The Kawasaki Eliminator marks a bold return of a classic nameplate to the Indian motorcycle market, reimagined as a modern cruiser that blends retro styling with contemporary engineering. Launched in India as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) unit, this middleweight cruiser is designed to appeal to riders seeking a balance of style, performance, and accessibility. Powered by a 451cc parallel-twin engine derived from the Ninja 500, the Eliminator offers a unique proposition in a segment dominated by single-cylinder offerings from brands like Royal Enfield. With its low-slung design, approachable seat height, and a mix of modern features, it caters to both seasoned riders and newcomers looking for an urban cruiser with a distinctive edge. Kawasaki has positioned the Eliminator as a premium offering, priced at a starting point of Rs. 5.62 lakh (ex-showroom), making it a high-end choice in its category. In this detailed exploration, we’ll dive into its technical specifications, design elements, features, variants, pricing across metro cities, and how it stacks up against its closest competitors in India.
The Eliminator’s re-entry into India revives a legacy that once featured a single-cylinder model tailored for the local market. However, this iteration is a significant departure, embracing a twin-cylinder setup and a global design ethos. Its sleek silhouette, featuring a round LED headlight, a wide fuel tank, and a split-seat configuration, exudes the timeless charm of a cruiser while incorporating modern touches like smartphone connectivity and full LED lighting. While its price places it in a niche segment, the Eliminator aims to justify its premium tag with a refined riding experience and versatile performance. Let’s break down what makes this motorcycle a standout option in India’s burgeoning cruiser landscape.
Technical Specifications
The Kawasaki Eliminator comes equipped with a robust set of specifications that define its performance and ride quality. Below is a detailed table summarizing its key technical attributes, sourced from reputable platforms like BikeDekho and BikeWale, ensuring accuracy as of April 06, 2025.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, Parallel Twin |
| Displacement | 451 cc |
| Max Power | 45 PS @ 9,000 rpm |
| Max Torque | 42.6 Nm @ 6,000 rpm |
| Mileage | 31.45 kmpl (expert reported, BikeWale), 29 kmpl (owner reported average) |
| Transmission | 6-speed, Return Shift |
| Fuel System | Fuel Injection |
| Cooling System | Liquid-cooled |
| Bore x Stroke | 70.0 mm x 58.6 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 |
| Starting | Electric Start Only |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 Litres |
| Length | 2,250 mm |
| Width | 785 mm |
| Height | 1,100 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1,520 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 150 mm |
| Seat Height | 735 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 176 kg |
| Frame | Trellis, High-Tensile Steel |
| Front Suspension | 41 mm Telescopic Fork, 120 mm travel |
| Rear Suspension | Twin Shocks, 90 mm travel |
| Front Brake | Single 310 mm Disc, Dual-Piston Caliper, ABS |
| Rear Brake | Single 240 mm Disc, Single-Piston Caliper, ABS |
| Tyre Size (Front) | 130/70-18 M/C 63H (Tubeless) |
| Tyre Size (Rear) | 150/80-16 M/C 71H (Tubeless) |
| Wheel Type | Alloy Wheels (18-inch front, 16-inch rear) |
| Emission Standard | BS6 Phase 2 |
These specifications highlight the Eliminator’s capability as a versatile cruiser, combining a potent engine with a lightweight chassis and modern braking systems. The 451cc parallel-twin engine delivers a healthy 45 PS of power, making it one of the more powerful options in its class, while its mileage of 31.45 kmpl (as tested by BikeWale) ensures decent efficiency for a twin-cylinder machine.
Design and Exteriors
The Kawasaki Eliminator’s exterior design is a nod to classic cruiser aesthetics, reinterpreted with a modern twist. Its long and low profile is accentuated by a raked-out front end, featuring a round LED headlight that adds a retro charm while ensuring excellent nighttime visibility. The fuel tank, with a capacity of 13 litres, is wide and vertically thin, contributing to the bike’s elegant proportions and low center of gravity. This design not only enhances its visual appeal but also aids in mass centralization, improving handling at low speeds.
