I have this bike. It accelerates much quicker. He is giving it full throttle at 3000-4000 rpm. in like 3rd gear. Of course it wont pull. It pulls much better. Nothing against Chase at all.
i have a 300 also and it pulls way harder than a 250, i know he can't be banging gears and revving high because its not his but dont say it doesn't pull or full throttle isn't much
New riders have it so good now. 10 years ago when I started riding if you wanted a full fairing starter bike it was the 1980s looking ninja 250. That was it. So my first bike was an R6. Not the best thing for someone with no experience at riding.
I couldn't agree more. I started on an R6 and wish I had something like the ninja 300 or R3 or CBR250 to choose from. Makes you a better rider from the very beginning. Coming from an instructor of 6 years!
Ninja 300 owner here going on two years now. I love everything about it. Life being the reason I am on this so long. But I don't let its lower displacement stop me from having fun. I hang with the bigger bikes. I do not agree with you outgrowing this bike faster. The amount of skill I have learn from this bike is uncanny. I really think it depends of the rider themselves and how much you want to learn. If you are a straight line type rider this bike is not for you. I want to turn and get my knee down.
NinjaBoots Just came home to a brand new Ninja 300 2015 white :) I cant wait to ride this thing should be much better than my klx 250 :P But just a question how tall are you? I feel like my legs might be too big for this bike I'm 6 foot with..... pretty long legs id describe have you ever felt restricted?
Congrats! Great color choice! Iam right at 6ft tall as well. I will say I didn't really much care for the standard seating position out of the gate. I did get used to it and I never really felt like I was restricted in anyway. I did get the Yoshimura rear sets, only to move the footpegs just a tad and lower where my knees would sit. I also installed some Woodcraft clip ons as well.
NinjaBoots Cheers mate yeah there was a black one there but i just love the look of the white one with all the black accents :) Yeah ill keep those things in mind too if I find it to be a bit uncomfortable :) thanks for the help mate :)
I just got my NINJA 300 Today 6-1-2015 over the yamaha r3 that i gad fully intended to get over tge ninja 300 . After sitting on them both thought the Ninja was more comfortable and just felt better to me . Plus mine had the Yoshimura tuned exhaust already on it and it sounded amazing too . I think ima really enjoy this my very 1st ever bike in the NINJA 300 .
At 3:25, you may have been full-throttle, but you really need to use the RPM range to know what a 300/250 is capable of! I'm serious. You probably should have been a gear lower there. You aren't even using half of the range they give you before red line! I'm not saying that your engine should be screaming for every shift from launch, but that is why your launches are so uneventful. Don't treat it like a bigger 4-cylinder! Really flog it and it will give you similar or better street performance at a fraction of the displacement.
^^^^ This. Get her up to 10,000rpm and she takes off. Shifting at redline drops the rpm by a couple thousand too, and this bike is capable of doing 100mph stock. Great little bike.
I was almost screaming when he said it didn't have much more power than the 250 lol, I own a 2013 Ninja 300 SE ABS, the exact bike chase is riding, and the 7,500-10,000 RPM range is it's sweet spot, my friend rides a 2009 Ninja 250 SE and I test rode it for him, and I already had my 300 at the time and the 250 was gutless! I mean it was a complete turd lol. I will upload some videos of me wheeling my 300 when it gets back from the dealership (Recalls :P). In the meantime, I will be riding my CRF 50 Pit Bike lol
I think as he was merging onto the highway he realized this. As he got the bike up in the higher RPMs he lets out a big "Oh wow!" as the engine starts to really shine and has an extra bit of get up.
Nick dood. I've watch you for a while now, I grew up in East Cobb. But man.... you blew this review. I ride this bike everyday in southern california traffic, ya I wish I could afford the supersport insurance and the payments on a 600, but I can't atm, so I'm content on a 300 sport class bike. That being said, not once did you truly let this bike shine in the first 10minutes. Doggin it hard man. When you merged onto the highway you finally started hitting the powerband and you said "whoaaaaaaa" This thing will live all day @ 11k+, it does tend to feel really rung out, but its fun as hell. anyways your stuff is always good keep it up
jdale04 That's what I've heard man. I would love a long term test with this and the R3. Both were great 300's but there's only so much one can test with a little 10-15 min first ride. A longer test would allow me to take them to the mountains and try them out! Maybe one day I'll get that kind of setup and really be able to do an awesome review for you guys!
I agree! Full throttle at 3k-4K RPM's every bike is going to be a dog. Dude...Ride that thing hard! Get those RPM's up! That was painful to watch! And yes...I'm yelling!
im in the same boat as you lol, I've been riding 4 years now and got this a couple months ago, and It's a really fun bike it loves to use it's whole powerband and its so flickable.
I started with the same bike a 2013 kawasaki ninja 300. It was my first bike and I recommended to anyone because at the time I started it felt as it was too much power for me. If you are like me, that one day you woke up and saying I want a bike and went to get one without ever even riding a bike in your life. This is a great bike. It hard for experience riders to get off from a 600 cc or 1000 cc to say a small bike is a good bike because they are already used to the high power bikes.
I started riding my 300 in July and I will be upgrading to a 750 or 1000 in the spring. It has been such a great bike for me. I've learned great throttle control and cornering thanks to its forgiving nature. Being a total newb to motorcycles, there have been times when I would have gotten hurt if I was on a bigger bike. There are other options like the Honda 300, and now the new R3, but nothing beats owning a lime green ninja once in your life.
I bought a 2014 Ninja 300 ABS for my first bike. With a season under my belt, I do feel like upgrading eventually. That being said, I still love riding it! Definitely a solid choice for a beginner, city commuter, or casual rider.
Ninja 300 has more power then your making out like when you said this is full throttle bull shit you was in like 4 gear drop it back to second and go full throttle
Great review Chase. Virgin rider here. 34 y.o. Gettin a new 300 for my girl n me to learn on this year. I got my sights on the Duc Monster 821 but realize I need at least a year to get my bike skills and road skills together first. I may just keep the 300 around for cheap everyday commuting to work etc and have the Duc for the weekends n times I need a small speed n torque fix. Watching all these TH-cam vids like yours make biking seem like so much fun and I'm a super safe "cager" so hopefully that can transfere over to my riding. Again, great channel! Sub. Kawasaki take my money!
I noticed you were never in the power band, and when you do, it accelerates much better. Space0d makes a good point about the cost of bringing the bike up to speed still isn't too expensive. The major point is many riders cannot ride larger bikes, and for them, the shorter seat 300s are exactly what they need long term.
There is another segment of riders that seem to get overlooked. I started riding when I turned 14, in 1963. I will be 67 in a couple months and still ride. There was a time about 20 years ago that I felt competent in the fact I could get on any bike and give a decent accounting of myself. It wouldn't matter if it was a sport bike, an enduro, or a motoross. I manged to go my entire life without getting hurt but do have the aches and pains that come with being my age. I am going to ride Pikes Peak next month and really want something lighter to do it on. I have sold every bike I have except a Gold Wing. On one hand I want to buy a dual sport or an adventure bike, but on the other, I am retired and will be paying cash for whatever I get. I always thought that when I got old that I would be old, but guess what? If you take care of yourself and enjoy life, there isn't any reason to quit doing things as long as you use some sense. In honesty, I think I should completely give up dirt riding. I can't ride aggressively enough today without worrying about crashing. In years past, I never would have even considered something as small as a 600 but today's 600's are faster than 100's used to be. I am thinking of a 300 for a couple reasons. First, it is light so if it tips over I won't get a hernia picking it up and secondly they aren't slow. My first bike was a Honda CB 50 sport. 1963. Look it up. It was the one that looked like a motorcycle, not a scooter. When I turned 16 I got a 305 Super Hawk. It was about as fast as the ninja but handled worse. I rode it from Oklahoma to california and back. I know that it will probably have enough power for me 90% of the time. The main reason I am considering one is that it is a lot more fun going fast on a bike that isn't really fast than one that is fast enough to get you into trouble. Nice video.
C moore I just turned 60 and got my mc license. Never rode before in my life. Picked up a new ninja 300 and honestly don't feel I need more power and I'm still in the break in period. I have some serious spine issues so I prefer the upright seating position on the ninja. Put on an M4 slip on exhaust which sounds and looks so much better than the stock, and is much lighter. I'm 5'8" and 180 lbs. and the bike fits me just perfect. Still in the rank beginner stage, just riding around my development. As soon as I leave my development I'm on a 55 mph road so hopefully soon I'll have the confidence to get out there with traffic.
Just wanted to say thank you for this great, informative video. You helped me decide to get this bike. Today I just bought a 2015 Ninja 300 abs and I love it already. I've only been riding for only a year after buying a broken down 92 ninja 600 and rebuilding it. But, I'm not into speed. I'm in it for the experience. And this bike is all I need. I'm 46 years old and do not feel the need to go faster than this bike will take me. I had come down to the decision between this and a cbr 250. Thank you for helping me to make the right choice.
I have 2015 Ninja 300 ABS for last 5 yrs, I can ride this bike all day! Does it handles highways? Oh YES! Mountain roads? Oh YES! I have exact same 2bros exhaust and also K&N performance filter, run on 91 grade gas, it pulls! Been a few times on Route 33, near the edge of Virginia and West Virginia, where the Spruce Knob is, was following 600 bikes on twisty roads EASY! With a normal riding a do at least 60 MPG, which means: smile per mile :) Well, its 2021 now and Ninja 400's came out already, but if you are thinking to get a N300, go ahead! you wont regret. I seen people still keep it as a second bike, no one wants to sell. This tells a lot of good about N300...Best part - easy and affordable maintenance. Example: you can get on Amazon OEM Kawasaki oil and filter kit for 40$
Went to a dealership and sat on this bike gotta say it is pretty nice for a 300 not to expensive seemed very light. Might be getting this as my first bike.
