The 2025 Kawasaki Eliminator has officially entered the competitive cruiser market, positioning itself as a direct and formidable challenger to Royal Enfield’s dominance. This new motorcycle successfully marries vintage cruiser aesthetics with advanced modern technology, creating a compelling alternative for riders who admire RE’s traditional styling but seek a more refined, powerful, and technologically superior riding experience. With its Japanese engineering, light 388-pound curb weight, and responsive handling, the Eliminator is designed for both easy urban commutes and engaging weekend touring, featuring a comfortable low seat height and an accessible riding posture. It is available in Standard, ABS, and SE ABS versions, with eye-catching colors like Pearl Sand Khaki and Metallic Matte Dark Green.
Powerful 451cc Parallel-Twin Engine Performance
The heart of the new Eliminator is a potent 451cc parallel-twin engine derived directly from Kawasaki’s high-performance Ninja series. This liquid-cooled unit produces a strong 45 horsepower at 9,000 rpm and 31.7 lb-ft of torque at 7,500 rpm. This output ensures swift acceleration and effortless cruising, significantly outperforming Royal Enfield’s popular 349cc single-cylinder engine (approx. 20 hp) and offering close competition to their larger 650 twins (47 hp).
The twin-cylinder configuration inherently offers reduced vibrations compared to RE’s single-cylinder ‘thumpers.‘ The bike boasts impressive speed, achieving 0-60 mph in under 5 seconds with a top speed approaching 100 mph. A smooth 6-speed transmission paired with a slipper clutch ensures stability during downshifts and facilitates seamless gear changes. Furthermore, the bike achieves excellent fuel efficiency, yielding approximately 50-55 mpg, which helps minimize stops at the pump.
Modern Technology and Cruiser Comfort
Kawasaki has equipped the Eliminator with practical, modern technology, giving it a distinct edge. The digital instrument panel offers clear readouts of speed, RPM, fuel level, and gear position, a clear upgrade over the analog displays often found on classic cruisers. LED lighting front and rear ensures superior visibility for night riding. The Rideology app provides valuable smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth for access to ride data, notifications, and maintenance alerts.
The high-spec SE variant also includes a convenient USB-C port for charging and exclusive distinctive graphics. Comfort is prioritized with a low 28.9-inch seat height, forward-set footpegs, and wide handlebars, ensuring a relaxed posture suitable for long-distance journeys. Its lightweight trellis frame contributes to agile and responsive handling, contrasting with the heavier feel of some traditional cruiser designs.
Reliable Suspension and Brakes
The Eliminator delivers a balanced and comfortable ride quality. The front is handled by a 41mm telescopic front fork with 4.7 inches of travel, effectively soaking up road imperfections without feeling too soft. The rear features twin shock absorbers (3.1 inches of travel), which are preload-adjustable, providing a blend of classic cruiser looks and adequate comfort on varied road surfaces.
The braking system inspires confidence, utilizing a 310mm front disc with a twin-piston caliper and a 220mm rear disc. The ABS option, which is standard on the SE model, is a crucial safety feature that enhances control in challenging braking conditions—a key differentiator from some budget-focused Royal Enfield models.
