Kawasaki has just launched the much-anticipated 2025 Ninja 500 in India, and it arrives with a price tag of Rs. 5.29 lakh (ex-showroom). That’s a Rs. 5,000 bump over the outgoing model, which isn’t much, but it’s important to note that the hike hasn’t brought any visual changes. So, while the bike still looks as sharp as ever, it hasn’t received any cosmetic updates this time around.
Design
The 2025 Ninja 500 sticks to its aggressive design language. It’s got that classic supersport stance with twin LED headlights that look like they’re ready to slice through the night. The body panels are creased and edgy, and the upswept tail adds to its sporty profile. It definitely looks fast, even when it’s parked.
But here’s the kicker—India only gets the Metallic Carbon Gray color option. No bold greens or flashy schemes this time. It’s sleek, no doubt, but a bit of variety would’ve made things more exciting for riders who like a bit of flair.
Engine
Underneath that aggressive styling is a 451cc, parallel-twin engine that puts out 44.77bhp and 42.6Nm of torque. That’s a healthy dose of power for city sprints and highway rides. It’s paired with a smooth six-speed gearbox, so expect crisp shifts and solid performance across the rev range.
This engine setup gives you the balance of refinement and punch that Kawasaki has mastered over the years. Whether you’re carving corners or just commuting, it’s got enough juice to keep things interesting.
Chassis
Supporting all that power is a sturdy steel trellis frame, which provides a solid foundation for the bike’s performance. Suspension duties are handled by a telescopic front fork and a preload-adjustable monoshock at the rear. It’s not fancy, but it gets the job done.
Braking is taken care of by a 310mm disc up front and a 220mm disc at the rear. With a kerb weight of 171kg, the Ninja 500 should feel light and agile, making it an excellent choice for riders who want a nimble machine that doesn’t feel intimidating.
Features
Kawasaki has kept things modern when it comes to features. The Ninja 500 gets an LCD instrument cluster with Bluetooth connectivity—perfect for riders who want to pair their phones for quick info and call alerts.
It also comes with an LED headlight and tail light setup, which not only looks cool but also helps with visibility. These aren’t groundbreaking features, but they do add some tech-savvy appeal to the bike.
Rivals
Now let’s talk competition. The biggest rival to the Ninja 500 in India is the Aprilia RS457. Priced at Rs. 4.20 lakh (ex-showroom), the RS457 is more affordable by over a lakh. That’s a huge price gap, especially in this segment.
So, while the Ninja 500 has the Kawasaki brand appeal, smoother twin-cylinder performance, and slightly bigger engine, riders will definitely be comparing it closely with the sportier, value-packed Aprilia.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Bike | Price (Ex-Showroom) | Engine | Power | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ninja 500 | Rs. 5.29 lakh | 451cc Twin | 44.77bhp | 171kg |
| Aprilia RS457 | Rs. 4.20 lakh | 457cc Twin | ~47bhp | ~175kg |
The choice boils down to brand preference, budget, and the kind of performance you’re after.
The 2025 Ninja 500 doesn’t reinvent the wheel but improves on what already worked well. It’s sleek, fast, and built with Kawasaki’s tried-and-tested engineering. While the lack of color options and new visuals may disappoint some, the core package remains strong for anyone seeking a reliable, sporty everyday bike.
FAQs
What is the price of the Ninja 500?
The 2025 Kawasaki Ninja 500 is priced at Rs. 5.29 lakh ex-showroom.
Has the design changed in the new model?
No, there are no visual changes to the 2025 Ninja 500.
What colors are available in India?
Only the Metallic Carbon Gray color is available in India.
What engine powers the Ninja 500?
It uses a 451cc parallel-twin engine with 44.77bhp.
Who are the main rivals?
The Aprilia RS457 is the main competitor in this segment.