Right? i started on a 650 then moved to a vulcan 500 and now i have a yamaha r3, not sure the purpose of classifying anything under 600 cc a starter bike.
I don't find more power = more fun. I'd rather have a lightweight bike that I can wring out over a bike I can only get to half of the total rpms without breaking speed limits.. best way to put it is if someone offered me a 600 cc SS bike I'd sell it and get something more fun. ( also I use motorcycles as a daily commuter )
I couldn't agree more. I've personally owned, in this order, a Ninja 650, Ninja 250 and a CBR600RR. I've ridden everything from groms to ZX14's and I consistently have more fun on the smaller bikes. They're just more fun. My next bike is going to be a Ninja 300. If people would realize that 99.9% of riders aren't even remotely skilled enough to push a 600 to it's limits and stop caring about their image, they'd have more fun and even become better riders on the smaller displacement bikes in the sport bike segment.
Glad you did this, Chase! It's hard to look at a bike from the eyes of a beginner when you're so far from that place after years of riding. I like to use my experience as an instructor to help guide my opinions on what actually makes a good starter bike. 30 years ago, a 250cc Sportbike was considered the pinnacle of race-ready and professional-rider-only motorcycles. Seriously, check out articles from motorcycle consumer news in the 1970s and you'll find exactly that sentiment. What has happened over the years, is the technology has increased exponentially, but the human condition has not. Nothing about us has evolved in 30 years to be able to "HANDLE" a 600 or 1000 supersport right out of the starting gate. Outgrowing a bike will only ever happen on a 250 or a 300 out of desire rather than need. No one needs the acceleration capabilities of a 600 or a 1000, but we sure as hell want it. Best to learn how to ride something that matches your skill level before jumping on a bike even the best riders in the world have trouble mastering. Once you've learned to control everything about that 250 or 300, then and only then is upgrading a smart move. With dirt bike experience, and a significant amount at that, I agree that a 650 NON-SUPERSPORT is also a decent choice for a first street bike. Thumbs up!
I love my 300 and honestly could never sell it. I've done so many mods to it and it fits me perfectly. It's like my mini supersport now, same exact riding position with clip-ons and rear set adjusters, among all the other mods I've done to it. Despite having a gsxr 600, I still prefer to ride the 300. It's just so fun and forgiving and you can just do so much with it.
I don't know what's the big deal with the EX250 and the highway. The speed limits in US highways are in the range between 50 and 85. In Atlanta specially it's between 55-65. Drivers can go as high as 80 without driving illegally. The EX250 can comfortably go at those speeds with absolutely no problem. It can go as high as 87MPH without breaking a sweat. You can easily overtake with it, it won't be as fast as overtaking with a 636 but it is doable taking into account that you'll be deep into the powerband going past 50, you won't feel any lack of power. Also, outgrowing a bike? That concept so ingrown in the sportbike community that is ridiculous, practicality is something to be taken into account when deciding to go ride on a bigger or smaller bike. An EX250 is extremely practical as a daily ride on the city. It is small, cheap to run and can go to all places you may need to. An R1 may get you there but, is it practical to ride daily on a bike you'll be using as much as 5% of it's total power to go everywhere? I don't think so.
I love my 2015 300. I've ridden a wide range of sizes but on the mountain roads where I live that flickability you talked about is what sold me on it. (the looks got me to test ride it.) the speed is perfect for me as well. It is fast enough to scratch the itch but not so fast I hit triple digits on accident. (went to jail for that once). I agree it is a great starter bike - also if you spend a lot of time in groups or on the interstate you will eventually want to upgrade. At 2000 miles though as a primarily solo rider on mountain roads I'm not feeling any urge to upgrade yet. I am 5'10 ish and 180 lbs. it fits me perfectly. its a great commuter and adventuring bike and its the most fun I have had on pretty much any bike I have owned. I think for my location and needs I won't be upgrading in a very long time. I have videos if you want to check them out.
I had a 08 ninja 250 and I would def still consider this bike solely on the fuel economy. If I was commuting everyday and it was far distance, this bike would be the one.
but i do have a correction. ive had my 300 for about a year and ive come from a cbr 954 down to this due to certain problems. so after a gap of 3 years i got this bike and the past year has been nothing but amazing, BUT i still am just barely tapping the full potential of this bike on the track. it has so much to offer and the aftermarket support is simply amazing. it obviously depends from person to person but personally ive lost the want to upgrade to a bigger bike after riding this little rocket around the track the past year :)
This bike reminds me of my 1989 VTR 250. Most of the current 250's are single cylinder and make about 20-22hp. The ninja 300 is a straight twin cylinder making about 35hp. My VTR is a v-twin 250 making 30hp. The VTR is my second bike (had a 1979 cx500c before) and I've had it for almost 2 years and I've been riding for 3 years. The great thing about the VTR is while I am ready for a bigger bike, the VTR can still make me smile a lot. I feel like the ninja 300 would be a very similar bike and you wont outgrow it nearly as fast as a 250 (:
The cost plays a huge factor here as well. The 300 MSRPs around $5k new which could be a problem if you have to finance. After you outgrow it, it might be difficult to get out from under the loan after depreciation. Used would be the way to go here for starters, but it you have $5k+ to spend on a bike, look at a 600 (also used). Just my 2 cents.
Definitely not just a starter-bike (unless ya leave it bone stock with those too-high handlebars and wooden-feeling brakes on the non-ABS versions). But, I do sometimes want more power. I've been vlogging on a Ninja 300 since February of 2012. ;) It is a good starter bike, but it doesn't end there. Of course, people can also start bigger. The old 250 is ugly as shit, and *looks* like beginner bike (sounds like one too haha). That 50cc+ with fuel-injection really makes a difference, but I've pumped-up my bike to 40.2 HP from
***** Heya Sam! Yeah, the 300's friction zone is so far from the grip that any short rider (like someone who might buy a 300) might have trouble with it (due to smaller hands and shorter fingers). So, I did two things; I adjusted the friction zone of the clutch (to put it closer to the grip) and the adjustable Pazzo lever lets me physically move the lever closer so that as I release it, I can hit that friction zone within reach of my finger span. When you combine a late friction-zone with lever that is already far from the grip and non-adjustable, it can be a real problem. So, I did those two things; adjust clutch friction zone (first) and then put the Pazzos on. Also, I like having the shorty levers as well.
I started on a ninja 250 for 4 months sold it and I want a 300 now.. I just want a mode of transportation not a rev beast. Some people just want to go to work and back with less risk as a bigger cc engine.. I'm a truck driver so a rev beast would increase the risk of losing my license due to accidents and speeding tickets.
yeah, my buddies who ride keep giving me the excuse that you need to extra hp just in case you get yourself in a muck but honestly, downshifting on a bike will give you higher revs which from what i heard this bike pulls hard on the higher rpms so you will have the extra power needed, no need for a bigger engine
I've been looking for my first bike. I've been riding on some dirt bikes and a couple 250s in the past that weren't mine. This was a very helpful video in my decision-making process. I really appreciate it!!!
Not using rpm shift correctly.....keep saying "you will outgrow" , and "I recommend 600's for all new riders"...... Please if you are going to do reviews.... do not be so one sided. Shifting on the 300 requires at least 8k for the power band to be active..... you were shifting at about 4-5k.... dogging it.... no wonder you had "no power". On doing a review....you must be (in my opinion) a better rider for people to take you seriously, you ride one handed (talk with your hands), even though you feel you are good enough to do that.... it is not recommended in a video. I stopped the video not even a third of the way into it..... and won't watch anymore of your "first ride and reviews" , sorry, but that is the way it is.
It is a slow bike. There is no way around it. He is recommending a sv650. It is probably the best commuter bike for many years. 650s are not supersports bikes. They are tame and over great gas milage, better maintenance schedules than small displacement bikes, and offer better brakes. Ninja 300s are slow, require frequent valve clearance adjustments, bad brakes and horrible tires. It is a beginner bike. It is perfect for that but after a year it makes you want more power. Its like a corolla, at first it seems fast enough and then after a year or two you start wanting a camero.
I don't see where you are getting your information Don..... I have had my ninja300 since jan 2013 and have over 8k on it...and only one "valve adj", that was done because of a maintenance schedule, the next is due at 14k. The 300 is basically the same schedule as the larger kawi's only a smaller displacement. It is still fuel injected and water cooled and gets about 58 to 65 mpg average... a 600 and up will not get that type of gas mileage. Only 8k you say, why? because I own 3 other motorcycles....and I am no "beginner". I have owned monster Harley's and Kawi supersports. I choose the 300 because of its style, weight, handling and fuel consumption. I am taking a trip next month from Ft. Walton Beach Florida to Kerrville Tx to ride the 3 sisters... I am riding it all the way there and back on the 300. I have already gone to North Carolina and rode the dragon, drove all the way there and back also.... on the INTERSTATE...and had no problem with power or speed. Learn to operate a motorcycle to its capacity first.... and then if you feel you need to go faster (the ninja300 will top 110mph) and want a speeding ticket, go ahead... by all means. But don't put out a video and tell young drivers that a 600, 650, 636, 1000 are "better".... because that sir....is your opinion.