The bike’s split-seat configuration offers a distinct rider and pillion section, with the rider’s seat positioned at a highly accessible 735 mm, one of the lowest among Kawasaki’s 250-500cc on-road models in India. This low seat height inspires confidence, especially for shorter riders or those new to cruisers. The rear end features a sleek LED taillight with a slash-cut design, drawing inspiration from the original Eliminator while maintaining a contemporary edge. The exposed trellis frame and side-slung exhaust further emphasize its muscular stance, though some riders note that the lack of aftermarket accessory support in India leaves the bike’s body somewhat exposed to road conditions.
Available in a single color option—Metallic Flat Spark Black—the Eliminator opts for a minimalist yet striking look. While this monochrome palette aligns with its retro-modern ethos, some critics argue that additional color variants could enhance its showroom appeal, especially given its premium pricing. The 18-inch front and 16-inch rear alloy wheels, shod with tubeless tires, complete the package, offering a balance of style and functionality suited for urban and highway cruising alike.
Interiors and Ergonomics
While motorcycles don’t have “interiors” in the traditional sense, the Eliminator’s ergonomics and rider interface deserve attention. The bike is designed with a natural riding position, featuring a low, flat handlebar and forward-set footpegs that allow for a relaxed posture. This setup accommodates a wide range of riders, from tall to short, without compromising comfort. The handle grips are positioned where arms naturally extend, and the footpegs avoid cramping, making it ideal for long rides or daily commutes.
The split seat is well-padded, offering ample cushioning to reduce fatigue on extended journeys. Kawasaki also provides accessory high and low seats, further tailoring the bike to individual rider preferences. The pillion seat, though compact, is complemented by an ergonomic grab bar, ensuring a comfortable experience for a passenger. The lightweight frame, at 176 kg, combined with good mass centralization, makes it easy to lift off the sidestand and maneuver at low speeds, enhancing its appeal as an everyday riding partner.
Advanced Features
The Kawasaki Eliminator integrates modern technology to elevate the riding experience without overwhelming its cruiser simplicity. At its core is a fully digital LCD instrument console, a compact round display that offers a modern touch while maintaining an authentic vibe. This console provides essential readouts, including a speedometer, digital bar-style tachometer, gear position indicator, clock, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge, remaining fuel range, and current and average mileage. Additional features like a maintenance reminder and smartphone connectivity via Kawasaki’s Rideology app allow riders to receive call and email notifications, adding a layer of practicality.
Safety is bolstered by full LED lighting—headlight, taillight, and turn indicators—ensuring visibility in all conditions. The braking system includes dual-channel ABS sourced from Nissin, paired with a 310 mm front disc and a 240 mm rear disc, delivering predictable stopping power with a well-calibrated ABS that isn’t overly intrusive. An assist and slipper clutch enhances gear shifts and reduces fatigue in stop-and-go traffic, while a side stand sensor adds an extra layer of safety. While the feature set is decent, some riders feel it could be more extensive given the bike’s premium price point, especially when compared to competitors offering additional aids like traction control.
Variants
The Kawasaki Eliminator is available in a single variant in India, keeping things straightforward for buyers. Below is a table detailing its variant specifics:
| Variant | Description | Color Option |
|---|---|---|
| Eliminator STD | Standard model with all listed features and specs | Metallic Flat Spark Black |
Unlike markets like Japan, where the Eliminator is offered in Standard and SE variants (the latter with extras like a headlight cowl and USB charger), India gets only the STD variant. This decision likely reflects Kawasaki’s strategy to streamline its CBU offerings in a price-sensitive market, though it limits customization options out of the box.
