Kawasaki Eliminator: The 451cc Cruiser That Could Finally Steal Royal Enfield’s Throne

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For decades, Kawasaki has been synonymous with speed, precision, and an unmistakable flair for engineering excellence. The brand has built its legacy on a wide range of motorcycles, from aggressive naked machines to high-performance sportbikes that dominate both streets and tracks. But with the Kawasaki Eliminator, the Japanese giant has stepped into a slightly different arena — one that focuses not just on raw speed, but on a more relaxed, comfortable, and stylish way of riding.

This isn’t about chasing lap times or leaning hard into every corner. Instead, the Kawasaki Eliminator aims to capture the soul of a cruiser while retaining the refined performance and modern technology that Kawasaki is known for. In a market like India, where Royal Enfield has long been the face of the cruiser segment, the Eliminator makes a bold statement — offering riders a fresh, contemporary alternative without compromising on capability.

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Underneath its sleek, low-slung bodywork lies a 451cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, capable of delivering both spirited performance and easygoing comfort. With an impressive claimed mileage of 30 kmpl, a low seat height, and a lightweight frame, it’s positioned as a versatile motorcycle — perfect for city commuting during the week and open-road adventures on the weekend. Let’s take an in-depth look at what makes this modern cruiser stand out in a segment dominated by nostalgia-heavy machines.

Kawasaki Eliminator – 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 350, Honda H’ness CB350

Design & Style – A Cruiser for the Modern Rider

The first thing you notice about the Kawasaki Eliminator is its confident, low-slung silhouette. Kawasaki has managed to design a cruiser that avoids the unnecessary bulk often associated with traditional models, making it visually sleek and proportionate. This design choice pays off not just in looks, but also in maneuverability — the bike feels nimble in traffic while maintaining a commanding presence on highways.

The long wheelbase and relaxed riding posture immediately give off “comfort first” vibes. The low seat height of 735 mm ensures that riders of different heights, including shorter ones, can plant their feet firmly on the ground. The forward-set footpegs and wide handlebars put you in an upright, relaxed position, making long hours in the saddle far more enjoyable.

Styling-wise, the Eliminator walks a fine line between retro charm and modern minimalism. A predominantly blacked-out treatment lends it a sporty, stealthy aura, while subtle chrome accents keep it classy. The round LED headlamp is a nod to classic design, but the slim fuel tank, tidy rear end, and contemporary proportions clearly place it in the modern cruiser category. The pillion seat is well-cushioned and neatly integrated, catering to riders who occasionally have company on their journeys.

Unlike Royal Enfield cruisers, which lean heavily into vintage aesthetics, the Kawasaki Eliminator appeals to riders who want their motorcycle to look timeless yet undeniably modern.

Engine & Performance – Smooth, Refined, and Powerful

At the core of the Kawasaki Eliminator is its 451cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine — a refined powerplant that delivers 45 PS at 9000 rpm and 42.6 Nm of torque at 6000 rpm. What makes this engine special is the way it delivers its power — smooth, predictable, and free from the excessive vibrations that are common in many single-cylinder cruisers.

Unlike the slow-revving thump of classic cruisers, the Eliminator’s twin-cylinder motor revs freely, giving you plenty of flexibility whether you’re cruising at low speeds or accelerating hard on the highway. It’s paired with a 6-speed gearbox featuring an assist and slipper clutch. This setup makes gear shifts buttery smooth while also reducing the effort required to operate the clutch — a blessing during long rides or stop-and-go city traffic.

On open highways, the Eliminator can comfortably cruise at high speeds and even stretch close to 160 kmph. This makes it one of the most performance-capable cruisers in its price bracket, easily outpacing many of its competitors. The best part? It does all this while maintaining composure, never feeling strained or unstable.

Mileage & Efficiency – More Than Just Muscle

Cruisers are rarely praised for their fuel efficiency, but the Kawasaki Eliminator proves that you don’t have to sacrifice mileage for performance. Kawasaki claims up to 30 kmpl, which is excellent for a mid-capacity twin-cylinder motorcycle.

