India Kawasaki Motor has introduced the new Kawasaki Eliminator cruiser to the Indian market, priced at โน5.62 lakh (ex-showroom). The Eliminator 500 made its global debut in the previous year and has been gradually expanding its presence in various markets, including India.
The name โEliminator’ holds significance in Kawasaki’s portfolio, and its return is likely to attract considerable attention. Bookings for the cruiser are now open at Kawasaki dealerships across the country.
This motor has larger 32mm throttle bodies, a larger airbox, and a 6.8mm longer stroke. This engine is significantly lower at the redline and produces greater torque than the 400, thanks to Kawasaki’s development.
At 9,000 rpm, peak power is 45 horsepower, and at 6,000 rpm, peak torque is 42.6 Nm. Additionally, this engine debuted at EICMA 2023 in the new Ninja Kawasaki 500 and Z500. With a slip/assist clutch, a six-speed gearbox transfers power to the back wheel.
A completely rebuilt design with two rear shocks powers the Eliminator 500. This will give the bike a more vintage cruiser appearance in contrast to its larger sibling, the Vulcan 650, which is equipped with a monoshock.
Still, there are a lot of parallels with the Vulcan. Similar to the Vulcan, this motorcycle is low to the ground and sports a big 18-inch front wheel. However, the Eliminator’s rear wheel is 16 inches, while the Vulcan’s is 17 inches. One 310mm disc up front and one 240mm disc at the back are used for braking. ABS with dual channels will be the norm.
The Eliminator 500’s low seat height of 734mm will appeal to riders who are shorter. This motorbike, like the Kawasaki Vulcan 650, features Kawasaki’s ergo-fit system, which gives buyers an assortment of customizable handlebar and foot peg configurations.
The bike has 150mm of ground clearance and weighs 176 kg, which is significantly less than the 226 kilogram (US-spec) Vulcan.
The Eliminator 500 has a higher price tag because it is imported into India as CKD, and its closest competitors are the recently released Royal Enfield Shotgun 650 and the Benelli 502C.