Price in Metro Cities
The Eliminator’s pricing varies across India’s metro cities due to differences in RTO charges, insurance, and local taxes. Below is a table of its on-road prices as of April 06, 2025, sourced from BikeDekho and BikeWale:
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (Rs.) | On-Road Price (Rs.) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 5,62,000 | 6,50,198 – 6,56,644 |
| Mumbai | 5,62,000 | 7,10,000 – 7,53,906 |
| Bangalore | 5,62,000 | 7,08,042 |
| Pune | 5,62,000 | 6,55,468 |
| Chennai | 5,62,000 | 6,60,000 (approx.) |
Note: On-road prices include ex-showroom cost, RTO charges, and insurance, and may fluctuate based on offers or additional accessories. Kawasaki recently introduced a Rs. 15,000 discount on the ex-showroom price, valid until March 31, 2025, bringing the effective starting price to Rs. 5,47,000 in some cities.
About the Bike
The Kawasaki Eliminator is more than just a revival of a storied name—it’s a statement of intent from Kawasaki to carve a niche in India’s cruiser segment. Launched in January 2024, this bike targets riders who crave a blend of classic cruiser styling and modern performance, a combination that sets it apart from the predominantly retro-focused offerings in the Indian market. Its 451cc parallel-twin engine, borrowed from the Ninja 500, is a standout feature, delivering 44.7 bhp (45 PS) and 42.6 Nm of torque. Unlike the typical low-revving single-cylinder engines found in most Indian cruisers, this motor is fast, free-revving, and offers a punchy mid-range, making it equally adept at city commuting and highway cruising. The 180-degree firing order adds a unique character to its exhaust note, distinguishing it from the thump of Royal Enfield models.
Performance-wise, the Eliminator excels in versatility. It can cruise at 50 kmph in sixth gear within city limits or maintain 100-120 kmph on highways without strain, thanks to its linear power delivery and smooth six-speed gearbox. Minor vibrations do creep in at higher speeds, felt through the footpegs, seat, and handlebar, but they’re not significant enough to detract from the experience. The liquid-cooling system ensures the engine remains composed even in India’s notorious traffic, a practical advantage over air-cooled competitors. With a tested mileage of 31.45 kmpl and a 13-litre tank, the Eliminator offers a range exceeding 400 km, making it a viable option for weekend getaways or long-distance rides.
Handling is another area where the Eliminator shines. Despite its 18-inch front and 16-inch rear wheel combination—a nod to classic cruiser design—it feels surprisingly light and agile. Flicking it side to side requires minimal effort, though riders must adapt to its sharp turn-in behavior when cornering. Once mastered, this liveliness makes it one of the most dynamic cruisers in its segment. The trellis frame, inspired by the Ninja 400, keeps the bike stable at speed while maintaining a low seat height of 735 mm, enhancing rider confidence. The suspension—41 mm telescopic forks up front and twin shocks at the rear—strikes a balance between comfort and sportiness, absorbing bumps well while keeping the bike planted during spirited riding.
Braking performance is equally impressive. The 310 mm front disc offers strong bite and progression, complemented by a 240 mm rear disc that provides gradual stopping power. The dual-channel ABS is finely tuned, intervening only when necessary, which adds to the bike’s predictability. This setup ensures the Eliminator stops confidently, whether navigating urban traffic or decelerating from highway speeds. However, some riders note that the bike’s 150 mm ground clearance can be a limitation on poorly maintained Indian roads, occasionally leading to underbelly scrapes over tall speed breakers.
Visually, the Eliminator is a head-turner, though it could benefit from a more muscular presence. Its low-slung stance and raked-out front align with Japanese cruiser aesthetics, but the single-color option and relatively understated design might not appeal to buyers seeking flashier alternatives. The lack of aftermarket support in India is a notable drawback—accessories like radiator guards or backrests are scarce, often requiring imports. This contrasts with competitors like Royal Enfield, which boast extensive customization ecosystems.
The Eliminator’s feature set, while modern, is somewhat basic for its price. The digital LCD console with smartphone connectivity is a welcome addition, but the absence of advanced aids like traction control or riding modes feels like a missed opportunity in a premium cruiser. That said, its Rideology app integration adds a layer of convenience, allowing riders to monitor trip data and receive notifications on the go. The assist and slipper clutch is a boon in traffic, reducing hand fatigue, while the full LED lighting ensures safety and style.
