The latest import and export data details reveal that Kawasaki India has imported a single unit of the BJ250, also called Estrella for research and analysis purposes.
If Kawasaki India goes ahead to launch the Estrella in India, the 250cc motorcycle will be pitched against Royal Enfield's bestseller, the Classic 350. However, there has been no official confirmation from the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer about any possible launch of the Kawasaki Estrella in India.
The retro styled quarter-litre cruiser is powered by a 249cc single-cylinder air-cooled fuel-injected engine that develops 17bhp at 7,500rpm and 18Nm of torque at 5,000rpm mated to five-speed transmission.
The Kawasaki Estrella makes for a visually enticing motorcycle and comes with several striking bits including a neatly contoured fuel tank, elongated single seat, retro styled mudguards and spoke wheels.
The bike also gets some beautiful bits including the chrome finish on the round headlight, indicators and round rear view mirrors. The remainder of the motorcycle is finished in black or chrome (depending on the colour scheme) including the engine and exhaust that completes the retro charm on the cruiser.
Imported as a CBU, the import price of Estrella for R&D is Rs. 4.02 lakh in India. However, should Kawasaki choose to introduce the retro cruiser in the country, the company will bring it via the Completely Knocked Down (CKD) route in a bid to keep the prices competitive.
With local assembly, prices can be expected to be a little over Rs. 3 lakh (ex-showroom). This, however, still turns out to be expensive when compared to locally manufactured models from Royal Enfield. The model though can be seen as a more reliable alternative and a tough competitor to the upcoming Hyosung Aquila 300.
