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2015 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS Review
2015 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS on www.Totalmotorcycle.com
The Premium Lightweight Sportbike Offers Power And Agility…
Whether referring to engine or chassis performance, or the latest available technology, the name “Ninja” implies the very best that Kawasaki has to offer. In the case of the all-new Ninja 300, it means a larger-displacement 296cc engine with the power and torque to eclipse everything in its class.
The well-respected and highly capable Kawasaki Ninja® 300 ABS returns for 2015 with new colors, graphics and sporty Dunlop tires. The lightweight sportbike also continues to offer the ideal entry point for novice riders, track-day enthusiasts, commuters and riders of all sizes.
At first glance, it might appear to be a larger capacity sportbike, and its diminutive engine size certainly packs a mighty punch in terms of its spec sheet. The Ninja 300 ABS ABS boasts many of the features found on the larger Ninja models, such as a Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®), an FCC clutch with assist and slipper functions as well as an ABS braking system.
Not only is the Ninja 300 ABS ABS regarded as the best lightweight sportbike in the range, it is more than capable of surprising competitors with higher displacement in tight, technical corners.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 2015 KAWASAKI Ninja 300 ABS ABS
•296cc parallel-twin engine with Digital Fuel Injection for power and economy
•ABS brakes increase rider confidence (Ninja 300 ABS ABS models only)
•Low, tapered seat accommodates riders of all sizes
•Ninja sportbike DNA apparent in bodywork design, performance and agility
•New Dunlop TT900 GP tires for 2015
•Updated colors and graphics for 2015
•Special SE colors also available (non-ABS model only)
ENGINE
The heart of the Ninja 300 ABS is its liquid-cooled 296cc parallel-twin engine that is tuned to deliver strong low- and mid-range torque for crisp city responses as well as excellent high-RPM power on the open road.
Much of its prowess can be attributed to its advanced Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®), which helps manage cold starting, while providing excellent throttle response and good fuel efficiency.
In addition to its long-stroke engine configuration, the Ninja 300 ABS features a low-friction cam chain, lightweight pistons with a hard anodized coating for low-friction, as well as a 10.6:1 compression ratio to allow the use of regular-grade gasoline.
The high-tech pistons are cooled by an oil spray across the bottom surface. Lightweight piston pins also help reduce reciprocating weight without sacrificing the high redline, and the sleeveless “open-deck” die-cast aluminum cylinders feature a friction-reducing “T-treatment” plating for maximum durability.
The large-volume, 2.4-liter oil pan has cooling fins to keep operating temperatures in check, and is shaped to allow maximum ground clearance. An easy-to-access cartridge-type spin-on oil filter simplifies maintenance.
TRANSMISSION & BRAKES
To assist newer riders, the six-speed sequential transmission features Kawasaki’s positive neutral finder to make finding neutral a cinch when stopped. A premium FCC clutch with assist and slipper functions has an assist function that reduces lever effort by up to 25% to reduce fatigue on long rides. It also has a race-style “slipper” design to reduce rear-wheel “hop” that can be associated with high-RPM downshifting, giving the rider greater control on the track or the street.
The petal-type 290mm front and 220mm rear brake discs utilize a lightweight Nissin ABS system on the Ninja 300 ABS ABS model, offering some riders peace of mind when road conditions change. The discs are gripped by powerful two-piston calipers and, like all Ninja models, the 300 is equipped with components that were developed by professional riders to help ensure class-leading performance for even the most advanced riders.
CHASSIS & BODYWORK
Wide main frame pipes under the fuel tank are made from high-tensile steel. They have extra gusseting to enhance torsional rigidity for improved sportbike handling. Kawasaki engineers designed the front engine mounts to tame vibration and these help make the Ninja 300 ABS to feel noticeably smooth, despite the power produced by its 296cc engine.
The suspension was tuned to complement the rigid frame, so its spring rates provide a comfortable ride on city streets without compromising its legendary sportbike handling that confirms it is a true Ninja motorcycle.
The aggressive bodywork features an edgy design that is superbly aerodynamic, and effective at managing engine heat. To help keep the ride comfortable, Kawasaki Air Management System (KAMS) uses a special deflector to channel hot air from the back of the radiator so it exits from the bottom of the motorcycle, instead of being blown onto the rider.
