The Indian two-wheeler scene never stands still and this week brings exciting news from two very different corners of the biking world. On one side, Kawasaki’s 2026 Z900 continues its reign in the middleweight naked category with subtle performance and cosmetic upgrades. On the other, Bajaj has strengthened its EV portfolio with a new variant of its retro-styled Chetak electric scooter.
Let’s take a detailed look at what’s new, what’s improved, and whether these latest launches are worth your attention.
2026 Kawasaki Z900 – Power Refined, Price Reduced
The 2026 Kawasaki Z900 carries forward the brand’s “Sugomi” DNA sharp lines, aggressive stance, and the thrilling character that riders have always loved. But this time, Kawasaki has introduced a few changes that make the bike even more appealing.
Engine & Performance
Kawasaki continues with its tried-and-tested 948 cc inline four-cylinder engine, but engineers have fine-tuned it for slightly better output.
Power: 123.6 bhp (up by 1.6 bhp from the 2025 model)
Torque: 98.6 Nm (a minor but noticeable increase)
This improvement, though small on paper, results in smoother acceleration and crisper throttle response. Riders can expect a bit more punch in mid-range performance, which makes highway cruising and overtaking even more effortless.
Price Advantage
One of the most pleasant surprises is the price drop. The new Z900 is priced at ₹9.99 lakh (ex-showroom India) about ₹19,000 less than the outgoing model. In a time when most upgrades come with higher price tags, this move positions Kawasaki as a value-oriented option in the litre-class naked segment.
Design & Colour Updates
While the overall design remains familiar, Kawasaki has introduced two new paint schemes for 2026:
Candy Lime Green with Metallic Carbon Gray
Metallic Matte Graphene Steel Gray with Flat Spark Black
Both shades accentuate the Z900’s muscular tank design and modern LED headlamp setup. The bike still retains its distinctive twin-pod instrument cluster and aggressive body lines, ensuring it remains one of the most visually striking nakeds in the segment.
Key Features (Carried Forward)
Full-LED lighting setup
4.3-inch TFT digital instrument console with Bluetooth connectivity
Dual-channel ABS, traction control, and multiple ride modes
17-inch alloy wheels with grippy radial tyres
High-tensile steel trellis frame
Why Riders Should Care
The Z900 continues to be one of India’s most complete performance nakeds combining everyday usability with track-ready power. With the 2026 updates, Kawasaki has improved refinement and affordability, making it an even more tempting option for enthusiasts upgrading from mid-segment bikes like the MT-07 or CB650R.
New Bajaj Chetak EV Smarter, Wider, and More Affordable
On the electric side of the spectrum, Bajaj Auto has added a new chapter to its Chetak story an EV that blends timeless design with cutting-edge tech. The new Bajaj Chetak 3001 brings a perfect mix of accessibility, practicality, and upgraded range for Indian urban riders.
Performance and Range
The new variant promises an impressive 127 km of range on a single charge, thanks to optimization in the battery pack and software. This makes it ideal for city commuting covering an entire week of rides for most users.
The Chetak continues to deliver smooth and silent performance, with instant torque that makes zipping through traffic easy and fun. Its metal-body design adds durability and gives it a premium look, unlike many plastic-bodied EVs in the market.
Pricing
Bajaj has priced the new Chetak 3001 at ₹99,990 (ex-showroom) making it one of the most accessible premium electric scooters in the country. With this move, Bajaj aims to capture the growing audience looking for a reliable EV under ₹1 lakh without compromising on quality.
Design & Features
While keeping its retro charm alive, Bajaj has made a few smart updates:
Larger under-seat storage
Wider floorboard for better comfort
Improved digital instrument console
LED lighting all around
Refined suspension and braking setup
The scooter runs on the updated Chetak 35 Series platform, which enhances chassis strength and improves ride comfort.
Tech Improvements
The new Chetak EV now supports connected features through the My Chetak mobile app, allowing users to check battery status, charging alerts, and nearby charging stations. Bajaj also offers OTA (Over-the-Air) updates to improve performance and fix bugs seamlessly.
Why It Matters
Bajaj’s approach to the EV market is thoughtful — focusing on long-term quality and user trust rather than rushing frequent updates. The Chetak’s robust build and dependable service network make it a strong competitor to rivals like Ola S1 X, TVS iQube, and Ather 450S.
The Bigger Picture: India’s Two-Wheeler Market Is Diversifying
These two updates one from a Japanese performance brand and another from an Indian EV pioneer show how rapidly the Indian bike market is evolving.
On one side, enthusiasts continue to crave high-revving petrol-powered machines like the Z900.
On the other, everyday commuters are embracing the silent efficiency of EVs like the Chetak.
This diversity is great for consumers: there’s a perfect option now for every kind of rider thrill-seeker or eco-conscious commuter.
Conclusion
If you’re planning to buy a new two-wheeler soon, here’s a quick takeaway:
For thrill lovers: The 2026 Kawasaki Z900 is one of the best-value litre-class streetfighters now available under ₹10 lakh.
For urban commuters: The new Bajaj Chetak 3001 offers affordable, reliable, and stylish electric mobility.
Both launches underline how India’s motorcycle industry is blending performance with practicality, technology with tradition, and speed with sustainability setting the tone for 2026 and beyond.