Kawasaki Eliminator 2025 Review: Japanese Cruiser That Outpaces Royal Enfield with 160 km/h Top Speed
The cruiser motorcycle market in India is heating up, and Kawasaki has brought in a strong contender with the Eliminator 2025. This Japanese cruiser combines classic styling with modern technology and powerful performance, offering something different from the usual Royal Enfield dominance. With a top speed of 160 km/h, smooth ride quality, and premium features, the Eliminator 2025 is designed for riders who want both comfort and speed in one package.
Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Kawasaki Eliminator 2025 |
| Engine | 451cc Liquid-Cooled, Parallel-Twin |
| Power | 48 bhp approx. |
| Torque | 42 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Gearbox |
| Top Speed | 160 km/h |
| Mileage | 28–30 km/l (approx.) |
| Seat Height | 735 mm |
| Price (India) | ₹5.5 – ₹6 lakh (expected, ex-showroom) |
| Key Rivals | Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650, Honda Rebel 500 |
Design & Style
The Kawasaki Eliminator 2025 stays true to the cruiser DNA with its long wheelbase, low-slung design, and relaxed riding ergonomics. At the front, you get a round LED headlamp that gives it a retro appeal, while the clean fuel tank and minimalist side panels add a modern touch. The wide handlebars and forward-set foot pegs ensure a comfortable stance for long rides.
Unlike the bulkier Royal Enfield cruisers, the Eliminator has a leaner and more athletic look. It weighs less, making it easier to manage in city traffic while still looking imposing enough on highways. With a low seat height of just 735 mm, it is also accessible to shorter riders.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Eliminator 2025 is a 451cc parallel-twin liquid-cooled engine, which is derived from Kawasaki’s Ninja 400 platform. It delivers around 48 bhp of power and 42 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed gearbox.
This engine is smooth, refined, and offers strong acceleration. While Royal Enfield cruisers top out at lower speeds, the Eliminator can comfortably cruise at 120 km/h and stretch all the way to 160 km/h, giving it a clear edge for long-distance touring. The assist-and-slipper clutch also makes gearshifts lighter and reduces wheel lock during aggressive downshifting.
Ride & Handling
The Eliminator is designed to be a comfortable cruiser, and Kawasaki has tuned its ride quality accordingly. The telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers absorb bumps well, while the low center of gravity ensures excellent stability on highways.
Its 18-inch front wheel and 16-inch rear wheel provide a balanced cruiser stance, while the wide tyres offer good grip on different road surfaces. The disc brakes at both ends with dual-channel ABS provide strong and confident stopping power.
One of the highlights of the Eliminator is how easy it feels to ride compared to bulkier cruisers. Despite being a mid-capacity bike, it is light and nimble, making it suitable for city traffic as well as open highways.
Features & Tech
Kawasaki has equipped the Eliminator 2025 with a mix of retro styling and modern technology. Key features include:
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All-LED Lighting for headlamp, tail-lamp, and indicators
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Digital LCD Instrument Cluster with speed, tachometer, fuel gauge, and gear indicator
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Bluetooth Connectivity for smartphone pairing and ride data
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Dual-Channel ABS for safe braking
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Slipper Clutch for smooth downshifts
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USB Charging Port for convenience
The bike balances practicality with rider-focused features without going overboard.
Mileage & Fuel Efficiency
While cruisers are not typically bought for mileage, the Eliminator offers decent efficiency for its class. Riders can expect around 28–30 km/l, depending on riding conditions. With its fuel tank capacity of around 13 litres, it can cover close to 350–380 km on a full tank—good enough for weekend touring without frequent fuel stops.
Price & Variants
The Kawasaki Eliminator 2025 is priced competitively for a mid-capacity cruiser. In India, it is expected to cost between ₹5.5 lakh and ₹6 lakh (ex-showroom).
Currently, it is available in a single standard variant internationally, but Kawasaki may introduce different color options and special editions for the Indian market.
FAQs
Q1: What is the top speed of the Kawasaki Eliminator 2025?
It can reach up to 160 km/h, making it faster than most cruisers in its class.
Q2: How does it compare to Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650?
The Eliminator is lighter, more agile, and offers smoother performance, while the Super Meteor is bulkier and more classic in feel.
Q3: Is it beginner-friendly?
Yes, with a low seat height and manageable weight, it is suitable for new riders who want to step up to a mid-capacity cruiser.
Q4: What mileage does it deliver?
Around 28–30 km/l under mixed riding conditions.
Q5: What is the expected price in India?
Between ₹5.5 – ₹6 lakh (ex-showroom).
Final Verdict
The Kawasaki Eliminator 2025 is a refreshing addition to the cruiser motorcycle market in India. It blends Japanese engineering reliability with cruiser comfort, offering smooth power delivery, modern features, and impressive top-end performance. Its ability to hit 160 km/h sets it apart from traditional rivals like Royal Enfield.
If you are looking for a cruiser that is stylish, easy to ride, and capable of long-distance touring while still being practical for city use, the Eliminator 2025 makes a very strong case for itself. It is the perfect choice for riders who want a modern alternative to the classic Royal Enfield charm.