technology does give this motorcycle an upper-hand in the competition against its competitors.
Ninja 1000 ABS, which Kawasaki also calls as “Gentleman’s sportbike”, is available in India at 9,98,000 (Ex Showroom Delhi).

 10th Sept 2017 India Kawasaki Motors today announced the opening of a new dealership in Vijayawada strengthening the brand’s presence in India as part of its strategic dealership expansion across the country.

The opening of “Vasisht Kawasaki” marks the 13th Kawasaki dealership in India, situated at Door – No. 54 – 15 4A, Ground Floor, Guttikonda, Zoom Complex, Near Vinayaka Theater, Venkateswara Nagar, Vijayawada.

Commenting on the launch of new dealership, Mr. Yutaka Yamashita, Managing Director of India Kawasaki Motors says, “There is a latent demand for Super Sports bikes and we are geared up to serve such bike lovers. Typically, these bike enthusiasts also form clubs and enjoy sharing their experiences and long rides.

Mr. Rukesh Mandava, the principal owner of Vasisht Kawasaki, is an automobile enthusiast and an experienced businessman. His passion for the brand and delivering trusted and personalized customer experiences will ensure that a world-class Kawasaki dealership is serving enthusiasts in the city.

Kawasaki  is famous for delivering a premium lifestyle experience to its customers, allowing them to explore their spirit for freedom and adventure. My team and I are committed to delivering that experience in Vijayawada, and welcome everyone to enjoy the world of Kawasaki, said Mr. Rukesh Mandava, Dealer Principal, Vasisht Kawasaki.

The newest dealership offers the entire Kawasaki lineup of 19 motorcycle models, in addition to Kawasaki riding gear, apparel, and merchandise.

7th July 2017: Kawasaki is pleased to announce the launch of the 2017 Ninja 1000.

Now in its third iteration, an even more polished Ninja 1000 continues to offer the comfort and convenience to enable sport riding enthusiasts to take their seductively styled machines touring. Complementing the even smoother power delivery and extremely composed handling, the new model features increased touring performance care of improved wind protection, greater comfort and the clean-mount pannier system. All-new Ninja family styling　deepens its sporty image. And loaded with the latest electronics　technology that Kawasaki has to offer, the new Ninja 1000 is even　better equipped to meet a wide range of rider needs.

ADVANTAGES OF 2017:

NINJA SEDUCTION

Engine and chassis tuned for maximum riding excitement are complemented by even sharper styling inspired by Kawasaki’s Ninja super sport models.

Sharp Ninja styling

All-new bodywork includes a much sharper front cowl with a decidedly closer resemblance to  Kawasaki’s Ninja super sport models. The more aggressive visage is complemented by fierce new LED headlamps. The dynamic and sporty bodywork reflects the Ninja 1000’s exciting street riding potential.

EVERYDAY VERSATILITY & ENHANCED TOURING PERFORMANCE

An upright riding position, manageable power delivery, and surefooted handling offer the versatility for daily riding, while increased touring performance and numerous accessories make it even easier to accommodate a passenger and luggage on weekend trips.

Increased wind protection

Two-piece fairings are wider, offering increased wind protection for the rider’s legs. A new, taller double-bubble windshield also contributes to the increased wind protection. As before, the windshield is adjustable by hand (without tools), with three available positions to suit rider preference.

LED Head Lamps

In addition to contributing to the Ninja 1000’s sharper looks, dual LED headlamps (each featuring low and high beams, as well as a LED position lamp) offer significantly increased brightness, casting their light wider and farther forward.

Stylish multi-functional instrumentation

All-new sophisticated instrument design features a large analogue tachometer flanked by warning lamps on one side, and a gear position indicator and multi-function LCD screen on the other.

ADVANCED ELECTRONICS

The Ninja 1000 is equipped with KCMF (Kawasaki Cornering Management Function), Kawasaki’s latest IMU enhanced electronics package.

KCMF (Kawasaki Cornering Management Function): Total Engine & Chassis Management Package

Using the latest evolution of Kawasaki’s advanced modelling software and feedback from a compact Bosch IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) that gives an even clearer real-time picture of chassis orientation, KCMF monitors engine and chassis parameters throughout the corner – from entry, through the apex, to corner exit – modulating brake force and engine power to facilitate smooth transition from acceleration to braking and back again, and to assist riders in tracing their intended line through the corner. On the Ninja 1000, KCMF oversees the following systems:

– KTRC (including traction and wheelie control)

– KIBS (including pitching and corner braking control)

KIBS (Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System)

Kawasaki’s super sport-grade high-precision brake management system take into account the particular handling characteristics of super sport motorcycles, ensuring highly efficient braking with minimal intrusion during sport riding. KIBS also incorporates corner braking control, modulating brake force to counter the tendency of the bike to stand up when braking mid-corner.