At Rs. 5.62 lakh (ex-showroom), the Eliminator is undeniably expensive, especially as a CBU import. This pricing pits it against more affordable options like the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 and premium alternatives like the Kawasaki Vulcan S. Kawasaki justifies this with its refined engineering, twin-cylinder performance, and brand prestige, but its value proposition remains debated among Indian buyers, many of whom prioritize cost-effectiveness over exclusivity.
Close Competitors
The Eliminator operates in a competitive space, facing off against both direct and indirect rivals. Below is a table comparing it with its closest competitors in India:
| Bike Model | Engine | Power | Torque | Price (Ex-Showroom, Rs.) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kawasaki Eliminator | 451cc Twin | 45 PS | 42.6 Nm | 5,62,000 | LED lighting, ABS, Smartphone Connectivity |
| Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 | 648cc Twin | 47 PS | 52.3 Nm | 3,63,900 | Retro design, Tripper Navigation, Affordable |
| Benelli 502C | 500cc Twin | 47.5 PS | 46 Nm | 5,25,000 | Sporty cruiser, ABS, Digital Display |
| Kawasaki Vulcan S | 649cc Twin | 61 PS | 62.4 Nm | 7,10,000 | Adjustable ergonomics, ABS, Premium build |
Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650
The Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 is the Eliminator’s closest rival in terms of power and intent. Priced at Rs. 3,63,900 (ex-showroom), it’s significantly more affordable, offering a 648cc parallel-twin engine with 47 PS and a robust 52.3 Nm of torque. Its retro styling, complete with a Tripper navigation pod, appeals to traditionalists, while its lower price and extensive aftermarket support make it a formidable contender. However, it lacks the Eliminator’s modern tech like smartphone connectivity and has a heavier 241 kg kerb weight, contrasting with the Eliminator’s nimble 176 kg.
Benelli 502C
The Benelli 502C, priced at Rs. 5,25,000 (ex-showroom), is a closer match in terms of cost and engine size. Its 500cc twin-cylinder engine delivers 47.5 PS and 46 Nm, slightly outpacing the Eliminator in torque. With a sportier cruiser stance, ABS, and a digital display, it appeals to riders seeking a blend of performance and style. However, its 217 kg weight and less accessible 785 mm seat height make it less beginner-friendly than the Eliminator.
Kawasaki Vulcan S
From the same stable, the Kawasaki Vulcan S targets a higher price bracket at Rs. 7,10,000 (ex-showroom). Its 649cc twin produces a commanding 61 PS and 62.4 Nm, outclassing the Eliminator in raw power. Adjustable ergonomics and a premium build cater to seasoned riders, but its higher cost and 235 kg weight position it as a step-up option rather than a direct competitor.
Final Thoughts!
The Kawasaki Eliminator is a compelling addition to India’s cruiser market, blending a retro-modern design with a potent twin-cylinder engine and approachable ergonomics. Its 451cc powerplant, delivering 45 PS and 42.6 Nm, offers a unique mix of performance and efficiency, while features like ABS, LED lighting, and smartphone connectivity align it with contemporary expectations. However, its Rs. 5.62 lakh (ex-showroom) price tag and single-variant offering place it in a premium niche, competing with more affordable options like the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 and similarly priced rivals like the Benelli 502C.
For riders prioritizing refinement, lightweight handling, and a distinctive riding experience, the Eliminator justifies its cost. Yet, its limited color options, sparse aftermarket support, and lack of advanced features may deter value-conscious buyers in India. Against competitors, it stands out for its agility and modern tech but falls short in affordability and customization potential. Ultimately, the Eliminator is a lifestyle choice—a cruiser that invites riders to embrace the journey with style and confidence, provided they’re willing to pay the premium.
