The Kengo R350 was actually released last year in China, but for obvious reasons, very few in the motorcycling fraternity took notice. All we know it is a dead ringer for the Kawasaki Ninja 300. On the outside, it mimics the Japanese machine in its entirety, including the bodywork, headlights, rear-view mirrors, seat, and the tail lamp. However, in its defense, the Kengo’s alloy wheel design differs from that of the Ninja, and while the Japanese motorcycle employs a single disc brake up front, the Chinese features a double discs up front. Oh, and if you squint hard, you’ll notice how each of the headlamp clusters in the Kengo breed LED strips inside.
The Kengo also rides on a 150 section rear tire, fatter than the 140 section rubber on the Kawasaki. Instrumentation on the Kengo is also Ninja inspired, but it isn’t as comprehensive as the Japanese. Also switch-gear on both motorcycles are different, with the Kengo using its own set. As for ABS, we’re not quite sure that if the Chinese knock-off features it or not, but our guess is a resounding no.
Right then, the Kengo R350 is powered by a 320.7 cc, DOHC equipped, twin cylinder, water cooled engine. So far so good, but the maximum power output, rated at 23.5 hp, falls ludicrously short of the 39 hp of the Ninja. The Japanese machine revs higher (an smoother) too, with maximum power coming in at 11,000 rpm, as compared to the Chinese machine’s 8500 rpm. The Kengo’s engine also makes 25 Nm of maximum twist at 6000 rpm, again falling short of the 27 Nm at 10,000 rpm that the Ninja produces from its 297 cc engine.
After its Chinese launch, the Kengo R350 will test Thai waters where the motorcycle has been previewed. Obviously, the Kengo will be way cheaper than the Kawasaki. It is expected that the Kengo R350 will retail in Thailand for close to 169,000 baht (INR 3.20 lakhs – approx.), while the Kawasaki Ninja 300 is priced at 226,000 baht (INR 4.30 lakhs – approx.).
via MZ Crazy Cars
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