Kawasaki has long been celebrated for building motorcycles that are not only powerful but also stylish and engineered with precision. Over the decades, the brand has carved its identity around high-performance sportbikes and aggressive naked machines. But with the introduction of the Kawasaki Eliminator, the Japanese manufacturer is stepping into slightly different territory.
This time, it’s not just about adrenaline-fueled speed or track-oriented handling — it’s about creating a bike that marries performance with comfort, embodying the laid-back spirit of a cruiser without sacrificing Kawasaki’s signature engineering finesse. With the cruiser market in India heavily influenced by Royal Enfield for years, the Kawasaki Eliminator represents a bold move to attract both seasoned riders and newcomers looking for something fresh.
Packing a 451cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, a sleek and low-slung silhouette, and an impressive claimed mileage of 30 kmpl, the Eliminator positions itself as a capable and stylish alternative to models like the Royal Enfield Meteor 350, Classic 350, and Honda H’ness CB350. Let’s dive deep into what makes this machine tick, how it stands apart from its rivals, and why it’s turning heads among cruiser enthusiasts.
Overview Table
| Feature Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Name | Kawasaki Eliminator |
| Engine Type | 451cc Liquid-Cooled Parallel-Twin |
| Power Output | 45 PS @ 9000 rpm |
| Torque | 42.6 Nm @ 6000 rpm |
| Mileage (Claimed) | Up to 30 kmpl |
| Gearbox | 6-Speed Manual |
| Seat Height | 735 mm |
| Weight (Kerb) | 176 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 Litres |
| Price Range (Ex-showroom) | ₹5.62 Lakh |
| Rivals | Royal Enfield Meteor, Honda H’ness CB350 |
Design & Style
One of the most striking aspects of the Kawasaki Eliminator is its low-slung cruiser design that avoids the excessive bulk often associated with traditional cruisers. This makes it not only visually sleek but also more manageable on crowded urban roads and twisty highways alike.
Its long wheelbase and relaxed stance immediately signal comfort, while the low seat height ensures that riders of various heights feel confident at a standstill. The riding position — upright with forward-set footpegs — is designed for long hours in the saddle without inducing fatigue.
The styling is modern yet subtly classic. A blacked-out finish dominates most components, with chrome used sparingly to maintain a premium yet sporty vibe. The round LED headlamp brings a hint of retro, but the slim fuel tank, wide handlebars, and neatly integrated rear section give it a contemporary cruiser identity. The compact tail lamp and well-cushioned pillion seat complete the aesthetic, making the Kawasaki Eliminator equally appealing to solo riders and those who occasionally travel with a passenger.
In contrast to the old-school charm of Royal Enfield designs, the Eliminator leans towards minimalism and precision, which resonates strongly with younger riders who prefer a clean, modern look without unnecessary ornamentation.
Engine & Performance
Beneath the sleek exterior lies the heart of the Kawasaki Eliminator — a 451cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine. This powerplant produces 45 PS at 9000 rpm and 42.6 Nm of torque at 6000 rpm, delivering a smooth yet spirited performance profile.
Unlike the thumpy single-cylinder beat of many cruisers, the twin-cylinder setup offers a refined and vibration-free ride, especially at higher speeds. Power delivery is linear and predictable, making it easy to ride in the city yet potent enough for spirited highway cruising.
The 6-speed gearbox is precise and comes equipped with an assist and slipper clutch, which not only makes gear changes smoother but also reduces fatigue during stop-and-go traffic. Open up the throttle on a highway, and the Eliminator responds eagerly, capable of reaching a top speed close to 160 kmph, comfortably outpacing most Royal Enfield models in terms of outright speed.
Where it truly shines is in its balance — nimble enough for city maneuverability but planted and stable during high-speed touring. Riders upgrading from entry-level cruisers will notice the performance jump immediately.
Mileage & Efficiency
Cruisers aren’t typically known for outstanding fuel economy, but the Kawasaki Eliminator surprises in this department. Kawasaki claims up to 30 kmpl, which is impressive for a 451cc twin-cylinder motorcycle. In real-world conditions, figures might hover slightly lower, depending on riding style, load, and road conditions, but the efficiency remains respectable for its segment.
