For decades, when Indians thought of cruisers, one name dominated the conversation—Royal Enfield. With its thumping exhaust note, timeless design, and cult following, RE has long enjoyed unrivaled dominance. But 2025 marks a turning point. A new player has entered the field, ready to challenge the status quo—the Kawasaki Eliminator 451.
With a 451cc twin-cylinder engine, Ninja-inspired engineering, modern design language, and an incredible 30 kmpl mileage, the Eliminator is rewriting the cruiser rulebook. It’s not just another motorcycle—it’s Kawasaki’s statement that cruisers can be futuristic, stylish, and practical without losing their core essence.
Table of Contents
Design & Style – A Cruiser with a Modern Twist
Unlike traditional retro-heavy designs, the Kawasaki Eliminator confidently crafts its own identity.
Highlights of the design:
- Long wheelbase, low stance, and stretched silhouette—true cruiser proportions
- Matte black finish across frame, engine, wheels, and exhaust for a stealthy look
- Round LED headlamp blends classic inspiration with modern tech
- Sculpted fuel tank and minimalist bodywork create a bold, aggressive appearance
- Fat rear tyre enhances stability and gives a muscular stance
The Eliminator is aimed at modern riders who admire tradition but crave contemporary styling—a perfect blend of old-school cruiser DNA with futuristic attitude.
Engine & Performance – Sportbike DNA Meets Cruiser Comfort
At the heart of the Eliminator lies its 451cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine, derived from the renowned Ninja 400 platform. Unlike lazy single-cylinder cruisers, this one thrives on refinement and performance.
Performance details:
- Power: ~49 PS
- Torque: ~42–45 Nm
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch
- Smooth linear torque delivery ensures effortless riding across city and highways
This unique balance allows the Eliminator to cruise comfortably at low revs while still packing a punch when the throttle is opened. It’s agile in traffic, powerful on highways, and far more refined than most rivals in its class.
Ride Comfort & Ergonomics – Built for Indian Riders
Cruisers are about comfort, and Kawasaki has ensured the Eliminator is accessible to a wide range of riders.
Key comfort features:
- Low seat height of 734 mm, perfect for shorter riders
- Lightweight build at 176 kg, making it easier to handle than heavier cruisers
- Upright handlebar and wide cushioned seat for relaxed long-distance riding
- Forward-set foot pegs to reduce fatigue on longer tours
- Suspension: Telescopic forks at the front and twin shocks at the rear
- Stability and comfort tuned for rough Indian roads
This setup ensures the Eliminator is equally at home in city commutes and long highway rides.
Technology & Features – Modern but Minimal
The Eliminator doesn’t overload with flashy electronics—it’s built to be functional yet stylish.
Standout features include:
- All-LED lighting for premium looks and better visibility
- Fully digital LCD console showing speed, gear, fuel, and trip data
- Bluetooth connectivity (on select variants) with call and message notifications
- USB-C charging port for phones and accessories
- Hazard light function for added safety on highways
Kawasaki’s philosophy is simple—integrate useful tech without compromising the pure riding experience.
Fuel Efficiency & Range – Performance Meets Economy
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the Eliminator is its practical mileage. Despite being a twin-cylinder 451cc motorcycle, it delivers around 30 kmpl.
With a 13-litre fuel tank, this translates to an impressive range of ~390 km on a single fill—making it a practical long-distance tourer without constant fuel stops.
Pricing & Value – Premium but Justified
At ₹5.62 lakh (ex-showroom), the Kawasaki Eliminator sits above Royal Enfield Meteor 350 and Honda H’ness CB350. While it appears costlier, buyers get:
- A twin-cylinder refined engine
- Lightweight, easy-to-handle design
- Superior engineering and reliability
- Futuristic styling with cruiser comfort
For riders seeking premium refinement and performance over nostalgic charm, the Eliminator is worth the extra price tag.
Kawasaki Eliminator – Quick Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 451cc Liquid-Cooled Parallel-Twin |
| Power | ~49 PS |
| Torque | ~42–45 Nm |
| Mileage | Up to 30 kmpl |
| Transmission | 6-Speed with Slipper Clutch |
| Kerb Weight | 176 kg |
| Seat Height | 734 mm |
| Fuel Tank | 13 litres (~390 km range) |
| Features | LED Lighting, Digital LCD, USB-C Port, Bluetooth (select variants) |
| Price | ₹5.62 lakh (Ex-Showroom) |
Kawasaki Eliminator vs Royal Enfield – Cruiser Face-Off
The Eliminator directly rivals Royal Enfield Meteor 350. While Meteor is more affordable and iconic, Kawasaki’s cruiser brings:
- Twin-cylinder engine for superior smoothness and power
- Lightweight, agile handling in city conditions
- Modern, futuristic styling over retro chrome-heavy design
- Higher refinement and long-distance comfort
For riders who want to move beyond nostalgia and embrace a modern cruiser lifestyle, the Eliminator is a game-changer.
Real-World Rider Scenarios
- City Commuter: Light weight and agility make it easy to maneuver in traffic.
- Touring Rider: Twin-cylinder engine ensures relaxed high-speed cruising.
- Beginner-Friendly Cruiser: Low seat and forgiving power delivery make it confidence-inspiring for new riders.
FAQs
Q1: What is the mileage of the Kawasaki Eliminator?
A = It offers up to 30 kmpl, excellent for a 451cc twin-cylinder engine.
Q2: Is the Kawasaki Eliminator beginner-friendly?
A = Yes, thanks to its low seat height and light weight, it’s easy even for new riders.
Q3: How does it compare with Royal Enfield Meteor 350?
A = The Meteor is more affordable and classic, but the Eliminator is more refined, powerful, and modern.
Final Verdict – A Cruiser for the Next Generation
The Kawasaki Eliminator 451 isn’t just another cruiser—it’s a bold reimagination of what a mid-size cruiser should be. With its Ninja-derived engine, futuristic yet practical design, rider-friendly ergonomics, and surprisingly efficient fuel economy, it appeals to both first-time big-bike buyers and seasoned enthusiasts.
For those who want to break away from traditional retro cruisers and embrace a modern, premium, and versatile ride, the Eliminator sets a new benchmark for the cruiser segment in India.