Engine

Engine tuning focused on the feeling the rider gets when opening the throttle. Strong torque is complemented by direct throttle response. Revised engine settings offer even smoother power delivery and cleaner emissions. Revised ECU settings contribute to even smoother power delivery, facilitating control and contributing to rider comfort and confidence, and deliver cleaner emissions, ensuring various market regulations (including Euro 4) are cleared.

CHASSIS

Exhaust System

For non-North American models, revisions to the main and pre catalysers contribute to cleaner emissions, ensuring Euro 4 regulations are cleared.

Brakes

Revised shock settings and linkage ratio offer suppler suspension action for improved bump absorption and firmer cushioning. The new linkage also results in a lower seat height (820 mm >> 815 mm). 

* Revised rear brake pad material and optimised pedal return spring offer improved control and increased overall performance. Super sport-style high-precision brake management system is standard equipment on the 2017 Ninja 1000.
Please see KIBS (Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System) below.

Increased Wind Protection

A new double-bubble windshield is 15 mm taller at the centre, contributing to the increased protection. Windshield has three available positions spanning approximately 20o and ranging from sporty to maximum wind protection, to suit rider preference.

Adjustment can be done by hand (no tools required) by depressing the release button below the instrument panel. (Windshield adjustment should be done with the bike stopped.) Two-piece fairings are wider (up to 28 mm wider each side), offering increased wind protection for the rider’s legs.

Brighter Headlamps

In addition to contributing to the Ninja 1000’s sharper looks, dual LED headlamps also offer increased brightness while drawing less power. Each headlamp unit features low and high beams, as well as a LED position lamp.

The lamps offer significantly increased brightness, casting their light wider and farther forward. On the low-beam setting, lateral illumination is 1.3 to 1.5 times brighter, with a wider light projection area; on the high-beam setting, forward projection distance increases 1.4 times.

* The efficient LED bulbs also draw approximately 50% less power. 5-way adjustable clutch lever can be set to suit the size of the rider’s hands, contributing to rider comfort.

* Mirrors are positioned 20 mm farther outward and have a greater range of movement, offering easier adjustability. Both rider and passenger seats deliver increased comfort. The redesigned rider seat has a wider seat area, offering greater support, and enabling longer stretches at time without having to stop due to discomfort.

The passenger seat is longer (+25 mm), with 3 mm thicker urethane padding and a design that swells at the front (25 mm thicker) to help keep tandem riders from sliding forward, all contributing to increased passenger comfort. Dampers on the underside of the seat help reduce vibration. Ergonomically sculpted passenger grips are easy to hold and are naturally positioned, contributing to passenger comfort Seat material of both seats has superb elasticity, offering increased comfort and holding performance. The material is also resistant to cold, allowing it to maintain its suppleness when temperatures drop and reducing the chance of tearing/ripping when exposed to cold temperatures.

* Front foot pegs are rubber-mounted to reduce vibration transmitted to the rider. Further, vibration-absorbing weights on the back of the foot guards minimise fluttering of the floating pieces.

* Both front and rear foot pegs feature rubber pads.

* The fairing design also covers part of the frame, contributing to a good ergonomic fit and helping to protect the rider from engine heat for added comfort.

Now that the standard tandem grips are compatible with the clean-mount system, mounting the panniers are as simple as sliding them onto the slots on the grips and the pannier supports integrated into tandem foot peg stays. (Installing accessory tandem grips is no longer required.)

Ninja fans can now look forward to an even more exhilarating experience.

Order taking is now open for India.

7th July, 2017 Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd, at its Indian subsidiary, named India Kawasaki Motors Pvt. Ltd. (India Kawasaki Motors, hereafter referred as “IKM”) has established a new plant independently. Operations from new production line will commence from September. In addition to the current model line up being produced (250-650 cc), the latest model with the largest engine capacity (1043 cc) known as (Ninja 1000) will also be assembled locally at IKM new plant.

In India, which is the world’s largest market of 2-wheelers, in FY2016 roughly 1.76 crore 2-wheelers were sold. Out of those, roughly 6.8 lacs were middle or large sized two-wheelers above 250cc. Along with the growth of the Indian economy, the company expects a continuous expansion in the middle and large engine capacity bikes which is a premium leisure superbike market in which Kawasaki specializes. The company also expects to cater to the needs of these consumers with the help of its new plant, and hopes to provide even broader spectrum of two-wheelers from the Kawasaki brand of two-wheelers in future.

The company was established within the premises of Bajaj Auto Ltd (hereafter BAL) plant located at Akurdi (Pune city) in 2010 and outsourced its production of the Kawasaki brand two-wheelers to BAL and the sales using BAL sales network. In 2013, IKM started production at its own factory, and started to speed up the process of constructing its independent sales and after-service network and steadily built up the framework required for the two-wheeler industry in India. The successful alliance with BAL in India ceased with effect from April 01, 2017. Subsequently, with the establishment of the new plant production capacity has increased 2-3 times of the existing capacity.

# India Kawasaki Motors Pvt. Ltd. Company Summary