The Kawasaki Z300 learner-approved naked bike comes in new colours for 2016 with a special edition model in Pearl Stardust White/Metallic Flat Spark Black with gold wheels for an extra $100.
The world’s first LAMS (learner-approved motorcycle scheme) street fighter comes with ABS and a slipper clutch.
The other colour scheme is Candy Crimson Red/Metallic Flat Spark Black and it’s still $5999 plus on-road costs, which is $400 less than the equivalent faired Ninja 300, Australia’s most popular motorcycle.
Kawasaki Z300 in Candy Crimson Red/Metallic Flat Spark BlackNot only does it feature the world’s smallest ABS, weighing just 2kg, but another great safety device for novice riders is the assist and slipper clutch. This will make novices look like pros as they quickly shift down gears without having to worry about locking up the rear wheel.
It uses the same tubular steel chassis, wheels, brakes, suspension and 296cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine as the popular Ninja 300.
However, it has the street-fighting style of its bigger Z brothers and, of course, gets straight bars for an upright riding position.
The Z300 has a kerb weight of 170kg and a flared fuel tank that holds a large 17 litres, which should give it substantial cruising range.
The engine is fitted with a sleeveless, die-cast aluminium cylinder, lightweight coated pistons and dual throttle valves.
Kawasaki claims the sporty LCD instrument panel is visible in all lighting conditions. The comprehensive panel features a speedometer, clock, fuel gauge, dual trip meters, odometer and Economical Riding Indicator to encourage fuel saving.