2023 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R: What else can you buy?

Kawasaki recently brought in the 2023 edition of its litre-class sportbike, the Ninja ZX-10R, to India with a price tag of Rs 15.99 lakh (ex-showroom). While it continues to be one of the most affordable offerings in its league, there are a couple of alternatives you might want to consider that cost nearly the same. Here’s what the list looks like. 

Suzuki Hayabusa: Rs 16.41 lakh 

The Suzuki Hayabusa needs no introduction due to its global popularity. Such is the fan base of the bike in India that the first two slots of the latest iteration were sold out within a couple of days. The highlight of the Busa is its aerodynamic and voluptuous design along with the smooth and ballistic 1,340cc, inline four-cylinder mill that makes 187.3bhp and 150Nm. Suzuki has also decked up the new-gen model with a host of electronic aids which was not the case with the older model.

Ducati Multistrada V2: Rs 15.49 lakh onwards

If you’re more into mile munching than track riding, the Ducati Multistrada V2 would be a great option. The presence of alloy wheels restricts the amount of off-roading it can do. However, the long-travel suspension setup, high ground clearance, and comfortable ergonomics make it suitable for good as well as bad roads. Powering the bike is a 937cc, L-twin mill that churns out 111.3bhp and 96Nm. Notably, the S trim also incorporates Ducati Skyhook Suspension EVO semi-active suspension system.

Honda Africa Twin: Rs 16 lakh onwards

The Honda Africa Twin is also an adventure tourer, but a more versatile one than the Multi V2. Owing to a bigger 21-inch front wheel with wire spokes at both ends, it’s capable of taking a lot of beating on nasty terrain. Also, one can opt for the convenience of DCT (Dual Clutch Transmission) which negates the need to shift gears manually. Sporting a host of advanced goodies, it runs on a 1,082.96cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that makes 98bhp at 7,500rpm and 103Nm of peak torque at 6,000rpm. 

Harley-Davidson Sportster S: Rs 16.51 lakh

If you want something brash and attention-seeking at the cost of practicality, the Harley-Davidson Sportster is truly a maniac of a machine. The odd yet imposing design of the bike guarantees several second glances from the onlookers, while the 1,252cc Revolution Max engine has enough torque to get your adrenaline pumping in no time. And unlike the Harleys of yesteryear, it gets a decent amount of features like three riding modes (Sport, Road, and Rain), two customisable modes, engine brake control, ABS, and traction control. 

(All prices are ex-showroom)