***** I'm planning on getting the Ninja 300, I have ridden a DR125sm for a year almost, I have ridden it 4200 km at the moment. Do you think the 300 will be a good upgrade? Asking you since you clearly have some experience on it and have put a lot of time on one. What is the pros and cons about the bike? if you have the time to answer :) Thanks!
***** haha I was thinking about the 500cc also. Great videos man. I'm planning on taking my mtc this summer. I hear the 500cc is a good learner too. I'd like to hear your opinions on it
^ Agreed. Buying a 300 for your first bike is like buying a Miata for your first rear-drive car. Sure it's light and super-easy to control, but something with double the horsepower will only get you in trouble if you can't control yourself. That's not to say you shouldn't get a Miata if you like Miatas. I happen to love Miatas, and I own one, so I could certainly live with a 300cc bike for many years and never feel like upgrading.
GT6SuzukaTimeTrials Good point. I started on a 250, which I absolutely love till this day. However, after riding my friends gsxr 750, I realized the only time you are going to get in trouble is if you give it a WACK of throttle. With that being said, if you think for a second that you might be irresponsible, go with a 250/300. Learn the rules of the road, throttle control, etc. I wouldn't recommend anything higher than a 600cc Supersport for a first bike though. After that, the bike is just way to unforgiving. Any mistake could leave you seriously injured, or dead. Starting on a 600cc can be done, but you have to (HAVE TO) respect the power. Learn how to be smooth on the throttle and the clutch. If you aren't, you are going to be loosing a lot of money, or worse yet, your life. A 250/300 will be a lot more forgiving for minor mistakes. This choice should be made on a person to person basis. One person might be fine on a 600cc, while another might be royally fucked. One more thing, don't think for a second you will get bored of a 250/300. The bike is incredibly fun in the twisties and can actually beat the bigger bikes with an experienced rider.
I'm surprised so many people dislike the Ninja 250. I've been riding my 2005 EX250F since July of last year, and I've had zero genuine complaints about it. When I bought it, the previous owner had re-geared it from the stock 14/45 tooth set-up to 15/45, and it had plenty of power to move. In fact, I topped it out at ~110 MPH (if you compensate for the stock speedo error). I re-geared it to 15/42 (which was a mistake), but it still doesn't have a problem if you keep it in the power band. I think most people just want the quickness of a 600cc bike, and that's where it really falls short; I think the expectations are just too high for the 250cc Ninja. I do know that the newer 250cc Ninjas have a little low-end torque increase, which does hurt the top-end performance, so that may be what people are complaining about? I don't have a problem with my older 250, though. I'll replace it if I move out of the country, or if I wreck it, but I don't have any real plans on selling to to move up. It's perfectly fine for both street and highway riding, though it does leave you desiring you had more top-end when you get on the highway. Not the best performer above 75 MPH, but speed limits in Phoenix don't go beyond 65 MPH until you get pretty far out of the way. The 300, I would assume, would give you a little more top-end to play with, which I would think makes it more desirable; however, I wouldn't overlook the 250 for new riders. My 250 reminds me of my old Civic; plenty of power for getting around, enough extra power to play with, and you can push it to its limits without getting yourself into too much trouble.
HEY I HAVE AN OLD STYLE 07 250 AND ITS B---- nah trust me, we all know how outdated the old 250's are lol. Planning on moving up to a 650 in the next 6 months and to be honest i dont really wanna get rid of my 250 because its so nimble and that makes up for the low power in their own fun way.
1:48 and 4:44 I agree 100%. If you have ANY riding experience whatsoever, you will probably be better off starting with a 600cc bike, or a CBR500R. Most new riders will outgrow a 300cc within 6 months. I suppose 300cc is worth buying if you are not sure you will stay with the sport, and you want to minimize the initial investment. But if you do, then plan on upgrading pretty soon.
Thanks for your opinion Chase! Even when I'm not the one who is riding the bike I still have the feeling that I learn more stuff about bikes in general when I watch your First Ride videos. Nice regards from Germany (;
You just basically sold this bike to me .. Totally getting it in the next 2 weeks ! I love the look and all .. I've never ever in life rode before but I've been really wanting to get into it so bad .. My friends have dirt bikes , banshee's ect .. I've rode those , so hopefully this won't be too challenging when I first hit the streets .. Can't waaaait to start vlogging and hopefully meeting up with you one day , .. Peace
I actually like the sound for what it is too, this will be my first bike come spring, i also love how much they cost used as well and a decent amount of mods to pep it up a tad.
I had a black ninja 300 for my first bike. I put a little over 11,000 miles on it in about 11 months, it was an awesome little starter bike. I rode that thing everywhere even road tripped it from Cleveland to nyc then a week later rode it to dc and that little bike didn't miss a beat.
Hey Chase, great video! I need some advice. So I'm 15 now and I have never rode a bike; not a dirt or anything else. I really want to get into motorcycles. I went to this showroom and was talking to a guy and he said I should buy something that's cheap and older even if I don't like it because I'm probably going to drop it he said. So then what should I get? Also, I don't have a ton of money and I love in PA so I'm debating whether to even get a motorcycle. Anyway, what cheap bike would you recommend me start on? Then what should I go from there? Thanks again Chase, your the best!
Well do what he told you, haha. Depends on what you like, if you like the sport bike kinda thing, get a Ninja 250 to learn on. They're relatively cheap, or pick up an older bike like a Yamaha XS400. I have a 81' XS400. It's a good starter bike just to get your feet wet. For all you know, you may start riding and not like it. Not saying you won't like it, you just don't want to spend a lot on a bike and then not want it.
For my first bike I got a 10 year old CBR600 and I dropped it once, no shame. It doesn't mean it's going to happen to you. But if you buy a older 250 you can ride it for 1 season and get your money back granted you don't really mess it up. I only paid 800$ for mine and put a little bit into it. And I hope to get 600 back for it next spring
Philip McIntosh I bought a 2013 Ninja 300, great starter bike, I am 16 and had never ridden street before. I raced motocross and still ride dirt bikes, and 1,200 miles latter, still love the 300. One thing I like about the 300 is that I can ride it hard, and not be going 160 mph lol. I mean I will be getting a 600 in a year or two, but in the meantime I don't wanna get in trouble with the law haha. I can wheelie my 300 (Gotta ride it right haha) and I am having a blast, has decent power, I find the bikes power to be lacking at 80+ mph. When I wanna pass someone and I am going 70-80, I gotta give plenty of time to get around them. All in all, I think is a great starter bike! And as a bonus, it looks just as sexy as it's bigger brothers!
sitting and riding are 2 completely different aspects bro, but im sure if you're confident, it will be alot easier for you to respect the bikes power and help you utilize the power to your needs
I'm 5'3 and I was sitting on bikes today, I was checking out the 600s and 650s and I ended up walking out in tears because even with the kickstand down on those I was still only able to reach with one foot and I was on my tippy toe. I went to a different shop and I got a flat foot for the 300s and the 500s! So it would be perfect for you if you are 5'4! Anything above 600 was kinda big lol
Kyle Smith Same as any bike. Bikes aren't sold as easily as cars because they're a higher-risk for the finance peeps (they can be stolen more easily, are crashed more-often, etc.), but if you have a credit score of about 620+ you should be ok if you're putting something down on it.
Gave the Ninja 300 another look today,...and have decided on that one! After sitting on the bike,it felt more comfortable to me than the R3,...the mirrors are also better on the Ninja than they are on the R3! The Ninja now has the vote over the R3!
I made my license 3 months ago (Germany, A2: 48hp) and I currently ride my dad's old 1983 Yamaha Sr500 (34hp, I just love the torque at low revs) . Personally I think it's a good idea not to start off with a bike packed with assists like ABS, TC etc. because you learn not to rely on them. In my opinion, if you start riding on a not so perfect, not so technically advanced bike gives you a better and more refined riding technique. But that's just my two cents on that topic.
I want to get a 125cc (because that's the legal limit for 16 year olds) my uncle has a zx12r so I'm just gonna ask him to come with me to get it and bring it home and let them deal with it I just want to be able to ride to school and maybe to the city but that's pretty much it
Went from a 125 to a 600 to a 900 to a Kawasaki Z300 (naked ninja) and I have never had so much fun than on the ninja, absolutely stunning bike, easy handling, can thrash the engine, it looks amazing. For CITY riding in my opinion you do not need more than 300-400cc in a motorcycle.
Hey is it even worth it to do my cbt for the A1 license (125cc max)? or should i just wait till im 20 to get myself a ninja 300, im 18 in 2 months btw.
Ferhat Bozlak It depends. If you really need transport yea. Go for it. But if it can wait , wait. But i did my a1 when i was 16 and i started working and needed transport.
***** Honda is mosly the cheapest . For insurance as wel for some reason. A 250 cbr could serf the porpose. I started on a honda 17 years ago and its still running. So honda is very reliable and usually cheaper than suzuki
I'm one of those guys who started out with the old 250, not like it matters because you normally move up in 6 months to a year. I had never ridden a bike so it was a perfect starter for me. Highly recommended bike for beginners, just buy one used and you wont loose much if anything when you go to sell it in a year.
Nice review video as usual Chase. I know it is fun for you to do and it is fun for us to watch. Have to say maybe you could start doing a vlog on the bike. Then do a short cinematic recap video review at the end to high light the pros and cons. Just a suggestion. Keep up the great work. Would be awesome to see you review the Yamaha R3 when mountain motors can get there hands on one.