The Ninja 300 ABS also has a modern, floating windscreen design that helps minimize airflow buffeting around the rider’s helmet.
For 2015, the Ninja 300 ABS and 300 ABS are available in two different colors: Lime Green and Pearl Stardust White. Customers can also specify the Ninja 300 ABS SE in Metallic Moondust Gray / Ebony, which offers even more graphic design elements than the standard models.
A combination of digital and analog instruments feature a large, easy-to-read analog tachometer coupled with a digital multi-function display including a speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge and digital clock. The digital screen also incorporates an Economical Riding Indicator (ECO) that alerts the rider when they are operating the Ninja 300 ABS in a style that maximizes fuel economy.
A natural riding position and comfortable ergonomics combine with lightweight handling and nimble responses to deliver a pleasurable ride on city streets and highways, twisty backroads and racetracks.
The full-size, 17”, ten-spoke wheels contribute to this great handling package and, for 2015 the Ninja 300 ABS will be equipped with Dunlop TT900 GP tires to improve the riding experience. These remain the same 110/70-17 front and 140/70-17 rear sizes as before.
Lightweight and agile, the Ninja 300 ABS delivers low ownership costs coupled with class-leading sportbike performance!
2015 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS www.Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features
ABS brakes increase rider confidence on the Ninja 300 ABS ABS model
Low 30.9″ seat height and tapered seat boosts confidence with easier reach to the ground
296cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine design offers superior highway passing ability and acceleration compared to other single-cylinder lightweight sportbikes
Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®) system uses dual 32mm throttle bodies to provide outstanding throttle response and superb fuel economy
FCC clutch with Assist and Slipper functions provides excellent power handling capabilities and the Assist function provides a light lever feel. The Slipper function reduces the effect of back-torque to minimize wheel “hop” when downshifting
Sportbike bodywork features an aggressive, edgy design with strong Ninja® family DNA that sets the Ninja 300 ABS apart from its lightweight sportbike competitors
High-tensile frame provides optimum rigidity for superior feel and agility compared to the competition
Ten-spoke 17″ sportbike wheels look great and are fitted with Dunlop TT900 GP sportbike tires for optimum handling
Six-speed transmission features a roller-type shift drum for smooth actuation. It also has strong gears for maximum durability and a positive neutral finder makes it easy to find neutral when stopped
Kawasaki Air Management System (KAMS) uses a special deflector to channel hot air from the back of the radiator, so it exits from the bottom of the motorcycle, instead of being blown onto the rider when the fan is activated
2015 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS www.Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits
296cc Parallel-Twin Cylinder Engine
Compact parallel-twin design offers good mass centralization for nimble handling
Tuned to deliver smooth, step-free power with excellent mid-range and high-RPM power for effective highway performance
Low-friction cam chain promotes maximum power and efficiency
Moderate 10.6:1 compression ratio allows use of regular 87-octane unleaded gasoline and helps reduce operating temperatures
High-tech pistons reduce reciprocating weight and feature a hard-anodized coating to minimize friction and boost performance
Sleeveless “open-deck” die-cast aluminum cylinders minimize weight and feature a friction-reducing “T-treatment” plating
Crank journal bearings are made from a strong alloy for maximum durability
Large-volume oil pan features cooling fins and does not compromise ground clearance
Easy-to-access cartridge-type spin-on oil filter simplifies maintenance
Exhaust System
Long, curved 2-into-1 header design contributes to the Ninja 300 ABS’s low- and mid-range torque as well as the smooth, step-free power curve
Complex-geometry silencer design offers modern styling and meets all regulations without compromising engine performance
Large brushed-finish metal silencer guard reduces noise and helps protect the passenger from exhaust heat
Meets strict Euro 3 emission standards with a single catalyzer in the collector section
