In a bold move that’s set to shake up the cruiser market, Kawasaki has resurrected its iconic Eliminator nameplate for 2024.
This new iteration isn’t just a nostalgic nod to the past; it’s a thoroughly modern machine that aims to carve out a unique niche in the motorcycle world.
With its blend of cruiser styling, sporty performance, and beginner-friendly features, the 2024 Kawasaki Eliminator is poised to make waves in the industry.
A Legacy Reborn
The Eliminator name carries significant weight in Kawasaki’s history. First introduced in 1985 with the ZL900 Eliminator, the original model was a groundbreaking machine that combined the high-performance engine of a sport bike with cruiser styling.
It was a “muscle cruiser” before the term even existed, capable of hitting 60 mph in under 3 seconds – a feat that turned heads and dropped jaws nearly four decades ago.
Now, Kawasaki has brought the Eliminator back, but with a different mission.
Rather than chasing outright performance, the 2024 model aims to strike a perfect balance between accessibility for new riders and enough excitement to keep more experienced motorcyclists engaged.
Engine: Heart of a Ninja, Soul of a Cruiser
At the core of the new Eliminator is a 451cc parallel-twin engine, derived from the popular Ninja 400 sport bike.
However, Kawasaki’s engineers didn’t simply transplant the engine; they reworked it to better suit the Eliminator’s character. The stroke has been lengthened by 6.8mm, resulting in a larger displacement and a power delivery more suited to cruiser-style riding.
While Kawasaki hasn’t officially released horsepower figures, inside sources suggest the Eliminator produces around 52 horsepower at 10,000 rpm and 32 foot-pounds of torque at 8,000 rpm. These numbers represent a significant bump over the Ninja 400, promising lively performance that belies the bike’s cruiser styling.
The engine retains its high-revving nature, with peak power coming in at the upper reaches of the tachometer. This characteristic might surprise riders expecting a typical cruiser’s low-end grunt, but it adds a sporty flair that sets the Eliminator apart from its competitors.
One potential drawback for purists is the engine’s sound. Kawasaki has stuck with a 180-degree crankshaft, rather than the increasingly popular 270-degree setup found in many modern parallel twins.
As a result, the Eliminator lacks the throaty rumble some might expect from a cruiser, instead producing a higher-pitched, more mechanical sound reminiscent of its sport bike origins.
Chassis and Handling: Cruiser Looks, Sporty Feels
The Eliminator’s frame is all-new, designed to provide the long, low silhouette of a classic cruiser while maintaining handling characteristics more akin to a standard motorcycle. With a wheelbase of 59.8 inches and a rake of 30 degrees, the Eliminator strikes a balance between straight-line stability and cornering agility.
One of the most notable features is the bike’s low seat height of just 28.9 inches (735mm). This makes the Eliminator incredibly accessible to shorter riders or those new to motorcycling. For those who need even more options, Kawasaki offers accessories to lower the seat by an additional 20mm or raise it by 30mm, allowing for a truly customized fit.
Despite its cruiser styling, the Eliminator’s riding position is surprisingly neutral. The footpegs are centrally located rather than stretched forward, and the handlebars offer a natural reach. This ergonomic setup, combined with a claimed curb weight of just 388 pounds (with ABS), results in a machine that’s easy to maneuver at low speeds and confidence-inspiring when the pace picks up.
Suspension and Brakes: Budget-Friendly but Capable
In keeping with its entry-level price point, the Eliminator’s suspension components are relatively basic but well-tuned for their intended purpose. The front fork is a non-adjustable 41mm unit, while twin shocks handle rear suspension duties. While not plush by high-end cruiser standards, the setup provides a comfortable ride for urban environments and light touring.
Braking is handled by a single 310mm disc up front, gripped by a two-piston caliper, and a 240mm rear disc with a single-piston caliper. ABS is available as an option on base models and comes standard on the SE trim. Initial reviews suggest that while not outstanding, the brakes are more than adequate for the Eliminator’s intended use and power output.