As someone whos ridden a bike just to learn on, and has never really owned a bike before, i dont see any negatives to this bike, im deadset on getting this bike even before this video but now its concrete for sure going to get it
I keep going back and forth on the ninja 300 and the cbr 300r... but I have realized I've watched your first rides for the two.... at least 7-8 times... hahahaha
I have this bike and I love it. If you want to cruise and chill its great. If you want to zip around it can do that. All of the power is above 7000 RPM and chase seems to keep it under 5000 for pretty much all of this video.
I own 2013 Ninja 300 ABS all black version. I think it's an amazing starter bike. Very nimble and fun to play with, and it does have plenty of power for the highways. Though to get any performance out of it, you need to allow the RPMs to be in the high range, which is fine cuz it makes it friendly for beginners. It doesn't look small and pathetic which is great and it's enough to impress the ladies which is also great. The only problem I have with mine is an electrical issue which I have yet to get fixed (kills the battery within a month, gone through 5 batteries so far and the dealers are useless).
I ride one of these almost every day and all I can say is it's one hell of a bike. Australia has laws restricting people to small bikes for 3 years, and these things are everywhere, they sell like hotcakes!
I have a 2011 Ninja 250R and I have had it for about 2 years. I am ready for a bigger bike. But I would say I am happy with the 250R. The 250R looks great and the aftermarket parts are cheap. I can learn to knee drag and commute to work every day on it. I love it and I don't see my self getting rid of it anytime soon. One more thing, I ride the highway a lot and i have lots of power. I pass cars all the time.
Looks are important. If youre happy with how your bike looks, you'll be on it more, and you'll learn more. Even just a few years ago, when I started, there wasn't near the choices there are now.
I started off on a Ninja 250. Rode about a year and felt comfortable enough to upgrade to a GSXR 600. Haven't had any issues since. The 250 just wasn't giving me the power I wanted in a bike.
Your review is dead on. I got my 300 last December and I have loved it. It is my first street bike and I have learned a ton about riding and myself. However I am really ready to move up to a bigger cc bike. Also I ride that stretch of the highway you rode on a lot and the bike holds its own.
I got my first bike a couple months ago. I got an 06 Ninja 500. Sure it doesnt have the most sporty styling cuz it looks more like the 250, but I think the engine size is perfect. It theoretically can do 0-60 in 3.7 but doesnt have that jump of power in the upper range of RPMs. Its light and quick enough and i think its the perfect bike for any beginner. I wonder why kawasaki doesnt offer a 500 anymore
Hey man thanks for encouraging words after I got in my accident. I'm back up and riding. Had the Sportster 1200 but traded it in for this 300. I've been riding for awhile and had R6, Daytona 955i, and ZX6. But coming from the Sportster this is pretty fun bike. Yes off the line acceleration isn't the best (esp since I'm still breaking it in) but I can flick it around and hang with highway traffic. Pretty fun little bike for beginners and experienced alike!
I love my 300! :) It's my second bike actually, gonna have it for two years until I can do unrestriced licence. I do think it's a perfect bike for me to learn few things, especially fast corners! (well, as fast as me and the bike allows :))
Was definitely torn between getting a 250 or the 300. With what you said about highway power makes me definitely think the 300 would be the better buy.also have a friend with a 300 and he loves it as well. Thanks. Awesome video
Get a buell xb8s for a first bike, it makes less than a 100 horsepower, doesnt require chain adjustments since it has a belt, service intervals are 18,000 miles. It can cruise at 80 all day and it sounds hella good. The bike also incorporates very unique things that no other bike than a buell has, it out handles 600's as stated by cycleworld and motorcycle magazine, the bars are wide and flat and the bike is easy to ride fast without it going to your head and killing yourself.
I am definitely looking into this bike, I won't be able to ride for 3 more years but I've decided to start saving early. I've ridden little pit bikes and stuff but never a street bike, I'm curious how much this bike used will be in 3 years. Thank you for the review man, I'll definitely look into this bike some more.
Man. I've put 13k miles on my '07 Ninja 250 since last May. Just recently finished an '01 CBR 600f4i project bike and even though I'm having a blast with that, I won't sell my Ninjette. That thing is still a lot of fun. Nice review though. Only reason I'd get a Ninja 300 is to get away from carburetors (meh).
Couldn't agree with you more on most of what you said about the ninja 300. I know a guy who owns an r1 and a ninja 300, his daily ride is the 300 because it has the power for day to day use, but it isn't enough to lose his licence unlike the r1. My first bike was a kymco ck125 & it was a piece of shit!! After owning it for 18months it wasn't confidence building. I upgraded to the 300 and after 6 months i upgraded to a zx6r without issue because of the confidence riding the 300 gives you. As a first bike for those that haven't ridden the ninja 300 is perfect. my gf is learning on it now and she's doing amazing. If you can ride and have some skill then I'd go for a bigger bike, not an r6 or zx6r but a ninja 600 or a bike like that because if you can ride you will grow out of the ninja 300 real quick like I did but you will have a lot of fun doing so. I also found it interesting you were talking about the engine being kinda whatever, full throttle no bite, if you were in a lower gear and had the revs about 10k and pulled the throttle, different story. You noticed that when getting on the highway and the revs were up.
Rode a ninja 250 for five years, upgraded to a cbr600, wanted my 250 back within days. It's all personal preference.
I have this bike. It accelerates much quicker. He is giving it full throttle at 3000-4000 rpm. in like 3rd gear. Of course it wont pull. It pulls much better. Nothing against Chase at all.
Agree! All the power is up high
yeah, it is just cuz he doesn't want to rev too high the new bikes that aren't even his
+Jonathan Bauer exactly.......
i have a 300 also and it pulls way harder than a 250, i know he can't be banging gears and revving high because its not his but dont say it doesn't pull or full throttle isn't much
ii was thinking the same thing i was lie does he not know the powerband is up top...he would shift it every time right before the power kicked in
New riders have it so good now. 10 years ago when I started riding if you wanted a full fairing starter bike it was the 1980s looking ninja 250. That was it. So my first bike was an R6. Not the best thing for someone with no experience at riding.
Agreed
PS: Hope your leg heals quickly and you feel better soon!
r6? i thought it was an r1
I couldn't agree more. I started on an R6 and wish I had something like the ninja 300 or R3 or CBR250 to choose from. Makes you a better rider from the very beginning. Coming from an instructor of 6 years!
Jake when did the Docs say you'd be on 2 wheels again?
But they did have in-line 4 cylinders.
Ninja 300 owner here going on two years now. I love everything about it. Life being the reason I am on this so long. But I don't let its lower displacement stop me from having fun. I hang with the bigger bikes.
I do not agree with you outgrowing this bike faster. The amount of skill I have learn from this bike is uncanny. I really think it depends of the rider themselves and how much you want to learn. If you are a straight line type rider this bike is not for you. I want to turn and get my knee down.
NinjaBoots Just came home to a brand new Ninja 300 2015 white :) I cant wait to ride this thing should be much better than my klx 250 :P But just a question how tall are you? I feel like my legs might be too big for this bike I'm 6 foot with..... pretty long legs id describe have you ever felt restricted?
Congrats! Great color choice! Iam right at 6ft tall as well. I will say I didn't really much care for the standard seating position out of the gate. I did get used to it and I never really felt like I was restricted in anyway. I did get the Yoshimura rear sets, only to move the footpegs just a tad and lower where my knees would sit. I also installed some Woodcraft clip ons as well.
NinjaBoots Cheers mate yeah there was a black one there but i just love the look of the white one with all the black accents :) Yeah ill keep those things in mind too if I find it to be a bit uncomfortable :) thanks for the help mate :)
No problem. Safe riding!
I just got my NINJA 300 Today 6-1-2015 over the yamaha r3 that i gad fully intended to get over tge ninja 300 .
After sitting on them both thought the Ninja was more comfortable and just felt better to me . Plus mine had the Yoshimura tuned exhaust already on it and it sounded amazing too .
I think ima really enjoy this my very 1st ever bike in the NINJA 300 .
At 3:25, you may have been full-throttle, but you really need to use the RPM range to know what a 300/250 is capable of! I'm serious. You probably should have been a gear lower there. You aren't even using half of the range they give you before red line! I'm not saying that your engine should be screaming for every shift from launch, but that is why your launches are so uneventful. Don't treat it like a bigger 4-cylinder! Really flog it and it will give you similar or better street performance at a fraction of the displacement.
^^^^ This. Get her up to 10,000rpm and she takes off. Shifting at redline drops the rpm by a couple thousand too, and this bike is capable of doing 100mph stock. Great little bike.
I was almost screaming when he said it didn't have much more power than the 250 lol, I own a 2013 Ninja 300 SE ABS, the exact bike chase is riding, and the 7,500-10,000 RPM range is it's sweet spot, my friend rides a 2009 Ninja 250 SE and I test rode it for him, and I already had my 300 at the time and the 250 was gutless! I mean it was a complete turd lol. I will upload some videos of me wheeling my 300 when it gets back from the dealership (Recalls :P). In the meantime, I will be riding my CRF 50 Pit Bike lol
I think as he was merging onto the highway he realized this. As he got the bike up in the higher RPMs he lets out a big "Oh wow!" as the engine starts to really shine and has an extra bit of get up.
