The Indian motorcycle market has always been dominated by Royal Enfield when it comes to cruisers. Models like the Classic 350, Meteor 350, and Super Meteor 650 continue to set benchmarks in style, performance, and emotional connection with riders. However, Kawasaki, the Japanese giant known for its Ninja sport bikes, is preparing a big comeback in the cruiser segment with the all-new Kawasaki Eliminator 2025 (451cc).
This new offering is expected to blend Kawasaki’s engineering excellence with a cruiser’s laid-back character, directly challenging Royal Enfield’s dominance. But can it really dethrone the king? Let’s dive deep into everything you need to know.
A Quick Background – The Legacy of the Kawasaki Eliminator
The Kawasaki Eliminator has been around in different avatars since the 1980s, initially designed as a power cruiser with influences from drag racing. Over the years, it has evolved from big-bore versions (like the Eliminator 900) to smaller, commuter-friendly ones for Asian markets.
The 2025 Kawasaki Eliminator 451cc is a modern revival of that heritage. Positioned as a mid-capacity cruiser, it targets riders who want the comfort of a cruiser but the refinement and reliability of a Japanese bike.
Engine & Performance – The Heart of the Beast
The 2025 Eliminator gets a 451cc liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine derived from Kawasaki’s Ninja 400 platform.
Key Engine Specs:
- Displacement: 451cc
- Configuration: Parallel-twin, DOHC, liquid-cooled
- Power Output: ~47 bhp @ 9,000 rpm (expected)
- Torque: ~42 Nm @ 6,000 rpm
- Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with slipper clutch
- Top Speed: ~160 km/h
- Mileage: ~25–28 km/l (estimated)
This engine is tuned for linear torque delivery, making it easy for city riding while still offering highway cruising comfort.
Design & Styling – Modern Meets Retro
The Eliminator 2025 takes a neo-cruiser approach. Unlike bulky American-style cruisers, Kawasaki has opted for a sleeker, sportier look.
Design Highlights:
- Low Seat Height (~735mm) for comfortable stance
- Round LED Headlamp with modern DRLs
- Sculpted Fuel Tank (13-litre capacity)
- Blackout Engine & Exhaust for premium appeal
- Minimalist Rear End with LED tail light
- Mid-set Foot Pegs for a relaxed yet slightly sporty posture
This design bridges the gap between a classic cruiser and a modern street bike, appealing to both young and mature riders.
Features – Technology That Enhances Cruising
Kawasaki has equipped the Eliminator 451cc with features that give it an edge over traditional cruisers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Instrument Cluster | Fully-digital LCD with Bluetooth |
| Connectivity | Kawasaki Rideology app integration |
| ABS | Dual-channel standard |
| Brakes | Front 310mm disc, Rear 240mm disc |
| Suspension (Front) | 41mm telescopic fork |
| Suspension (Rear) | Twin shocks with preload adjust |
| Wheels | 18-inch front, 16-inch rear |
| Tyres | Tubeless, wide-section cruiser tyres |
| Lighting | Full LED setup |
| Seat Height | ~735 mm (accessible for shorter riders) |
This tech-forward approach makes it more modern than most Royal Enfield cruisers, which still carry semi-analog instrument consoles.
Comfort & Ergonomics – Built for Long Rides
One of the Eliminator’s biggest strengths is its ergonomics. Unlike sport bikes, this cruiser offers a relaxed upright riding position.
- Wide Handlebars for easy city maneuverability
- Low Seat Height ensures confidence for shorter riders
- Mid-set Foot Pegs allow balance between comfort and control
- Cushioned Seat ideal for touring
- Suspension Setup tuned for Indian road conditions
Compared to Royal Enfield, the Eliminator offers a slightly sportier posture, making it versatile for both city and highway rides.
