Kawasaki to launch Z250SL by year-end

Japanese two-wheeler manufacturer Kawasaki will soon introduce its single-cylinder quarter-litre motorcycle Z250SL in the Indian market. The launch of the first single-cylinder motorcycle is expected by the end of 2015.

When launched, Z250SL will be the most affordable Kawasaki in India. The motorcycle is powered by a liquid-cooled, four-stroke, 249cc powertrain that develops 26bhp power and 22.6Nm torque mated to six-speed transmission. The current selling Kawasaki Z250 is powered by a 249cc, parallel-twin engine that develops 31.5bhp.

"Components such as handlebars, clutch plates, front and rear suspensions, wheels, tyres, head- and tail-lamps, electrical switches, switch housings, radiator fans and other similar parts is likely to be locally sourced for the Z250SL," a source said.

The procurement of parts from local sources will help Kawasaki price the vehicle competitively in the range of Rs 1.5 to 2 lakh. Kawasaki Z250SL has a wheelbase of 1330mm and fuel tank capacity of 11 litres.

The motorcycle measures 1935 mm in length, 700 mm in width and 1015 mm in height with a kerb weight of 148kg. Kawasaki is not planning to discontinue twin-cylinder Z250. The report indicates that the Japanese two-wheeler manufacturer intends to sell both Z250 and Z250SL simultaneously.