CRYZ the reason he said it was probably since going from 250 to 300 dosnt feel that special when he is normally driving a 600
***** Yup. My "ugly" 2006 is all good above 9000, best above 10000...
Chase: I don't think anyone keeps a ninja 300 for 3 to 4 years.
This Life Riding: Hold my beer.
lol
You're right,people keep it for much longer
Yaa he is too good rider
I've had my 300 for 3 yrs now
@@jsears5593I’ve had mine for 7 years now.
Nick dood. I've watch you for a while now, I grew up in East Cobb. But man.... you blew this review. I ride this bike everyday in southern california traffic, ya I wish I could afford the supersport insurance and the payments on a 600, but I can't atm, so I'm content on a 300 sport class bike. That being said, not once did you truly let this bike shine in the first 10minutes. Doggin it hard man. When you merged onto the highway you finally started hitting the powerband and you said "whoaaaaaaa"
This thing will live all day @ 11k+, it does tend to feel really rung out, but its fun as hell.
anyways your stuff is always good keep it up
jdale04 That's what I've heard man. I would love a long term test with this and the R3. Both were great 300's but there's only so much one can test with a little 10-15 min first ride. A longer test would allow me to take them to the mountains and try them out! Maybe one day I'll get that kind of setup and really be able to do an awesome review for you guys!
I agree! Full throttle at 3k-4K RPM's every bike is going to be a dog. Dude...Ride that thing hard! Get those RPM's up! That was painful to watch! And yes...I'm yelling!
agreed, 6k up, different story
Is the powerband similar to say a Civic Si, where the power is at the top? Also, how fast is this bike compared to a car? Is it as fast as a 350z?
im in the same boat as you lol, I've been riding 4 years now and got this a couple months ago, and It's a really fun bike it loves to use it's whole powerband and its so flickable.
I started with the same bike a 2013 kawasaki ninja 300. It was my first bike and I recommended to anyone because at the time I started it felt as it was too much power for me. If you are like me, that one day you woke up and saying I want a bike and went to get one without ever even riding a bike in your life. This is a great bike. It hard for experience riders to get off from a 600 cc or 1000 cc to say a small bike is a good bike because they are already used to the high power bikes.
I started riding my 300 in July and I will be upgrading to a 750 or 1000 in the spring. It has been such a great bike for me. I've learned great throttle control and cornering thanks to its forgiving nature. Being a total newb to motorcycles, there have been times when I would have gotten hurt if I was on a bigger bike.
There are other options like the Honda 300, and now the new R3, but nothing beats owning a lime green ninja once in your life.
I bought a 2014 Ninja 300 ABS for my first bike. With a season under my belt, I do feel like upgrading eventually. That being said, I still love riding it! Definitely a solid choice for a beginner, city commuter, or casual rider.
+Zac Gamble How much did you pay?
$3,000 plus fees and taxes associated. (It was pre-owned so I got a better price).
Ninja 300 has more power then your making out like when you said this is full throttle bull shit you was in like 4 gear drop it back to second and go full throttle
Exactly what i was gonna comment
Great review Chase. Virgin rider here. 34 y.o. Gettin a new 300 for my girl n me to learn on this year. I got my sights on the Duc Monster 821 but realize I need at least a year to get my bike skills and road skills together first. I may just keep the 300 around for cheap everyday commuting to work etc and have the Duc for the weekends n times I need a small speed n torque fix. Watching all these TH-cam vids like yours make biking seem like so much fun and I'm a super safe "cager" so hopefully that can transfere over to my riding. Again, great channel! Sub. Kawasaki take my money!
I noticed you were never in the power band, and when you do, it accelerates much better. Space0d makes a good point about the cost of bringing the bike up to speed still isn't too expensive. The major point is many riders cannot ride larger bikes, and for them, the shorter seat 300s are exactly what they need long term.
not tall riders
There is another segment of riders that seem to get overlooked. I started riding when I turned 14, in 1963. I will be 67 in a couple months and still ride. There was a time about 20 years ago that I felt competent in the fact I could get on any bike and give a decent accounting of myself. It wouldn't matter if it was a sport bike, an enduro, or a motoross. I manged to go my entire life without getting hurt but do have the aches and pains that come with being my age. I am going to ride Pikes Peak next month and really want something lighter to do it on. I have sold every bike I have except a Gold Wing. On one hand I want to buy a dual sport or an adventure bike, but on the other, I am retired and will be paying cash for whatever I get. I always thought that when I got old that I would be old, but guess what? If you take care of yourself and enjoy life, there isn't any reason to quit doing things as long as you use some sense. In honesty, I think I should completely give up dirt riding. I can't ride aggressively enough today without worrying about crashing. In years past, I never would have even considered something as small as a 600 but today's 600's are faster than 100's used to be. I am thinking of a 300 for a couple reasons. First, it is light so if it tips over I won't get a hernia picking it up and secondly they aren't slow. My first bike was a Honda CB 50 sport. 1963. Look it up. It was the one that looked like a motorcycle, not a scooter. When I turned 16 I got a 305 Super Hawk. It was about as fast as the ninja but handled worse. I rode it from Oklahoma to california and back. I know that it will probably have enough power for me 90% of the time. The main reason I am considering one is that it is a lot more fun going fast on a bike that isn't really fast than one that is fast enough to get you into trouble. Nice video.
Also, most people buy way more bike than they need. I have taken long trips on underpwered bikes and never really had a problem.
C moore I just turned 60 and got my mc license. Never rode before in my life. Picked up a new ninja 300 and honestly don't feel I need more power and I'm still in the break in period. I have some serious spine issues so I prefer the upright seating position on the ninja. Put on an M4 slip on exhaust which sounds and looks so much better than the stock, and is much lighter. I'm 5'8" and 180 lbs. and the bike fits me just perfect. Still in the rank beginner stage, just riding around my development. As soon as I leave my development I'm on a 55 mph road so hopefully soon I'll have the confidence to get out there with traffic.
Just wanted to say thank you for this great, informative video. You helped me decide to get this bike. Today I just bought a 2015 Ninja 300 abs and I love it already. I've only been riding for only a year after buying a broken down 92 ninja 600 and rebuilding it. But, I'm not into speed. I'm in it for the experience. And this bike is all I need. I'm 46 years old and do not feel the need to go faster than this bike will take me. I had come down to the decision between this and a cbr 250. Thank you for helping me to make the right choice.
Great choice . Same as me
I have 2015 Ninja 300 ABS for last 5 yrs, I can ride this bike all day! Does it handles highways? Oh YES! Mountain roads? Oh YES! I have exact same 2bros exhaust and also K&N performance filter, run on 91 grade gas, it pulls! Been a few times on Route 33, near the edge of Virginia and West Virginia, where the Spruce Knob is, was following 600 bikes on twisty roads EASY! With a normal riding a do at least 60 MPG, which means: smile per mile :) Well, its 2021 now and Ninja 400's came out already, but if you are thinking to get a N300, go ahead! you wont regret. I seen people still keep it as a second bike, no one wants to sell. This tells a lot of good about N300...Best part - easy and affordable maintenance. Example: you can get on Amazon OEM Kawasaki oil and filter kit for 40$
Went to a dealership and sat on this bike gotta say it is pretty nice for a 300 not to expensive seemed very light. Might be getting this as my first bike.
i wish ppl would stop calling anything less than a 600cc a starter bike.
Right? i started on a 650 then moved to a vulcan 500 and now i have a yamaha r3, not sure the purpose of classifying anything under 600 cc a starter bike.
I don't find more power = more fun. I'd rather have a lightweight bike that I can wring out over a bike I can only get to half of the total rpms without breaking speed limits.. best way to put it is if someone offered me a 600 cc SS bike I'd sell it and get something more fun. ( also I use motorcycles as a daily commuter )
Yeah, I live in an area full of hills and never have any issues with it. Even while carrying a passenger :p
.
I couldn't agree more. I've personally owned, in this order, a Ninja 650, Ninja 250 and a CBR600RR. I've ridden everything from groms to ZX14's and I consistently have more fun on the smaller bikes. They're just more fun. My next bike is going to be a Ninja 300.
If people would realize that 99.9% of riders aren't even remotely skilled enough to push a 600 to it's limits and stop caring about their image, they'd have more fun and even become better riders on the smaller displacement bikes in the sport bike segment.
Glad you did this, Chase! It's hard to look at a bike from the eyes of a beginner when you're so far from that place after years of riding. I like to use my experience as an instructor to help guide my opinions on what actually makes a good starter bike.
30 years ago, a 250cc Sportbike was considered the pinnacle of race-ready and professional-rider-only motorcycles. Seriously, check out articles from motorcycle consumer news in the 1970s and you'll find exactly that sentiment. What has happened over the years, is the technology has increased exponentially, but the human condition has not. Nothing about us has evolved in 30 years to be able to "HANDLE" a 600 or 1000 supersport right out of the starting gate. Outgrowing a bike will only ever happen on a 250 or a 300 out of desire rather than need. No one needs the acceleration capabilities of a 600 or a 1000, but we sure as hell want it. Best to learn how to ride something that matches your skill level before jumping on a bike even the best riders in the world have trouble mastering. Once you've learned to control everything about that 250 or 300, then and only then is upgrading a smart move. With dirt bike experience, and a significant amount at that, I agree that a 650 NON-SUPERSPORT is also a decent choice for a first street bike.
Thumbs up!