Kawasaki Eliminator 451cc vs Royal Enfield Meteor 350 – Comparison Table
| Aspect | Kawasaki Eliminator 451cc | Royal Enfield Meteor 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 451cc, parallel-twin | 349cc, single-cylinder |
| Power Output | ~47 bhp | ~20.2 bhp |
| Torque | ~42 Nm | ~27 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 5-speed |
| Top Speed | ~160 km/h | ~120 km/h |
| Mileage | 25–28 km/l (expected) | 32–35 km/l |
| Weight | ~176 kg | ~191 kg |
| Seat Height | ~735 mm | 765 mm |
| Price (Expected) | ₹5.2 – ₹5.6 lakh | ₹2.2 – ₹2.6 lakh |
Clearly, the Kawasaki Eliminator is more powerful and modern, but Royal Enfield wins on affordability and mileage.
Price & Variants – Premium but Worth It
The Kawasaki Eliminator 2025 is expected to launch in India at an ex-showroom price of ₹5.2–₹5.6 lakh.
Expected Variants:
- Standard – Base trim with essential features.
- SE (Special Edition) – Additional graphics, better seat, premium paint.
Compared to Royal Enfield, the Eliminator is more than double the price, but it justifies that with higher performance, Japanese reliability, and advanced features.
Maintenance & Ownership Costs
One concern Indian buyers often have with Kawasaki bikes is high service cost.
- Service Interval: Every 6,000 km
- Average Service Cost: ₹6,000–₹8,000 per visit
- Spare Parts: More expensive than Royal Enfield
- Resale Value: Moderate, as Kawasaki bikes hold niche appeal
This makes it costlier to own than Royal Enfield, but buyers get a refined, global-standard motorcycle.
Kawasaki Eliminator 451cc vs Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650
Another interesting comparison is with Royal Enfield’s flagship cruiser, the Super Meteor 650.
| Aspect | Kawasaki Eliminator 451cc | Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 451cc, parallel-twin | 648cc, parallel-twin |
| Power Output | ~47 bhp | ~47 bhp |
| Torque | ~42 Nm | ~52 Nm |
| Transmission | 6-speed | 6-speed |
| Top Speed | ~160 km/h | ~170 km/h |
| Mileage | 25–28 km/l | 20–22 km/l |
| Weight | ~176 kg | ~241 kg |
| Seat Height | ~735 mm | 740 mm |
| Price (Ex-showroom) | ₹5.2 – ₹5.6 lakh | ₹3.5 – ₹3.8 lakh |
Here, the Super Meteor 650 offers more torque at a cheaper price, but the Eliminator is lighter, more agile, and more refined for city use.
Strengths of the Kawasaki Eliminator 451cc
- Modern Japanese Reliability – Smooth engine, fewer breakdowns.
- Powerful Yet Manageable – Enough for highways but easy in traffic.
- Premium Design & Features – Stands apart from retro cruisers.
- Low Seat Height – Friendly for all riders, including shorter ones.
- Sporty Edge – Unlike traditional slow cruisers, it has agility.
Limitations Compared to Royal Enfield
- Higher Price – Almost double Meteor 350’s cost.
- Higher Maintenance Costs – Service and spares are premium-priced.
- Limited Dealer Network – RE has 2,000+ outlets, Kawasaki far fewer.
- Lower Mileage – Not as fuel-efficient as RE bikes.
Who Should Buy the Kawasaki Eliminator 451cc?
The Eliminator is not for everyone. It is for:
- Riders who want a cruiser with modern performance.
- People upgrading from 250cc or 300cc bikes.
- Enthusiasts who value Japanese refinement over cost savings.
- Urban riders who want a low-seat, stylish city cruiser.
On the other hand, if budget, mileage, and resale are top priorities, Royal Enfield remains unbeatable.
FAQs – Kawasaki Eliminator 2025
Q1: What is the mileage of Kawasaki Eliminator 451cc?
A: It offers 25–28 km/l (expected).
Q2: What is the seat height?
A: Around 735 mm, making it one of the most accessible cruisers.
Q3: Does it compete with Royal Enfield Meteor 350?
A: Yes, but in terms of pricing, it sits closer to Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650.
Q4: What is the expected price in India?
A: ₹5.2–₹5.6 lakh (ex-showroom).
Q5: Is it suitable for touring?
A: Absolutely, with a comfortable riding posture and refined engine, it is touring-friendly.