The Kawasaki Eliminator 2025, launched in India on April 17, 2025, is a mid-size cruiser motorcycle blending retro styling with modern performance. Priced at ₹5.76 lakh (ex-showroom), a ₹14,000 increase from its 2024 predecessor, it competes with the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 and Honda Rebel 500 in the sub-500cc cruiser segment. Targeting urban riders and cruiser enthusiasts, it offers a low seat height, accessible design, and Ninja-derived performance. Here’s a detailed review of its price, specifications, features, and performance in India as of August 30, 2025.
Retro-Modern Design
The Kawasaki Eliminator 2025 features a classic cruiser silhouette with a low-slung stance, raked-out front end, and a single color option: Metallic Flat Spark Black. Measuring 2250 x 785 x 1100 mm and weighing 176 kg (kerb), it sports a 13-litre teardrop fuel tank, round LED headlamp, and chopped rear fender. The 18-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels, fitted with 130/70-18 and 150/80-16 tubeless tires, enhance its bobber-like aesthetic. The exposed trellis frame and brushed copper exhaust add character, though the visible wiring and engine plumbing slightly detract from its premium appeal.
With a 735 mm seat height and 150 mm ground clearance, it’s accessible for shorter riders but may scrape on steep speed breakers. The IP54 splash resistance protects against light rain, though it’s less robust than IP68-rated competitors.
Modern Features and Ergonomics
The round LCD instrument console offers Bluetooth connectivity via Kawasaki’s Rideology app, displaying speed, tachometer (bar-style), gear position, odometer, dual trip meters, fuel gauge, remaining range, average mileage, coolant temperature, and smartphone notifications (calls/messages). Features like LED lighting, USB-C charging port, and hazard lights add practicality, but the absence of navigation, traction control, or riding modes feels limiting at this price point. The ERGO-FIT system allows customization of handlebars, footpegs, and seat for rider comfort.
The upright riding posture, wide handlebars, and forward-set footpegs ensure a relaxed stance for city and highway cruising, though the firm twin rear shocks may cause discomfort on long rides over rough roads. The split seat option enhances pillion comfort, but it’s not standard on all variants.
Strong Performance
Powered by a 451cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin, DOHC, 8-valve engine (shared with the Ninja 500), the Eliminator 2025 delivers 44.7 bhp at 9000 rpm and 42.6 Nm at 7500 rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox and slip-and-assist clutch. Its long-stroke configuration prioritizes low-end torque, ideal for urban commuting at 50 kmph in sixth gear or highway cruising at 100-120 kmph, with a top speed of ~160 kmph and 0-100 kmph in ~5.5 seconds. The engine is smooth, with minor vibrations at higher RPMs, and the large 5.8L airbox enhances throttle response and intake sound.
The ARAI-claimed mileage is 30 kmpl, with real-world figures averaging 29-31.45 kmpl (expert tests report 31.45 kmpl in mixed conditions), offering a range of ~390-400 km. The high-tensile steel trellis frame, 41mm telescopic front forks (120 mm travel), and twin rear shocks (90 mm travel) ensure nimble handling, though the rear suspension may feel firm on potholes.
Safety and Braking
Equipped with dual-channel ABS, a 310 mm front disc with a dual-piston caliper, and a 240 mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper, the Eliminator offers predictable braking with excellent bite and progression. The Nissin ABS unit is non-intrusive, enhancing safety without compromising feel. The low center of gravity and lightweight chassis (176 kg) ensure easy maneuverability, making it beginner-friendly, though the sharp turn-in requires acclimatization for precise cornering.
Pricing and Availability
Priced at ₹5.76 lakh (ex-showroom, single STD variant), the on-road price in Delhi is approximately ₹6.63-7.10 lakh, including RTO (₹46,080-50,080) and insurance (₹21,000-25,000). Available at Kawasaki India dealerships (e.g., JBM Kawasaki Chennai), BikeWale, Zigwheels, and Bajaj Finserv outlets, it offers EMI starting at ₹10,377/month (10% down payment, 3-year tenure, 8.5% interest), ₹15,000-30,000 exchange bonuses, and bank discounts (HDFC, SBI, ICICI). Maintenance costs average ₹8,000-12,000 annually, supported by Kawasaki’s 100+ service centers, though availability is limited compared to Royal Enfield’s network. Delivery times range from 7-30 days, with high demand for the sole black color.
User Feedback and Drawbacks
Users praise the low 735 mm seat height, torquey Ninja-derived engine, retro styling, and fuel efficiency (31.45 kmpl in tests), with the slip-and-assist clutch and LED lighting enhancing urban usability. The bike’s lively handling and throaty exhaust appeal to cruiser enthusiasts, and the ERGO-FIT system suits diverse riders. Drawbacks include:
- High price (₹5.76 lakh ex-showroom), costlier than the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 (₹3.68 lakh).
- Limited color option (only Metallic Flat Spark Black), reducing customization appeal.
- Firm rear suspension, causing discomfort on rough Indian roads.
- No advanced tech like navigation or traction control, lagging behind the Triumph Speed 400.
- Limited service network, with fewer outlets and longer part delivery times compared to competitors.
Comparison with Competitors
The Kawasaki Eliminator 2025 competes with:
- Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 (₹3.68 lakh, 648cc, 47 bhp): Cheaper, with higher displacement and wider service network, but less refined engine and no digital cluster.
- Honda Rebel 500 (₹5.12 lakh, 471cc, 45.5 bhp): More affordable, but heavier (191 kg) and less feature-rich.
- Jawa Perak (₹2.19 lakh, 334cc, 30.2 bhp): Lower price and similar bobber style, but lacks modern features like LED lighting.
The Eliminator excels with its lightweight chassis, torquey engine, and low seat height, but its high price and limited service reach are drawbacks.
Final Thoughts
The Kawasaki Eliminator 2025, launched in India on April 17, 2025, is a stylish cruiser with a 451cc parallel-twin engine delivering 44.7 bhp, a digital LCD cluster with Rideology app connectivity, and dual-channel ABS. Its retro design, 735 mm seat height, and 31.45 kmpl mileage make it ideal for urban and highway cruising. Priced at ₹5.76 lakh, it’s an expensive proposition, with firm suspension, limited colors, and a smaller service network as drawbacks. Backed by Kawasaki’s growing support, it’s a compelling choice for riders seeking a premium, approachable cruiser in India’s sub-500cc segment.