I love my 300 and honestly could never sell it. I've done so many mods to it and it fits me perfectly. It's like my mini supersport now, same exact riding position with clip-ons and rear set adjusters, among all the other mods I've done to it. Despite having a gsxr 600, I still prefer to ride the 300. It's just so fun and forgiving and you can just do so much with it.
MichaelV I know someone personally who sold his 300, bought an FZ-07 and is now buying a 300 again! :D He's a good rider too.
***** What are his reasons for going back to 300 after FZ07?
MD Geist
He probably misses the lightness and flickability on his favorite backroads.
@@spacep0d plus that dash on it is just plain gorgeous. Very sharp ride
I don't know what's the big deal with the EX250 and the highway. The speed limits in US highways are in the range between 50 and 85. In Atlanta specially it's between 55-65. Drivers can go as high as 80 without driving illegally. The EX250 can comfortably go at those speeds with absolutely no problem. It can go as high as 87MPH without breaking a sweat. You can easily overtake with it, it won't be as fast as overtaking with a 636 but it is doable taking into account that you'll be deep into the powerband going past 50, you won't feel any lack of power.
Also, outgrowing a bike? That concept so ingrown in the sportbike community that is ridiculous, practicality is something to be taken into account when deciding to go ride on a bigger or smaller bike. An EX250 is extremely practical as a daily ride on the city. It is small, cheap to run and can go to all places you may need to. An R1 may get you there but, is it practical to ride daily on a bike you'll be using as much as 5% of it's total power to go everywhere? I don't think so.
I love my 2015 300. I've ridden a wide range of sizes but on the mountain roads where I live that flickability you talked about is what sold me on it. (the looks got me to test ride it.) the speed is perfect for me as well. It is fast enough to scratch the itch but not so fast I hit triple digits on accident. (went to jail for that once). I agree it is a great starter bike - also if you spend a lot of time in groups or on the interstate you will eventually want to upgrade. At 2000 miles though as a primarily solo rider on mountain roads I'm not feeling any urge to upgrade yet. I am 5'10 ish and 180 lbs. it fits me perfectly. its a great commuter and adventuring bike and its the most fun I have had on pretty much any bike I have owned. I think for my location and needs I won't be upgrading in a very long time. I have videos if you want to check them out.
I've actually had this bike recommended to me a few times now for a good starter
get it
I had a 08 ninja 250 and I would def still consider this bike solely on the fuel economy. If I was commuting everyday and it was far distance, this bike would be the one.
but i do have a correction. ive had my 300 for about a year and ive come from a cbr 954 down to this due to certain problems. so after a gap of 3 years i got this bike and the past year has been nothing but amazing, BUT i still am just barely tapping the full potential of this bike on the track. it has so much to offer and the aftermarket support is simply amazing. it obviously depends from person to person but personally ive lost the want to upgrade to a bigger bike after riding this little rocket around the track the past year :)
This bike reminds me of my 1989 VTR 250. Most of the current 250's are single cylinder and make about 20-22hp. The ninja 300 is a straight twin cylinder making about 35hp. My VTR is a v-twin 250 making 30hp. The VTR is my second bike (had a 1979 cx500c before) and I've had it for almost 2 years and I've been riding for 3 years. The great thing about the VTR is while I am ready for a bigger bike, the VTR can still make me smile a lot. I feel like the ninja 300 would be a very similar bike and you wont outgrow it nearly as fast as a 250 (:
The cost plays a huge factor here as well. The 300 MSRPs around $5k new which could be a problem if you have to finance. After you outgrow it, it might be difficult to get out from under the loan after depreciation. Used would be the way to go here for starters, but it you have $5k+ to spend on a bike, look at a 600 (also used). Just my 2 cents.
Definitely not just a starter-bike (unless ya leave it bone stock with those too-high handlebars and wooden-feeling brakes on the non-ABS versions). But, I do sometimes want more power. I've been vlogging on a Ninja 300 since February of 2012. ;) It is a good starter bike, but it doesn't end there. Of course, people can also start bigger.
The old 250 is ugly as shit, and *looks* like beginner bike (sounds like one too haha).
That 50cc+ with fuel-injection really makes a difference, but I've pumped-up my bike to 40.2 HP from
*****
Heya Sam!
Yeah, the 300's friction zone is so far from the grip that any short rider (like someone who might buy a 300) might have trouble with it (due to smaller hands and shorter fingers).
So, I did two things; I adjusted the friction zone of the clutch (to put it closer to the grip) and the adjustable Pazzo lever lets me physically move the lever closer so that as I release it, I can hit that friction zone within reach of my finger span. When you combine a late friction-zone with lever that is already far from the grip and non-adjustable, it can be a real problem.
So, I did those two things; adjust clutch friction zone (first) and then put the Pazzos on. Also, I like having the shorty levers as well.
***** I'm about 6 foot, but I really want one of these. Will I still be able to sit comfortably?
***** How short are you? I'm 5'5" and I"m curious.
kLPantera
5'3".
+kLPantera that's a great height for this bike, not sure why people 6 foot plus , even think about a 300
Without a doubt the ninja 1400 is the best bike for starting
yeah, for super saiyans like us
No, the 14r is still too slow for normal highway speeds. A turbo ZX-14r is really the perfect starter bike in my opinion
Ive been debating on either an R3 or Ninja 300 as a starter bike, and these first rides have been helpful. Thanks man!
I started on a ninja 250 for 4 months sold it and I want a 300 now.. I just want a mode of transportation not a rev beast. Some people just want to go to work and back with less risk as a bigger cc engine.. I'm a truck driver so a rev beast would increase the risk of losing my license due to accidents and speeding tickets.
yeah, my buddies who ride keep giving me the excuse that you need to extra hp just in case you get yourself in a muck but honestly, downshifting on a bike will give you higher revs which from what i heard this bike pulls hard on the higher rpms so you will have the extra power needed, no need for a bigger engine
FROMSCLA get a litter bike
I've been looking for my first bike. I've been riding on some dirt bikes and a couple 250s in the past that weren't mine. This was a very helpful video in my decision-making process. I really appreciate it!!!
@ 13:40...
you found where the extra 50cc went 😏
Hmm...maybe that extra 50cc is like a guardian angel, and comes when you need her the most 😂
I love his thought process on the highway, in his head he's like "oh shit holy fuck"
Thinking about getting a 2014/2015 ninja 300 in may, super excited since it'll be my first bike. Pretty straight foward review, great job chase :)
Not using rpm shift correctly.....keep saying "you will outgrow" , and "I recommend 600's for all new riders"...... Please if you are going to do reviews.... do not be so one sided.
Shifting on the 300 requires at least 8k for the power band to be active..... you were shifting at about 4-5k.... dogging it.... no wonder you had "no power".
On doing a review....you must be (in my opinion) a better rider for people to take you seriously, you ride one handed (talk with your hands), even though you feel you are good enough to do that.... it is not recommended in a video.
I stopped the video not even a third of the way into it..... and won't watch anymore of your "first ride and reviews" , sorry, but that is the way it is.
It is a slow bike. There is no way around it. He is recommending a sv650. It is probably the best commuter bike for many years. 650s are not supersports bikes. They are tame and over great gas milage, better maintenance schedules than small displacement bikes, and offer better brakes.
Ninja 300s are slow, require frequent valve clearance adjustments, bad brakes and horrible tires. It is a beginner bike. It is perfect for that but after a year it makes you want more power. Its like a corolla, at first it seems fast enough and then after a year or two you start wanting a camero.
I don't see where you are getting your information Don..... I have had my ninja300 since jan 2013 and have over 8k on it...and only one "valve adj", that was done because of a maintenance schedule, the next is due at 14k. The 300 is basically the same schedule as the larger kawi's only a smaller displacement. It is still fuel injected and water cooled and gets about 58 to 65 mpg average... a 600 and up will not get that type of gas mileage. Only 8k you say, why? because I own 3 other motorcycles....and I am no "beginner". I have owned monster Harley's and Kawi supersports. I choose the 300 because of its style, weight, handling and fuel consumption.
I am taking a trip next month from Ft. Walton Beach Florida to Kerrville Tx to ride the 3 sisters... I am riding it all the way there and back on the 300. I have already gone to North Carolina and rode the dragon, drove all the way there and back also.... on the INTERSTATE...and had no problem with power or speed.
Learn to operate a motorcycle to its capacity first.... and then if you feel you need to go faster (the ninja300 will top 110mph) and want a speeding ticket, go ahead... by all means. But don't put out a video and tell young drivers that a 600, 650, 636, 1000 are "better".... because that sir....is your opinion.
***** I'm planning on getting the Ninja 300, I have ridden a DR125sm for a year almost, I have ridden it 4200 km at the moment. Do you think the 300 will be a good upgrade? Asking you since you clearly have some experience on it and have put a lot of time on one.
What is the pros and cons about the bike? if you have the time to answer :)
Thanks!
***** Thank you so much! That settled it! A ninja 300 it is haha! The explanation was perfect, just what I was looking for! Ride safe mate! :)
billmcgraw1959 and hes on repeat all the time. he literally just repeats what hes saying over and over again
Been waiting for this for quite a while. So excited.
Could you do a CBR500R review? Thanks!
Alex Hall I'll add it to my list!
***** haha I was thinking about the 500cc also. Great videos man. I'm planning on taking my mtc this summer. I hear the 500cc is a good learner too. I'd like to hear your opinions on it
Mark A just buy a 600, you wont regret it. respect the power, the things are a lot easier to drive than people make it out to be
^ Agreed. Buying a 300 for your first bike is like buying a Miata for your first rear-drive car. Sure it's light and super-easy to control, but something with double the horsepower will only get you in trouble if you can't control yourself. That's not to say you shouldn't get a Miata if you like Miatas. I happen to love Miatas, and I own one, so I could certainly live with a 300cc bike for many years and never feel like upgrading.