The 13-litre fuel tank provides a decent riding range, especially useful for weekend rides or short tours where fuel stops are less frequent. For riders planning longer journeys, this balance of performance and efficiency ensures fewer compromises.
Comfort & Ride Quality
Comfort is where the Kawasaki Eliminator truly asserts itself as a cruiser. The 735 mm seat height caters to riders of varying heights, allowing even shorter riders to plant their feet firmly on the ground. This builds confidence, especially for those transitioning from smaller bikes.
The suspension setup — telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear — is tuned towards comfort rather than aggressive handling. This means potholes, speed breakers, and uneven tarmac are soaked up with minimal discomfort. The 18-inch front wheel and 16-inch rear wheel combination strikes a good balance between stability and agility, aided by tyres that offer commendable grip in both dry and wet conditions.
In traffic, the bike feels lighter and more responsive than heavier cruisers, while on open roads, it delivers a planted, composed ride that encourages long-distance touring.
Features & Technology
The Kawasaki Eliminator is not overloaded with flashy tech but offers just the right set of features that enhance usability without unnecessary complexity. The digital LCD instrument console is compact yet clear, displaying essential data such as speed, rpm, fuel level, gear position, and trip information.
Key features include:
- All-LED lighting for better visibility and a modern look
- Assist & slipper clutch for effortless gear changes
- Dual-channel ABS paired with disc brakes for enhanced safety
- Tubeless tyres for added reliability and easier puncture repairs
While it skips features like Bluetooth connectivity or integrated navigation, its focus remains squarely on delivering a pure, rider-centric experience.
Price & Value Proposition
At ₹5.62 lakh (ex-showroom), the Kawasaki Eliminator commands a premium over its closest competitors, particularly the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 and Honda H’ness CB350. However, this price is reflective of what it brings to the table — a larger displacement twin-cylinder engine, superior refinement, better performance, and a design philosophy that blends global appeal with rider comfort.
For buyers looking beyond brand nostalgia and more towards engineering precision, modern styling, and reliability, the Eliminator justifies its price tag. It’s aimed at riders ready to upgrade to a more capable machine that can handle city commutes just as effortlessly as long highway stretches.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is the Kawasaki Eliminator better than Royal Enfield?
In terms of engine refinement, power output, and ride comfort, the Eliminator offers a more modern and performance-oriented package than most Royal Enfield cruisers.
Q2. What is the mileage of the Kawasaki Eliminator?
The claimed mileage is around 30 kmpl, which is excellent for a 451cc twin-cylinder cruiser.
Q3. What is the top speed of the Kawasaki Eliminator?
It can reach close to 160 kmph, making it one of the fastest cruisers in its segment.
Q4. Is the Kawasaki Eliminator suitable for beginners?
While it’s accessible thanks to its low seat height and smooth power delivery, it’s best suited for riders with some prior experience.
Q5. Does the Kawasaki Eliminator have Bluetooth or navigation?
No, Kawasaki has kept the focus on riding dynamics and core features rather than gadget-heavy add-ons.
Final Verdict
The Kawasaki Eliminator marks an exciting expansion in Kawasaki’s lineup, offering Indian riders a modern cruiser that delivers on multiple fronts — performance, comfort, style, and efficiency. It’s not trying to be a nostalgic throwback, nor is it an aggressive sport machine. Instead, it finds a sweet spot for riders who value relaxed ergonomics without giving up responsive performance.
Its 451cc parallel-twin engine provides smooth, predictable power, its design is contemporary yet timeless, and its ride quality is well-suited for both city commutes and highway adventures. While it might not have the cult following of Royal Enfield, it offers something equally valuable: the reassurance of Japanese engineering and the thrill of riding a machine built for the modern cruiser enthusiast.
For riders ready to step up to a refined, capable, and stylish cruiser, the Kawasaki Eliminator isn’t just an option — it’s a strong contender that deserves serious consideration.
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