Technology and Features: Modern Touches for Today’s Rider
Despite its classic-inspired looks, the 2024 Eliminator doesn’t skimp on modern amenities. All lighting is LED, including a distinctive headlight that combines low and high beam chambers with position lamps for a unique nighttime signature.
The instrument cluster is a compact LCD unit that provides all essential information at a glance. It includes a gear position indicator, fuel gauge, and even an estimated range display – features not always found on bikes in this class.
Kawasaki has also embraced the connected era with the Eliminator. An optional Bluetooth module allows riders to connect their smartphones to the bike, enabling turn-by-turn navigation display on the instrument panel and access to vehicle information through Kawasaki’s Rideology app.
Styling: A Modern Take on Classic Cues
Visually, the Eliminator manages to honor its namesake while carving out its own identity. The long, low profile is unmistakably cruiser, but details like the slim fuel tank and bobbed rear fender give it a contemporary edge. The blacked-out engine, frame, and components contribute to a sleek, cohesive look that should appeal to younger riders as well as those with more traditional tastes.
The SE model adds a few extra touches, including a small headlight cowl and fork boots that further emphasize the bike’s retro-modern aesthetic. It’s also the only version available in the eye-catching Candy Steel Furnace Orange/Ebony color scheme, which is sure to turn heads.
Market Positioning and Competition
Kawasaki has positioned the Eliminator to fill a gap in both its own lineup and the broader motorcycle market. It slots in between smaller capacity beginner bikes and larger, more intimidating cruisers, offering a stepping stone for new riders or a fun option for more experienced motorcyclists looking to downsize.
Its most direct competitor is likely the Honda Rebel 500, which has dominated this segment for years. The Eliminator counters with a lighter weight (388 pounds vs. the Rebel’s 414 pounds for ABS models) and potentially more spirited engine performance.
However, the Honda’s more traditional cruiser engine characteristics and lower price point (starting at $6,799 for the 2024 model) may still appeal to many buyers.
Royal Enfield’s Meteor 350 is another potential rival, offering classic styling and an even lower price point. However, its smaller engine and lower performance put it at a disadvantage against the more powerful Eliminator.
Pricing and Variants
Kawasaki is offering the Eliminator in three variants:
- Base model: MSRP $6,649
- ABS model: MSRP $6,949
- SE model (includes ABS, headlight cowl, USB-C outlet, fork boots, and two-tone seat): MSRP $7,249
While this pricing structure puts the Eliminator at the higher end of its segment, Kawasaki is betting that the bike’s performance, features, and brand cachet will justify the premium.
Kawasaki Eliminator : A Promising Revival
The 2024 Kawasaki Eliminator represents a thoughtful approach to bringing a storied nameplate into the modern era. By combining cruiser aesthetics with sport bike-derived performance and beginner-friendly ergonomics, Kawasaki has created a machine that could appeal to a wide range of riders.
For newcomers to motorcycling, the Eliminator offers an approachable yet exciting entry point. Its low seat height, manageable weight, and smooth power delivery make it an ideal learning platform. At the same time, its peppy engine and competent chassis ensure that more experienced riders won’t find it boring.
The Eliminator’s success will ultimately depend on how well it resonates with its target market. Will new riders be drawn to its blend of classic style and modern performance? Will experienced motorcyclists looking for a fun second bike or commuter find it engaging enough?
One thing is certain: the 2024 Kawasaki Eliminator is not simply a nostalgia play. It’s a thoroughly modern motorcycle that pays homage to its roots while carving out its own identity. In a market increasingly dominated by high-tech, high-performance machines, there’s something refreshing about a bike that focuses on the fundamentals of riding enjoyment.
As Kawasaki’s motto for the Eliminator suggests, sometimes you just need to “Just Ride.” With its combination of accessible performance, stylish looks, and modern features, the 2024 Eliminator seems well-equipped to deliver on that simple but powerful promise.