GT6SuzukaTimeTrials Good point. I started on a 250, which I absolutely love till this day. However, after riding my friends gsxr 750, I realized the only time you are going to get in trouble is if you give it a WACK of throttle.
With that being said, if you think for a second that you might be irresponsible, go with a 250/300. Learn the rules of the road, throttle control, etc.
I wouldn't recommend anything higher than a 600cc Supersport for a first bike though. After that, the bike is just way to unforgiving. Any mistake could leave you seriously injured, or dead.
Starting on a 600cc can be done, but you have to (HAVE TO) respect the power. Learn how to be smooth on the throttle and the clutch. If you aren't, you are going to be loosing a lot of money, or worse yet, your life. A 250/300 will be a lot more forgiving for minor mistakes. This choice should be made on a person to person basis. One person might be fine on a 600cc, while another might be royally fucked.
One more thing, don't think for a second you will get bored of a 250/300. The bike is incredibly fun in the twisties and can actually beat the bigger bikes with an experienced rider.
I'm surprised so many people dislike the Ninja 250. I've been riding my 2005 EX250F since July of last year, and I've had zero genuine complaints about it. When I bought it, the previous owner had re-geared it from the stock 14/45 tooth set-up to 15/45, and it had plenty of power to move. In fact, I topped it out at ~110 MPH (if you compensate for the stock speedo error). I re-geared it to 15/42 (which was a mistake), but it still doesn't have a problem if you keep it in the power band. I think most people just want the quickness of a 600cc bike, and that's where it really falls short; I think the expectations are just too high for the 250cc Ninja. I do know that the newer 250cc Ninjas have a little low-end torque increase, which does hurt the top-end performance, so that may be what people are complaining about? I don't have a problem with my older 250, though.
I'll replace it if I move out of the country, or if I wreck it, but I don't have any real plans on selling to to move up. It's perfectly fine for both street and highway riding, though it does leave you desiring you had more top-end when you get on the highway. Not the best performer above 75 MPH, but speed limits in Phoenix don't go beyond 65 MPH until you get pretty far out of the way. The 300, I would assume, would give you a little more top-end to play with, which I would think makes it more desirable; however, I wouldn't overlook the 250 for new riders. My 250 reminds me of my old Civic; plenty of power for getting around, enough extra power to play with, and you can push it to its limits without getting yourself into too much trouble.
Id love to hear what you think about the CBR 300R in comparison to this bike
cbr less power better brakes and handling
11:42 dude that train man, so trippy. looked like a building was moving when you made that u turn
HEY I HAVE AN OLD STYLE 07 250 AND ITS B---- nah trust me, we all know how outdated the old 250's are lol. Planning on moving up to a 650 in the next 6 months and to be honest i dont really wanna get rid of my 250 because its so nimble and that makes up for the low power in their own fun way.
1:48 and 4:44 I agree 100%. If you have ANY riding experience whatsoever, you will probably be better off starting with a 600cc bike, or a CBR500R. Most new riders will outgrow a 300cc within 6 months. I suppose 300cc is worth buying if you are not sure you will stay with the sport, and you want to minimize the initial investment. But if you do, then plan on upgrading pretty soon.
Anyone new rider who professes to have outgrown a 300 in 6 months has no clue what they're talking about.
I'm gunna hold off until the r3 comes out then I will make a move
thegonch101 The R3 is super high on my priority list to test out for you guys. I'll be on one the second it hits my dealer.
***** Thanks man for the effort cant wait to see it !
***** Any chance you could also hit up a cbr500r too? Then you could hit us with a final thought on the beginner bikes. A guy can dream, right?
Thanks for your opinion Chase! Even when I'm not the one who is riding the bike I still have the feeling that I learn more stuff about bikes in general when I watch your First Ride videos.
Nice regards from Germany (;
Why don't you test the RC 390 or the Duke 390??
You just basically sold this bike to me .. Totally getting it in the next 2 weeks ! I love the look and all .. I've never ever in life rode before but I've been really wanting to get into it so bad .. My friends have dirt bikes , banshee's ect .. I've rode those , so hopefully this won't be too challenging when I first hit the streets .. Can't waaaait to start vlogging and hopefully meeting up with you one day , .. Peace
since this is a starters bike, they realy should have add a gear indicator...
MrPaperclip82 no one needs a gear indicator...
I actually like the sound for what it is too, this will be my first bike come spring, i also love how much they cost used as well and a decent amount of mods to pep it up a tad.
im 5'4 would i be able to ride this bike?
Yeah u can also get it dropped lower
I had a black ninja 300 for my first bike. I put a little over 11,000 miles on it in about 11 months, it was an awesome little starter bike. I rode that thing everywhere even road tripped it from Cleveland to nyc then a week later rode it to dc and that little bike didn't miss a beat.
Hey Chase, great video! I need some advice. So I'm 15 now and I have never rode a bike; not a dirt or anything else. I really want to get into motorcycles. I went to this showroom and was talking to a guy and he said I should buy something that's cheap and older even if I don't like it because I'm probably going to drop it he said. So then what should I get? Also, I don't have a ton of money and I love in PA so I'm debating whether to even get a motorcycle. Anyway, what cheap bike would you recommend me start on? Then what should I go from there? Thanks again Chase, your the best!
Well do what he told you, haha. Depends on what you like, if you like the sport bike kinda thing, get a Ninja 250 to learn on. They're relatively cheap, or pick up an older bike like a Yamaha XS400. I have a 81' XS400. It's a good starter bike just to get your feet wet. For all you know, you may start riding and not like it. Not saying you won't like it, you just don't want to spend a lot on a bike and then not want it.
David F. Alright thanks!
For my first bike I got a 10 year old CBR600 and I dropped it once, no shame. It doesn't mean it's going to happen to you. But if you buy a older 250 you can ride it for 1 season and get your money back granted you don't really mess it up. I only paid 800$ for mine and put a little bit into it. And I hope to get 600 back for it next spring
cschultz1711 Awesome thanks!
Philip McIntosh
I bought a 2013 Ninja 300, great starter bike, I am 16 and had never ridden street before. I raced motocross and still ride dirt bikes, and 1,200 miles latter, still love the 300. One thing I like about the 300 is that I can ride it hard, and not be going 160 mph lol. I mean I will be getting a 600 in a year or two, but in the meantime I don't wanna get in trouble with the law haha. I can wheelie my 300 (Gotta ride it right haha) and I am having a blast, has decent power, I find the bikes power to be lacking at 80+ mph. When I wanna pass someone and I am going 70-80, I gotta give plenty of time to get around them. All in all, I think is a great starter bike! And as a bonus, it looks just as sexy as it's bigger brothers!
I love updated looks the ninja received. I'll gladly take the 300 and perfectly happy with it as my current ride is a 49cc super pocket rocket.
I'm 5'4 and weight 140, i have my mind set on buying a sport bike. I'm primarily looking into getting an R3, any better ideas.
I'm purely a beginner.
DAVID ARAUJOLOPEZ 8325 2017.
i want the 2016 CBR500R. i went to the Honda dealership and sat on one, and i gotta say, I was not intimated by it.
sitting and riding are 2 completely different aspects bro, but im sure if you're confident, it will be alot easier for you to respect the bikes power and help you utilize the power to your needs
I'm 5'3 and I was sitting on bikes today, I was checking out the 600s and 650s and I ended up walking out in tears because even with the kickstand down on those I was still only able to reach with one foot and I was on my tippy toe. I went to a different shop and I got a flat foot for the 300s and the 500s! So it would be perfect for you if you are 5'4! Anything above 600 was kinda big lol
How hard is it to buy one at a dealer ship? Like credit status etc...
Kyle Smith Same as any bike. Bikes aren't sold as easily as cars because they're a higher-risk for the finance peeps (they can be stolen more easily, are crashed more-often, etc.), but if you have a credit score of about 620+ you should be ok if you're putting something down on it.
Kyle Smith Bikes are easy to purchase, i would be more worried about your insurance charges. Luckily for this model, insurance was very doable for me.
I See Tenzins Everywhere I actually purchased one about a week ago. Insurance was only $125 for the whole year with full coverage. :)
Kyle Smith :O . Mind if i ask how old and where you are? I pay 89$ for only liability from geico.
I See Tenzins Everywhere Im 24 and live in louisiana. Is that a $89 a month?
Gave the Ninja 300 another look today,...and have decided on that one! After sitting on the bike,it felt more comfortable to me than the R3,...the mirrors are also better on the Ninja than they are on the R3! The Ninja now has the vote over the R3!
Ninja 300 or yamahaR3 ? Whatsbetter
nearly all other sportbikes
i have a ninja and my friend has a r3 and his is quicker
I made my license 3 months ago (Germany, A2: 48hp) and I currently ride my dad's old 1983 Yamaha Sr500 (34hp, I just love the torque at low revs) . Personally I think it's a good idea not to start off with a bike packed with assists like ABS, TC etc. because you learn not to rely on them. In my opinion, if you start riding on a not so perfect, not so technically advanced bike gives you a better and more refined riding technique. But that's just my two cents on that topic.
Any ideas of how I can persuade my parents into letting me buy a bike?