In real-world conditions, depending on riding style and road conditions, you can expect slightly lower numbers — somewhere in the range of 27–29 kmpl. This efficiency, combined with its 13-litre fuel tank, gives the Eliminator a decent touring range before you need to think about refueling. It’s a small but significant advantage for riders who like to hit the highway without constant fuel stop interruptions.

Comfort & Ride Quality – Made for the Long Haul

The Kawasaki Eliminator delivers comfort in spades. Its 735 mm seat height is confidence-inspiring for a wide range of riders, and the cushioning is supportive enough for extended trips. The suspension setup — telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear — is tuned for comfort rather than razor-sharp handling, which suits a cruiser perfectly.

Road imperfections, potholes, and speed breakers are handled gracefully, making the Eliminator an easy companion for both city commutes and long highway journeys. The 18-inch front wheel and 16-inch rear wheel combination adds to the stability, while the tyres provide solid grip in dry and wet conditions.

At 176 kg kerb weight, it’s lighter than many traditional cruisers, which helps in low-speed maneuvering and parking in tight spots.

Features & Technology – Function Over Frills

The Kawasaki Eliminator keeps things simple and rider-focused when it comes to features. Its digital LCD instrument console is compact but clear, displaying all essential information like speed, rpm, fuel level, trip meter, and gear position.

Key features include:

  • All-LED lighting for improved visibility and modern appeal

  • Assist & slipper clutch for effortless gear shifts

  • Dual-channel ABS with disc brakes for enhanced safety

  • Tubeless tyres for added convenience and reliability

While it doesn’t offer Bluetooth connectivity or built-in navigation, Kawasaki has intentionally focused on core riding features rather than gadgetry, keeping the bike’s character pure and uncluttered.

Price & Value – A Premium Cruiser with Justifiable Costs

At ₹5.62 lakh (ex-showroom), the Kawasaki Eliminator sits at a higher price point than rivals like the Royal Enfield Meteor 350 or Honda H’ness CB350. But the price reflects what you’re getting — a larger, more powerful twin-cylinder engine, superior refinement, and a design that stands apart in the cruiser market.

It’s not just about nostalgia or brand heritage here. The Eliminator appeals to riders who value Japanese engineering precision, modern styling, and a higher level of performance. For those looking to upgrade from entry-level cruisers, it represents a significant step up without being intimidating to ride.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is the Kawasaki Eliminator better than Royal Enfield?
In terms of refinement, engine performance, and modern features, the Eliminator offers a more advanced package. However, Royal Enfield models still hold an edge in heritage appeal and brand following.

Q2. What is the mileage of the Kawasaki Eliminator?
The claimed mileage is around 30 kmpl, which is excellent for a 451cc parallel-twin 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?
Its smooth power delivery and low seat height make it approachable, but it’s best suited for riders with some prior experience.

Q5. Does the Kawasaki Eliminator have Bluetooth or navigation?
No, Kawasaki has focused on essential riding features rather than adding advanced connectivity options.

Final Verdict – A Cruiser for the New Generation

The Kawasaki Eliminator represents a refreshing take on what a cruiser can be. It’s not about chasing retro charm or trying to imitate classic designs. Instead, it blends contemporary styling with practical comfort, smooth performance, and respectable efficiency.

Its 451cc parallel-twin engine offers more refinement and speed than most competitors, while its lightweight chassis and low seat height make it accessible to a wider range of riders. Whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising on open highways, the Eliminator feels equally at home.

While it may not have the decades-long cult following of Royal Enfield, it offers something just as compelling — the assurance of Japanese build quality and the joy of riding a motorcycle designed for today’s cruiser enthusiast. For riders looking to move beyond entry-level options and embrace a modern, capable, and stylish cruiser, the Kawasaki Eliminator isn’t just another choice — it’s a top contender.

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