India Kawasaki Teases Return of Iconic Eliminator with 2023 Model at India Bike Week
India Kawasaki Motor has set the stage for an exciting revelation at the upcoming 2023 India Bike Week (IBW) by releasing a teaser on its social media platforms. The teaser hints at the launch of a new motorcycle, shrouded in mystery, but speculation points towards the potential revival of the iconic Eliminator series.
While the specific details of the new model are yet to be unveiled, the teaser showcases a partially revealed wheel, suggesting a possible comeback of the Eliminator in a fresh iteration. The Eliminator series made its global debut earlier this year with the Kawasaki Eliminator 450, and its dedicated fan base in the Indian market eagerly awaits its return.
The Kawasaki Eliminator holds a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts, marking a nostalgic return for the Japanese manufacturer in India. The Eliminator has a rich history dating back to 1985 when it introduced a 900 cc inline four-cylinder engine. Over the years, various iterations followed with engine configurations ranging from 750, 600, 400, 250, 175, to 125 cc, maintaining a consistent presence in the market until the late 2000s. Notably, the Eliminator 175 evolved into the Bajaj Avenger 180 in India under the Bajaj-Kawasaki partnership.
The 2023 Kawasaki Eliminator 450, positioned below the Vulcan S in the brand’s lineup, boasts a sleek design with an all-black aesthetic. Features include a round LED headlamp, a voluminous fuel tank, low-set split seats, and an exposed frame, creating a distinctive cruiser profile. The cruiser offers a relaxed riding position with forward-set footpegs and a wide handlebar. The 451 cc parallel-twin cylinder, liquid-cooled engine generates 44.7 bhp at 9000 rpm and 42.6 Nm of peak torque at 6000 rpm, paired with a 6-speed gearbox.
Equipped with 18-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels, along with dual-channel ABS for enhanced safety, the Eliminator 450 promises a thrilling riding experience. In the UK, it goes by the name ‘Eliminator 500,’ leaving enthusiasts curious about the nomenclature for the Indian market. Anticipated pricing is expected to be around ₹5.5 lakh (ex-showroom), placing it between the Ninja 400 and Z650 in the Kawasaki product range. The Eliminator 450 is set to face competition in the segment, notably from the Keeway V302C V-Twin.
Enthusiasts and the biking community eagerly await the official unveiling at the India Bike Week, where the curtains will be lifted, and the new Kawasaki Eliminator will take center stage.