Say you will not ride on highway, just for cruising and won't speed
+Nick Honestly, just wait until you move out and you can pay for it yourself. Good luck!
I want to get a 125cc (because that's the legal limit for 16 year olds) my uncle has a zx12r so I'm just gonna ask him to come with me to get it and bring it home and let them deal with it I just want to be able to ride to school and maybe to the city but that's pretty much it
+MagicPoptartz14 that's what I wanted to do haha but I think you have to do lessons aswell
Win the lottery and give them an allowance.. you'll get your bike then! When you do get it.. get what YOU want.
These are great videos!! He is definitely the best reviewer on youtube at this JUNCTURE! Hopefully we see a 636 review in there soon? :D
I feel like you didn't even try
Went from a 125 to a 600 to a 900 to a Kawasaki Z300 (naked ninja) and I have never had so much fun than on the ninja, absolutely stunning bike, easy handling, can thrash the engine, it looks amazing. For CITY riding in my opinion you do not need more than 300-400cc in a motorcycle.
Am i the only one who started on a 125 ?
Hey is it even worth it to do my cbt for the A1 license (125cc max)? or should i just wait till im 20 to get myself a ninja 300, im 18 in 2 months btw.
Ferhat Bozlak It depends. If you really need transport yea. Go for it. But if it can wait , wait. But i did my a1 when i was 16 and i started working and needed transport.
+TROLL MUNCHIES Ah thanks! Tyvm for the fast reply :D
Ferhat Bozlak Cool man. Ride save😉
***** Honda is mosly the cheapest . For insurance as wel for some reason. A 250 cbr could serf the porpose. I started on a honda 17 years ago and its still running. So honda is very reliable and usually cheaper than suzuki
Just got this today after seeing your review! Can't wait to pick it up tomorrow morning!
Emmm .... not sure how much more power a R6 has over the 300? Lol!
Like double lol
Lol!
I actually found outs its almost triple lol R6 is 108HP and the ninja 300 is 34...
lol
600cc 4cyl vs 300cc 2cyl. you think??
but don't underestimate it. a skilled rider on ninja 300 can easily keep up with R6 on twisties.
I Think You Do A Great Job Bro. You Feed A Lot Of Info About The Bikes You Test. Keep Up The Good Work Bro.
Perfect bike for my girlfriend!
I started with the cb500f, good starting bike. At 3000 miles already and loving it.
I'm one of those guys who started out with the old 250, not like it matters because you normally move up in 6 months to a year. I had never ridden a bike so it was a perfect starter for me. Highly recommended bike for beginners, just buy one used and you wont loose much if anything when you go to sell it in a year.
Nice review video as usual Chase. I know it is fun for you to do and it is fun for us to watch. Have to say maybe you could start doing a vlog on the bike. Then do a short cinematic recap video review at the end to high light the pros and cons. Just a suggestion.
Keep up the great work. Would be awesome to see you review the Yamaha R3 when mountain motors can get there hands on one.
Loving all your reviews so far man !. keep it up !
looking to buy a ninja 300 this week. I appreciate you doing this video.
Really helpful review Chase! Keep up the good work man!
As someone whos ridden a bike just to learn on, and has never really owned a bike before, i dont see any negatives to this bike, im deadset on getting this bike even before this video but now its concrete for sure going to get it
I had a 750 valcan now I down sized to a 400 burgman. I like the smaller bikes better now. I would love ❤️ to own a ninja 300
Noel Burger lol. I own a Ninja 300 and a Vulcan 900. LOVE BOTH. They're like night and day.
I keep going back and forth on the ninja 300 and the cbr 300r... but I have realized I've watched your first rides for the two.... at least 7-8 times... hahahaha
Thanks for the review C2W, I'll be looking forward to the first reviews on the Yamaha R3 as well!
I just got my 2015 ninja 300 and I'm in love with it!!!! great review!
I'm thinking of a ninja or R3 next year I just don't know which to choose!
Ninja 300! When I was young the best size bike I could buy being legal was a 125. I bought a RG125 Fun, a two stroke bike. New riders have it great.
I have this bike and I love it. If you want to cruise and chill its great. If you want to zip around it can do that. All of the power is above 7000 RPM and chase seems to keep it under 5000 for pretty much all of this video.
I own 2013 Ninja 300 ABS all black version. I think it's an amazing starter bike. Very nimble and fun to play with, and it does have plenty of power for the highways. Though to get any performance out of it, you need to allow the RPMs to be in the high range, which is fine cuz it makes it friendly for beginners. It doesn't look small and pathetic which is great and it's enough to impress the ladies which is also great. The only problem I have with mine is an electrical issue which I have yet to get fixed (kills the battery within a month, gone through 5 batteries so far and the dealers are useless).
I would never sell my ninja 300. I also have a GSXR1000 and I love going back to the 300 from time to time because it’s so nimble and fun
I'm waiting to see if the Ninja 400 comes to the US. I would keep that bike forever.
i love how you look at the bike from a different point of view, nice review man.
would love a 300 to start off with :)
I ride one of these almost every day and all I can say is it's one hell of a bike. Australia has laws restricting people to small bikes for 3 years, and these things are everywhere, they sell like hotcakes!
I have a 2011 Ninja 250R and I have had it for about 2 years. I am ready for a bigger bike. But I would say I am happy with the 250R. The 250R looks great and the aftermarket parts are cheap. I can learn to knee drag and commute to work every day on it. I love it and I don't see my self getting rid of it anytime soon.
One more thing, I ride the highway a lot and i have lots of power. I pass cars all the time.
Love your videos, very insightful and it helped me make up my mind to buy a Ninja 300. Thank you so much!
Looks are important. If youre happy with how your bike looks, you'll be on it more, and you'll learn more. Even just a few years ago, when I started, there wasn't near the choices there are now.
Yay! Thanks for th upload, Chase!! I was hoping to hear your thoughts on the little ninja. I love mine!
I started off on a Ninja 250. Rode about a year and felt comfortable enough to upgrade to a GSXR 600. Haven't had any issues since. The 250 just wasn't giving me the power I wanted in a bike.
Thank you for making this video, it definitely helps me confirm what I want to get as my first bike
Your review is dead on. I got my 300 last December and I have loved it. It is my first street bike and I have learned a ton about riding and myself. However I am really ready to move up to a bigger cc bike. Also I ride that stretch of the highway you rode on a lot and the bike holds its own.
I got my first bike a couple months ago. I got an 06 Ninja 500. Sure it doesnt have the most sporty styling cuz it looks more like the 250, but I think the engine size is perfect. It theoretically can do 0-60 in 3.7 but doesnt have that jump of power in the upper range of RPMs. Its light and quick enough and i think its the perfect bike for any beginner. I wonder why kawasaki doesnt offer a 500 anymore
Hey man thanks for encouraging words after I got in my accident. I'm back up and riding. Had the Sportster 1200 but traded it in for this 300. I've been riding for awhile and had R6, Daytona 955i, and ZX6. But coming from the Sportster this is pretty fun bike. Yes off the line acceleration isn't the best (esp since I'm still breaking it in) but I can flick it around and hang with highway traffic. Pretty fun little bike for beginners and experienced alike!
I love my 300! :) It's my second bike actually, gonna have it for two years until I can do unrestriced licence.
I do think it's a perfect bike for me to learn few things, especially fast corners! (well, as fast as me and the bike allows :))
Was definitely torn between getting a 250 or the 300. With what you said about highway power makes me definitely think the 300 would be the better buy.also have a friend with a 300 and he loves it as well. Thanks. Awesome video
Get a buell xb8s for a first bike, it makes less than a 100 horsepower, doesnt require chain adjustments since it has a belt, service intervals are 18,000 miles. It can cruise at 80 all day and it sounds hella good. The bike also incorporates very unique things that no other bike than a buell has, it out handles 600's as stated by cycleworld and motorcycle magazine, the bars are wide and flat and the bike is easy to ride fast without it going to your head and killing yourself.
I am definitely looking into this bike, I won't be able to ride for 3 more years but I've decided to start saving early. I've ridden little pit bikes and stuff but never a street bike, I'm curious how much this bike used will be in 3 years. Thank you for the review man, I'll definitely look into this bike some more.
Man. I've put 13k miles on my '07 Ninja 250 since last May. Just recently finished an '01 CBR 600f4i project bike and even though I'm having a blast with that, I won't sell my Ninjette. That thing is still a lot of fun. Nice review though. Only reason I'd get a Ninja 300 is to get away from carburetors (meh).
Awesome review. Was thinking of getting one to learn how to ride on it
Couldn't agree with you more on most of what you said about the ninja 300. I know a guy who owns an r1 and a ninja 300, his daily ride is the 300 because it has the power for day to day use, but it isn't enough to lose his licence unlike the r1. My first bike was a kymco ck125 & it was a piece of shit!! After owning it for 18months it wasn't confidence building. I upgraded to the 300 and after 6 months i upgraded to a zx6r without issue because of the confidence riding the 300 gives you.
As a first bike for those that haven't ridden the ninja 300 is perfect. my gf is learning on it now and she's doing amazing. If you can ride and have some skill then I'd go for a bigger bike, not an r6 or zx6r but a ninja 600 or a bike like that because if you can ride you will grow out of the ninja 300 real quick like I did but you will have a lot of fun doing so.
I also found it interesting you were talking about the engine being kinda whatever, full throttle no bite, if you were in a lower gear and had the revs about 10k and pulled the throttle, different story. You noticed that when getting on the highway and the revs were up.