RX3 Visits With the X-300

[1cylinderwonder]

Originally Posted by rjmorel

I went to look at the Versys 300 this weekend just to see it and sit on it. The dealer didn't have one on the floor but said they had one in the back they would wheel out. It was a new grey 2017 . I about fainted when I saw the price tag on it of $3495. Wozzers I almost came close to buying it. rj

Attachment 12766

Manufacturer’s Rebate and a realistic and firm shipping price set by Kawasaki the manufacturer, so dealers can’t screw you on shipping and setup fees!

[2LZ]

Could this actually be a reflection of the impact the RX3 has made on the market?
My first thought is "I doubt it" but I have a feeling that all of these small cc ADV bikes entering the market may have been caused by the market that the RX3 has found.
Stranger things have happened.

[1cylinderwonder]

Originally Posted by jontando

That exhaust is killing me. There is no way I'd take it off road.

I'm very interested in the Versys 300X. But you are correct about the exposed exhaust system. It reminds me of my Suzuki V-Strom's exposed, unprotected, and vulnerable exhaust system. And when, or if, I purchase the 300X, the first purchase will be a skid plate. Because I will be using the 300X both on and off road. I've already contacted some after-market accessory providers regarding the availability of a unobtrusive skid plate for the 300X.

The safety of the exhaust system on the 300X is also a reason I'm looking at the BMW G310GS. It has a very unique exhaust system that exits the engine from the rear of the engine, very similar to the Cannondale dual sport motorcycle of quite a few years ago, before filing for bankruptcy. No need to worry about the possible damage to the exhaust system.

[kohburn]

Originally Posted by jontando

That exhaust is killing me. There is no way I'd take it off road.

I also ride a Versys 650 - some people who really off-road it have rerouted the exhaust to not run under the engine like it does stock. it increases ground clearance 3" after adding a skid plate. the 650 is 465lbs. if the 300 is 385. that's 80 pounds less to throw around (and 20 less hp)

[jbfla]

Originally Posted by jontando

That exhaust is killing me. There is no way I'd take it off road.

From the X-300's Owner's Manual:



jb

[Sullybiker]

Ha, they still have that standard Kawi break-in that is the subject of much mirth on the 300 forums.

If you stick to 4000rpm, you'll be overtaken by someone pushing a stroller. It is practically impossible to adhere to unless you have your own private track and lots of time.

[jbfla]

Originally Posted by Sullybiker

Ha, they still have that standard Kawi break-in that is the subject of much mirth on the 300 forums.

If you stick to 4000rpm, you'll be overtaken by someone pushing a stroller. It is practically impossible to adhere to unless you have your own private track and lots of time.

Yes, no way to keep that engine under 4,000 rpm.....except at idle...

On my test ride, riding very conservatively, I shifted at 5,000 rpm.

At 7,000 rpm the buzz in the seat and handlebars kicked in.

When checking the specs of the Ninja, I found the sprockets are 14/42.

The X-300's are 14/46, which will yield an even higher rpm at the same speeds.

Sully, what is the fuel mileage on your Ninja?

jb

[Sullybiker]

Originally Posted by jbfla

Yes, no way to keep that engine under 4,000 rpm.....except at idle...

On my test ride, riding very conservatively, I shifted at 5,000 rpm.

At 7,000 rpm the buzz in the seat and handlebars kicked in.

When checking the specs of the Ninja, I found the sprockets are 14/42.

The X-300's are 14/46, which will yield an even higher rpm at the same speeds.

Sully, what is the fuel mileage on your Ninja?

jb

Mine is at the lower end of the scale, on a bike that is considered very economical. I average about 50 in winter and nearer 60 on Summer gas, but my commute is about the worst case scenario - four miles of 70-80mph freeway with some big hills, then about five miles of suburban roads, then stop & go for a few miles.

On the open road doing weekend rides, it's a lot better, nearer 65-70.

Lighter riders (usually women) have got near 80.

Here's my cut down commute. You can get a good impression of the character of the motor and how it likes to be used.

[jbfla]

Originally Posted by Sullybiker

......
Here's my cut down commute. You can get a good impression of the character of the motor and how it likes to be used.

Thanks for the video. That helps a lot.

It didn't seem to have that high-pitched whine, like the large displacement, 4 cylinder sport bikes.

And it seems like your Ninja had plenty of acceleration. I'm wondering if the X-300 could handle the the same 14/42 sprockets.

jb