Rumour: Kawasaki could assemble Z800 in India

Japanese two-wheeler manufacturers such as Honda and Suzuki have already started assembling bikes from CKD kits in India. Now, Kawasaki is reported to be assessing the possibility of assembling the Z800 motorcycle in the country.

In India CKD kits attract a lower import duty than vehicles imported as completely built units (CBU). This enables manufacturers to price their vehicles more competitively. The Z800, which is imported as a completely built unit from Thailand, is priced close to Rs. 8.30 lakh (on-road, Delhi). If Kawasaki starts building the bike in India, the price of the motorcycle is expected to come down by at least Rs. 1,00,000. This will make it cheaper than the locally assembled Honda CBR 650F, which retails at Rs. 7.99 lakh (on-road, Delhi).

The Z800 is powered by an 806 cc, liquid-cooled, fuel-injected, in-line 4-cylinder, 4-stroke engine, developing 113 PS @ 10,200 rpm and 83 Nm of torque @ 8,000 rpm. A 6-speed gearbox transmits this power to the rear wheel.

Source: Autocar Professional