For many years, Royal Enfield has largely held the keys to the Indian cruiser motorcycle market. The Meteor and Classic models, in particular, have developed a significant following, attracting riders seeking a comfortable, laid-back ride with vintage appeal. However, the landscape is shifting as the Indian market evolves, fostering a growing desire for motorcycles that are modern, refined, and versatile. Enter the Kawasaki Eliminator.
Featuring a contemporary design, a light and agile frame, and a robust 451cc parallel-twin engine, the Kawasaki Eliminator presents a distinct alternative to the traditional Royal Enfield experience. More than just a motorcycle, it’s a statement – a fusion of comfort, sophisticated engineering, and Japanese precision. Priced at ₹5.62 lakh (ex-showroom), this cruiser has generated considerable buzz among enthusiasts eager for something different.
Let’s delve into the specifics of what makes the Kawasaki Eliminator a serious contender in the cruiser segment.
A Cruiser Built for Today’s Rider
The Kawasaki Eliminator makes a strong first impression. It eschews the heavy reliance on retro aesthetics that define many cruisers, instead opting for a modern design that’s also practical. The low-slung profile is classic cruiser, while the streamlined, minimalist design gives it a fresh, contemporary feel.
Unlike some of the more cumbersome cruisers that can be a handful in urban traffic, the Eliminator is built for agility and ease of handling. Its curb weight of just 176 kg is noticeably lower than many rivals, inspiring confidence in both city riding and open-road adventures.
The accessible 735 mm seat height ensures a comfortable reach for riders of various statures, while the wide handlebars and forward-positioned footpegs provide the relaxed riding posture expected of a cruiser. Whether riding solo or with a passenger, the Kawasaki Eliminator offers a comfortable, balanced, and natural riding experience.
Engine & Performance – Smooth Yet Powerful
The heart of the Kawasaki Eliminator is its 451cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine, delivering 45 PS at 9000 rpm and 42.6 Nm of torque at 6000 rpm. This configuration guarantees smooth, predictable power delivery, avoiding the heavy vibrations associated with some single-cylinder cruisers.
A 6-speed gearbox, complete with an assist and slipper clutch, ensures light and precise gear changes. This feature is particularly beneficial on long journeys or in stop-start traffic, reducing rider fatigue.
While traditional cruisers prioritize low-end torque, the Kawasaki Eliminator adds a high-revving dimension to the equation. On the open road, it delivers confident performance and effortless cruising at 100–120 kmph, with ample power in reserve to reach speeds approaching 160 kmph. This versatility will appeal to riders seeking both relaxed city cruising and spirited weekend escapes.
Mileage & Efficiency – Practical for Indian Roads
Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for Indian riders, especially in the mid-capacity motorcycle category. Kawasaki advertises a fuel economy figure of up to 30 kmpl for the Eliminator, a notable achievement for a 451cc twin-cylinder motorcycle.
Under typical riding conditions, expect to see figures closer to 27–29 kmpl, which remains a respectable and practical return. Coupled with a 13-litre fuel tank, the Kawasaki Eliminator provides a reasonable touring range, minimizing fuel stops on longer journeys. This blend of performance and fuel economy is a significant advantage for a cruiser.
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Comfort & Ride Quality – Built for the Long Haul
Cruisers are known for comfort, and the Kawasaki Eliminator delivers. The seat provides ample cushioning for extended rides, and the upright riding position reduces strain, even after hours on the road.
The suspension system, featuring telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear, is tuned for comfort, effectively absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface. The 18-inch front and 16-inch rear wheel combination contributes to high-speed stability and confident grip in both wet and dry conditions.
At 176 kg, the motorcycle feels surprisingly light and manageable, making it easy to navigate through city traffic. Parking, U-turns, and low-speed manoeuvres are less daunting compared to heavier, more cumbersome cruisers.
Features & Technology – Focused on Essentials
Kawasaki has prioritized essential features on the Eliminator. Rather than overwhelming riders with unnecessary gadgets, the focus is on core functionalities.
Key features include:
- All-LED lighting for superior visibility and a modern aesthetic
- Digital LCD console displaying speed, rpm, gear position, fuel level, and trip information
- Dual-channel ABS with disc brakes providing enhanced safety
- Assist & slipper clutch for smooth gear transitions
- Tubeless tyres for added convenience and reliability
While it lacks smartphone connectivity or turn-by-turn navigation, the Kawasaki Eliminator stays true to its core identity – a focused riding experience.
Price & Value – Premium But Worth It
At ₹5.62 lakh (ex-showroom), the Kawasaki Eliminator carries a higher price tag than rivals such as the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 and Honda H’ness CB350. However, considering its twin-cylinder engine, superior refinement, and modern design, the premium is justifiable.
Kawasaki Eliminator vs Rivals
- Royal Enfield Meteor 350 – More affordable with a strong heritage, but less refined and with lower performance.
- Honda H’ness CB350 – Well-rounded with classic styling, but lacks the punch of a twin-cylinder engine.
- Kawasaki Eliminator – Higher price, but with best-in-class refinement, higher top speed, and modern aesthetics.
For riders who prioritize modern engineering and a refined riding experience, the Eliminator is a compelling and future-proof alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the mileage of the Kawasaki Eliminator?
The claimed mileage is 30 kmpl, with real-world figures likely between 27–29 kmpl.
Q2. What is the top speed of the Kawasaki Eliminator?
It can reach approximately 160 kmph, making it among the fastest in its class.
Q3. Is the Kawasaki Eliminator beginner-friendly?
Yes. Its smooth power delivery, low seat height, and light frame make it accessible for newer riders.
Q4. How does it compare to Royal Enfield?
Royal Enfield excels in heritage and brand loyalty, while the Kawasaki Eliminator offers superior refinement, performance, and modern design.
Q5. Does the Eliminator come with Bluetooth or navigation?
No, its focus is on providing a pure and essential riding experience.
Final Verdict – A Cruiser for the New Generation
The Kawasaki Eliminator represents an evolution in the Indian cruiser market. It successfully combines the relaxed ergonomics of a cruiser with the sophistication and performance of a contemporary motorcycle. For riders seeking the comfort of a cruiser without the old-school feel of traditional options, the Eliminator provides an appealing alternative.
With its smooth twin-cylinder engine, lightweight construction, comfortable ergonomics, and practical fuel efficiency, the Kawasaki Eliminator is well-suited to the needs of the modern Indian rider. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend explorer, or someone upgrading from a smaller bike, this motorcycle checks all the essential boxes.