The open road calls, and the Kawasaki Eliminator answers with a roar that blends classic cruiser style with modern performance. Launched in India at an ex-showroom price of ₹5.76 lakh, this 2025 MY25 model is a head-turner for riders seeking a balance of power, comfort, and iconic design. Whether you’re cruising through city streets or hitting the highway, the Eliminator promises a ride that’s as exhilarating as it is approachable. Let’s dive into what makes this bike a standout in the Indian cruiser market.
Why the Kawasaki Eliminator Stands Out
A Nod to Classic Cruiser Design
The Kawasaki Eliminator embraces the low-slung, long-and-low aesthetic that defines a true cruiser. Its sleek silhouette, with a vertically thin fuel tank and horizontal lines from head to tail, evokes the timeless charm of Kawasaki’s original Eliminator from decades past. The retro-inspired round LED headlamp, split seats, and wide handlebar give it a commanding road presence. Imagine cruising through Mumbai’s Marine Drive at sunset, the bike’s Metallic Flat Spark Black paint gleaming under the streetlights—heads are bound to turn.
Modern Tech Meets Retro Soul
While its design pays homage to the past, the Eliminator is packed with modern tech. A fully digital LCD instrument cluster offers a bar-style tachometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, and smartphone connectivity via Kawasaki’s Rideology app. This allows riders to access ride data, call notifications, and maintenance reminders on the go. Unlike some competitors, it skips navigation and riding modes for a pure, analog riding experience. For tech-savvy riders, this blend of simplicity and connectivity is a sweet spot.
Engine and Performance: Power with Poise
Ninja-Derived 451cc Parallel-Twin Engine
At the heart of the Eliminator lies a 451cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin engine, borrowed from the Ninja 500. This motor delivers 45 PS at 9,000 rpm and 42.6 Nm of torque at 7,500 rpm, offering strong low-end grunt for effortless city rides and smooth highway cruising. The 6.8mm longer stroke compared to the Ninja 400 enhances torque, making it ideal for relaxed yet spirited rides. Picture yourself weaving through Delhi’s traffic with ease or accelerating on an open stretch of NH48—the Eliminator handles both with finesse.
Smooth and Responsive Handling
The bike’s lightweight trellis frame, inspired by Kawasaki’s Ninja series, keeps the curb weight at 176 kg, making it surprisingly agile for a cruiser. Its 18-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels, paired with a 41mm telescopic fork and twin rear shocks, deliver a smooth ride over India’s varied roads. The handling is playful yet predictable, though riders may need to adjust to its sharp turn-in during cornering. As one rider shared on Reddit, “The Eliminator feels light and flickable, not what you’d expect from a cruiser!”
Comfort and Ergonomics: Built for the Long Haul
Low Seat Height for All Riders
With a seat height of 735mm—the lowest among Kawasaki’s 250-500cc on-road models—the Eliminator is accessible to riders of all statures. Whether you’re 5’7” or shorter, planting both feet firmly on the ground is a breeze, boosting confidence for new riders. Kawasaki also offers optional high and low seats for personalized comfort, ensuring everyone from beginners to seasoned riders feels at home.
Relaxed Riding Posture
The Eliminator’s forward-set footpegs and wide handlebar create a natural, stress-free riding position. The well-cushioned seat minimizes fatigue on long rides, making it perfect for weekend getaways to Lonavala or Jaipur. A friend who recently test-rode the bike noted, “I rode for three hours straight, and my back didn’t complain once. It’s like the bike hugs you.” This ergonomic design makes it an ideal daily companion, whether commuting or cruising.
Safety and Braking: Confidence in Every Stop
Dual-Channel ABS for Reliable Braking
Safety is non-negotiable, and the Eliminator delivers with a 310mm front disc and 240mm rear disc, both paired with dual-piston calipers and Nissin’s compact ABS unit. The front brake offers excellent bite, while the rear provides gradual stopping power, ensuring predictable halts even on wet Indian roads. The ABS is well-calibrated, stepping in only when needed without feeling intrusive.
Assist and Slipper Clutch
The bike’s assist and slipper clutch, derived from Kawasaki’s racing tech, ensures a light clutch pull and prevents rear-wheel hop during aggressive downshifts. This feature is a game-changer for city riders navigating stop-and-go traffic or those pushing the bike on twisty roads. It’s a small detail that adds big value to the riding experience.
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality
Mileage That Keeps You Riding
With an ARAI-claimed mileage of 29.5–31.45 kmpl, the Eliminator is fuel-efficient for a 451cc cruiser. Its 13-liter fuel tank offers a decent range, perfect for long rides without frequent fuel stops. For context, a rider covering 100 km daily in Bengaluru could go nearly a week without refueling, making it practical for both urban commutes and highway adventures.
Customization Options
The Eliminator is a canvas for personalization. From aftermarket exhausts to custom paint jobs, riders can make it their own. However, some Reddit users have expressed frustration over limited accessory availability in India, suggesting a visit to authorized dealerships for options like grab bars or windshields.
How It Compares: Eliminator vs. Rivals
The Eliminator’s closest rival is the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650, priced at around ₹3.6–4 lakh (ex-showroom). While the Super Meteor offers a larger 648cc engine and more retro appeal, the Eliminator counters with Japanese refinement, lighter weight, and modern tech like smartphone connectivity. The Honda Rebel 500, another competitor, is slightly pricier at ₹5.78 lakh and heavier at 191 kg, making the Eliminator a more approachable option for newer riders.
However, at ₹5.76 lakh (ex-showroom), some riders on social platforms like Reddit have called the Eliminator overpriced for a 450cc bike, especially when compared to the Ninja 500 at ₹5.24 lakh. Yet, its exclusivity and premium build quality justify the cost for those seeking a unique cruiser experience.
Is the Kawasaki Eliminator Worth It?
The Kawasaki Eliminator is a compelling choice for riders who crave a blend of classic cruiser style, modern performance, and everyday practicality. Its Ninja-derived engine, lightweight chassis, and rider-friendly ergonomics make it versatile for city commutes and highway cruises. While its single color option and lack of advanced features like navigation may disappoint some, its exclusivity and refined ride quality set it apart.
For someone like Arjun, a 30-year-old IT professional from Pune who dreams of weekend rides to Mahabaleshwar, the Eliminator offers the perfect mix of style and substance. It’s not just a bike; it’s a lifestyle statement. If you’re ready to embrace the open road with confidence and flair, the Kawasaki Eliminator is worth every penny.