Liquid-Cooling with KAMS
Kawasaki Air Management System (KAMS) uses a special deflector to redirect hot air from the radiator fan, so it exits from the bottom of the motorcycle instead of being blown onto the rider
Lightweight Denso radiator offers effective engine cooling with minimal space and weight
Fan design uses a quiet-running motor that also saves space
Fins on the crankcase provide additional engine cooling
Six-speed Transmission with FCC Assist and Slipper Clutch
Premium FCC clutch with assist and slipper functions can handle more power with significantly less lever effort than traditional clutches
Clutch design also makes it easy to modulate and helps reduce the effect of back-torque for reduced wheel “hop” when downshifting
Six-speed transmission features a roller-type shift drum for smooth actuation and strong gears for maximum durability. It also offers a positive neutral finder that makes it easy to find neutral when stopped
Involute splines minimize friction and backlash between the gears and shafts for easy gear synchronization and smooth shifting under power
Digital Fuel Injection (DFI®)
Dual 32mm Keihin throttle bodies and a digital ECU offer easy starting, crisp throttle response, and help low fuel consumption
ABS Brakes with Petal-Type Discs (Ninja 300 ABS ABS model only)
ABS brakes feature a compact Nissin ABS unit
The entire ABS system weighs only 4.5 lb
Large-diameter, 290mm front petal-type disc and a balanced action two-piston caliper offer excellent performance and a natural feel at the lever
Two-piston caliper grips the 220mm rear petal disc
Rigid Sportbike Chassis
High-tensile steel frame uses rigid main tubes for optimum chassis response and steering precision
Frame design and chassis tuning offer confidence-inspiring stability at both high and low speeds
Beefy swingarm bracket contributes to the frame’s rigidity and helps achieve an optimal balance of chassis stiffness
Square-beam swingarm complements the frame’s rigidity
Suspension
37mm telescopic front fork complements the rigid frame and wide rear tire
Uni-Trak® rear suspension linkage helps provide predictable sportbike handling and good ride comfort
Rear shock features five-way adjustable preload to help manage rear ride height whether riding solo or with a passenger
Wheels & Tires
Attractive 17″, ten-spoke wheels allow modern sportbike tires to be fitted
Dunlop TT900 GP tires are the perfect match for the agility of the 2014 Ninja 300 ABS sportbike
High-Tech Instrumentation
Large easy-to-read analog tachometer
Multi-function digital display features an easy-to-read speedometer, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge, digital clock and warning lights
Economical Riding Indicator (ECO) illuminates to tell the rider when they are riding to maximize fuel economy
Aerodynamic Bodywork
Sportbike bodywork features an aggressive and edgy design with strong Ninja family DNA that sets the Ninja 300 ABS apart from its lightweight sportbike competitors
Modern floating windscreen design helps reduce turbulence and rider fatigue
Aggressive dual headlight design, slim tail section and separate seats enhance the sportbike’s aggressive appearance
Two helmet holders conveniently located under the rear seat
Two-stage under-seat storage compartment can hold a small U-lock or similar device and is hinged for easy access to the tool kit
Two hooks under the tail, plus two behind the rear passenger pegs provide anchor points for securing items to the rear of the bike
New colors for the 2015 Ninja 300 ABS and Ninja 300 ABS ABS include Lime Green or Pearl Stardust White
The Ninja 300 ABS SE model is available in Metallic Moondust Gray / Ebony
Ergonomics
Rider’s seat is narrower towards the front, making it easier for riders to reach the ground
Passenger seat features a flat angle, making it easy to also secure cargo or soft luggage
Slightly forward-slanting seat and slightly raised, wide handlebar give the Ninja 300 ABS a comfortable riding position
Genuine Kawasaki Accessories
Color Matched Seat Cowl is factory designed with a molded pad and color-matched to your Ninja 300 ABS
Three optional gel seats provide additional comfort. They are available in standard, carbon fiber, and Kawi Girl™ finishes for a custom look
A Tank Bag and Soft Top Case are among the custom-designed tank bags made exclusively for the Ninja 300 ABS. They can be installed or removed quickly, including multiple storage areas for your gear, offering an expandable section for carrying larger items
