The Kawasaki Eliminator has always played an important role in the cruiser world. Big-displacement V-twins might be the icons of the segment, but they’re not exactly welcoming for someone just getting started. Heavy weight, tall price tags, and intimidating ergonomics can scare off new riders before they even turn a wheel.
That’s where the Eliminator steps in. It’s designed to give riders an easy way into the cruiser lifestyle without the learning curve of a massive bike.
At its core, the Eliminator is a simple recipe: lightweight, low seat, and a parallel-twin engine that delivers predictable power. The numbers tell the story. The bike is powered by a 398cc liquid-cooled four-stroke twin, producing 48 horsepower at 10,000 rpm and 27 pound-feet of torque at 8,000 rpm. It’s paired with a six-speed gearbox and a slipper clutch, making it forgiving for those still working on their shifting skills. The whole package tips the scales at just 390 pounds ready to ride, making it one of the more manageable cruisers out there.