When it comes to cruiser motorcycles in India, Royal Enfield has been the undisputed king for decades. Its bikes have that old-school charm, thumping engine note, and loyal fan base. But now, the competition is heating up, and Kawasaki has stepped into the ring with something fresh, modern, and seriously powerful – the Kawasaki Eliminator.
With its stylish looks, a performance-packed 451cc engine, and an impressive mileage of 30 kmpl, the Kawasaki Eliminator is here to challenge the very foundation of what Indian riders expect from a cruiser. Let’s take a deep dive into why this bike is turning heads and whether it’s the right upgrade for you.
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Table of Contents
A Fresh Take on Cruiser Design
The Kawasaki Eliminator brings a blend of classic cruiser styling and modern minimalism. It features the typical low-slung stance, stretched wheelbase, and comfortable riding posture that cruiser lovers adore. But unlike many retro cruisers, it avoids being overly bulky or old-fashioned.
At the front, you get a sleek round LED headlamp that gives it an aggressive yet elegant face. The matte-finish panels, blacked-out engine, and fat rear tyre give it a premium road presence. Every inch of the Eliminator has been designed to look purposeful – not overly flashy, but sophisticated enough to stand out in traffic.
While Royal Enfield still sticks to traditional vintage cues, the Kawasaki Eliminator manages to appeal to both new-age riders and seasoned cruiser fans who want something fresh without losing that laid-back cruiser vibe.
Engine – Where the Eliminator Takes the Lead
Here’s where things get interesting. The Kawasaki Eliminator comes powered by a 451cc parallel-twin engine derived from the Kawasaki Ninja 400, but tuned for stronger low- and mid-range torque – perfect for long highway rides and easy city cruising.
This liquid-cooled engine produces around 49 PS of power, which instantly puts it ahead of most Royal Enfield bikes in this price bracket. The throttle response is crisp, and acceleration is smooth, whether you’re riding solo or with a pillion.
The 6-speed gearbox shifts effortlessly, and the inclusion of a slipper clutch ensures smoother downshifts, reducing the risk of wheel lock during aggressive braking. Whether you’re overtaking on highways or navigating city streets, the Eliminator feels confident and responsive.
Ride Comfort & Handling
One of the biggest challenges for cruiser bikes in India is balancing comfort with ease of handling – and Kawasaki seems to have nailed it here.
The low seat height of 734 mm means even shorter riders can plant their feet firmly on the ground. Despite its cruiser build, the Kawasaki Eliminator weighs only 176 kg, making it surprisingly light for its segment. This helps immensely in city traffic, U-turns, and tight parking spots.
The suspension setup consists of telescopic forks at the front and twin shock absorbers at the rear, tuned for comfort. You’ll barely feel road imperfections, and even long rides will leave you less fatigued.
In terms of cornering and stability, the Eliminator feels well-planted at both low and high speeds, thanks to its balanced chassis and wide tyres. It’s a cruiser that doesn’t feel like a struggle in urban riding – a big plus for Indian conditions.
Technology & Features
The Kawasaki Eliminator keeps its feature list practical and rider-focused. You get:
- LCD Digital Instrument Cluster – Displays speed, RPM, gear position, trip meters, fuel gauge, and more.
- LED Lighting – Headlamp, tail lamp, and indicators for better visibility and modern appeal.
- USB-C Charging Port – Positioned near the handlebar for easy device charging.
- Bluetooth Connectivity (on select models) – Lets you pair your smartphone for call and notification alerts.
- Dual-Channel ABS – Ensures safer braking in all conditions.
While Royal Enfield offers the Tripper Navigation system, Kawasaki focuses more on refining the riding experience rather than overloading the bike with tech gimmicks.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency – Practical for Indian Roads
Cruisers are generally not bought for fuel efficiency, but the Kawasaki Eliminator surprises here with a claimed 30 kmpl mileage. For a bike with a 451cc twin-cylinder engine, this is seriously impressive.
Thanks to its tuned engine, lightweight body, and aerodynamic design, you can expect a riding range of nearly 390 km on a full 13-litre fuel tank. This makes it suitable for both city commutes and long touring without frequent fuel stops.
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Pricing & Variants
In India, the Kawasaki Eliminator is priced at ₹5.62 lakh (ex-showroom). Yes, it’s higher than most Royal Enfield cruisers, but what you’re getting in return is:
- A refined twin-cylinder engine
- Higher performance
- Premium build quality
- Kawasaki’s global reliability
Currently, only one variant is available in India, but Kawasaki may introduce more options depending on demand.
Kawasaki Eliminator vs Royal Enfield – The Cruiser Face-Off
If you’re comparing the Kawasaki Eliminator with Royal Enfield cruisers like the Meteor 350 or Super Meteor 650, here’s the reality:
- Performance – The Eliminator’s twin-cylinder engine offers a smoother and more powerful ride.
- Weight & Handling – Lighter than most Royal Enfields, making it more agile in city traffic.
- Design – Modern and clean, compared to RE’s retro-heavy styling.
- Price – More expensive, but justified for enthusiasts who want premium performance.
In short, if you want heritage and retro charm, Royal Enfield still wins. But if you want a modern cruiser that blends power, style, and practicality, the Kawasaki Eliminator is a clear winner.
Kawasaki Eliminator – At a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 451cc, Parallel-Twin |
| Power Output | ~49 PS |
| Mileage | Up to 30 kmpl |
| Transmission | 6-speed with slipper clutch |
| Weight | 176 kg |
| Seat Height | 734 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 litres |
| Brakes | Disc with dual-channel ABS |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹5.62 lakh |
Final Verdict – Should You Buy the Kawasaki Eliminator?
If you’re an Indian rider looking for a cruiser that’s modern, comfortable, fuel-efficient, and seriously powerful, the Kawasaki Eliminator deserves to be on your shortlist.
It offers the perfect mix of performance, practicality, and premium feel – something that’s rare in the cruiser segment. While Royal Enfield will always have its loyal fan base, the Eliminator offers a refreshing alternative for those ready to move beyond the retro mold.
With its 30 kmpl mileage, 451cc twin-cylinder engine, and premium Kawasaki build quality, this is one bike that can dominate both highways and city streets. For riders who value power and modern design, the Kawasaki Eliminator is not just a motorcycle – it’s a statement