A “Tall” windscreen was factory designed for easy installation. the 3″ taller bubble design adds wind protection
A Fuel Tank/Knee Pad has matching graphics and helps protect the paint while providing better grip for the rider
Engine Guards were factory designed for easy installation, helping reduce bodywork damage in case of a tip-over
All accessories approved by Kawasaki engineers
2015 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS – www.Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $5,299 USD
Engine: Four-stroke, liquid-cooled, DOHC, parallel twin
Displacement: 296cc
Bore x stroke: 62 x 49mm
Compression ratio: 10.6:1
Cooling: Liquid
Fuel injection: DFI® with dual 32mm throttle bodies
Ignition: TCBI with digital advance
Transmission: Six-speed
Final drive: Chain
Frame: Semi-double cradle, high-tensile steel
Wheelbase: 55.3″
Rake / trail: 27 degrees / 3.7″
Front suspension / wheel travel: 37mm hydraulic telescopic fork / 4.7″
Rear suspension / wheel travel: Uni-Trak® with five-way adjustable preload / 5.2″
Front tire: 110/70-17
Rear tire: 140/70-17
Front brake: Single 290mm petal-type disc with two-piston hydraulic caliper and ABS
Rear brake: Single 220mm petal-type disc with two-piston hydraulic caliper and ABS
Overall length: 79.3″
Overall width: 28.1″
Overall height: 43.7″
Seat height: 30.9″
Curb weight: 383.7 lb
Fuel capacity: 4.5 gallons
Colors: Lime Green or Pearl Stardust White
MSRP: $5,299
Warranty: 12 months
Kawasaki Protection Plan: (optional) 12, 24, 36 or 48 months
2015 Kawasaki Ninja 300 ABS – www.Totalmotorcycle.com Canadian Specifications/Technical Details
Canada MSRP Price: $5,799 CDN
ENGINE
Type 4-stroke Parallel Twin
Displacement 296cc
Bore and stroke 62.0 x 49.0 mm
Compression ratio 10.6:1
Valve system DOHC, 8 valves
Fuel system Fuel Injection: 32mm x 2 (Keihin)
Ignition Digital
Lubrication Forced Lubrication, wet sump
Cooling Liquid-cooled
BRAKES
Front: type Single 290 mm petal disc
Front: calipers Single balanced actuation dual-piston
Rear: type Single 220mm petal disc
Rear: calipers Dual-piston
DIMENSIONS
Overall length 2,015mm
Overall width 715mm
Overall height 1,110mm
Wheelbase 1,405mm
Seat height 785mm
Curb mass** 174kg
Fuel capacity 17 litres
Ground clearance 140mm
DRIVETRAIN
Transmission 6-speed, return
Final drive Seeled chain
Primary reduction ratio 3.087 (71/23)
Gear ratio: 1st 2.714 (38/14)
Gear ratio: 2nd 1.789 (34/19)
Gear ratio: 3rd 1.409 (31/22)
Gear ratio: 4th 1.160 (29/25)
Gear ratio: 5th 1.000 (27/27)
Gear ratio: 6th .857 (24/28)
Final reduction ratio 3.000 (42/14)
Clutch Wet multi-disc, manual
FRAME
Type Tube diamond,steel
Wheel travel: front 120mm
Wheel travel: rear 132mm
Tire: front 110/70-17 M/C 54S
Tire: rear 140/70-17 M/C 66S
Caster (rake) 27°
Trail 93mm
Steering angle (left/right) 35° / 35°
PERFORMANCE
Maximum Power‡ 29.0 kW {39PS} / 11,000
Maximum Torque‡ 27.0 N·m {2.8 kgf·m} / 10,000 rpm
SUSPENSION
Suspension, front 37mm telescopic fork
Suspension, rear Bottom-Link Uni-Trak with gas charged shock and 5-way adjustable preload
* The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price does not include freight, pre-delivery inspection or applicable taxes. The final price is at the discretion of the dealer. Prices and Specifications are subject to change without prior notice. The amount indicated as “Your price” may include an optional instant Mega Cash credit that is deducted from the manufacturer’s suggested retail price before taxes. This promotion is time limited and certain conditions will apply. See your dealer for complete details. Offer not available on financed purchases and cannot be combined with any other special offers. The final price is at the discretion of the dealer. Prices and Specifications are subject to change without prior notice.
** Includes all necessary materials and fluids to operate correctly, full tank of fuel (more than 90% of capacity) and tool kit (if supplied)
‡ Power / Torque figures measured at the crankshaft.
The specifications mentioned here apply to and have been achieved by production models under standard operating conditions. We intend only to give a fair description of the vehicle and its performance capabilities but these specifications may not apply to every machine supplied for sale. Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. reserves the right to alter specifications without prior notice. Equipment illustrated and specifications may vary to meet individual markets. Available colours may vary by market.
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