Kawasaki has introduced the 2025 Eliminator 500 cruiser motorcycle in the Indian market, priced at Rs 5.76 lakh (ex-showroom). The bike has been imported via the CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route and assembled locally. Compared to its earlier version, this model sees a price hike of Rs 14,000. However, this increase in cost is not accompanied by any visible updates in terms of design, hardware, or colour options. Despite the unchanged design, the Eliminator 500 continues to be a compelling option in the mid-size cruiser segment, known for its balanced mix of classic aesthetics and modern mechanicals.
Timeless Design with Modern Muscle
Kawasaki’s Eliminator lineup has always been celebrated for its heritage-inspired cruiser styling, and the 2025 Eliminator 500 continues that legacy. The motorcycle features a sleek yet muscular profile, designed to appeal to both seasoned riders and new enthusiasts. The bike’s clean lines and exposed mechanical components, including the trellis frame and engine block, give it a rugged and industrial vibe.
A round headlamp at the front sets the retro tone, flanked by minimalist LED turn indicators and traditional round rearview mirrors. The sculpted fuel tank adds to the bike’s classic design language, while still offering a modern edge. These elements come together to provide the Eliminator 500 with a distinct personality that’s both nostalgic and contemporary.
Adding to its visual appeal is the 2-into-1 exhaust system with burnished copper detailing, and a brushed metallic finish on the heat shield. This not only breaks the monotony of the all-black paint scheme but also adds a premium touch to the overall look. The split-seat layout, wide handlebar, and slightly forward-set footpegs contribute to the cruiser stance and comfortable riding ergonomics.
Comfort and Ergonomics Built for Long Hauls
Kawasaki has ensured that the Eliminator 500 offers exceptional comfort for long-distance travel. The seating setup has been designed keeping rider convenience in mind. The low seat height of just 735 mm makes it easily manageable for riders of all heights, offering excellent balance and control whether navigating city traffic or cruising down the highway.
The wide and scooped rider seat provides ample cushioning and support, making long rides fatigue-free. The bike’s upright riding position and well-positioned foot pegs ensure that the rider maintains an ergonomic posture, reducing strain on the back and shoulders. These design choices reflect Kawasaki’s intent to make the Eliminator 500 not just a performance-oriented machine, but also a practical everyday cruiser.
Feature-Rich Without Overcomplication
While the 2025 Eliminator 500 maintains a classic design, it does not shy away from modern features. The lighting system is entirely LED-based, including the headlamp, tail lamp, and indicators. This not only enhances visibility and safety but also adds to the bike’s modern appeal.
The instrumentation is handled by a round all-digital LCD display, seamlessly blending retro design with digital functionality. It shows a wide range of information such as gear position indicator, bar-style tachometer, odometer, fuel gauge, trip meter, and a digital clock. Riders can connect their smartphones via Bluetooth using Kawasaki’s proprietary RIDEOLOGY THE APP. Through the app, users can access call notifications, ride logs, maintenance alerts, and fuel levels. However, the bike does not come equipped with advanced electronic rider aids like traction control, multiple riding modes, or built-in navigation – a trade-off that purists may appreciate for the analog-like riding experience.
Metallic Flat Spark Black – A Bold Statement
The Eliminator 500 is offered in a single colour option – Metallic Flat Spark Black – across the Indian market. This all-black theme perfectly complements the motorcycle’s timeless cruiser styling. Internationally as well, Kawasaki has chosen to stick with this stealthy black theme, which is well-loved among cruiser enthusiasts. The only visual highlights come from the copper-toned exhaust pipes and brushed silver accents on the exhaust shield. These subtle touches help maintain the bike’s classic appearance without appearing outdated.
Engine and Performance – Refined and Responsive
Under the hood, the Kawasaki Eliminator 500 is powered by a 451cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that churns out 45 PS of peak power and 42.6 Nm of torque. This engine setup is derived from the Ninja 400 platform but has been tuned to deliver better low-end and mid-range torque, making it ideal for relaxed highway cruising and city commuting alike.
The engine is paired with a 6-speed return-type transmission, offering smooth and precise gear shifts. The inclusion of an assist and slipper clutch as standard helps reduce clutch effort and prevents rear-wheel hopping during aggressive downshifting. This adds another layer of control and safety to the bike’s overall rideability.
Underpinnings and Handling
The Eliminator 500 is built on a high-tensile steel trellis frame, which offers a solid yet lightweight foundation. Suspension duties are handled by telescopic forks at the front and a preload-adjustable swingarm setup at the rear. This configuration provides a balanced ride, capable of absorbing road imperfections while still maintaining stability during cornering and high-speed cruising.
The motorcycle rolls on an 18-inch front wheel and a 16-inch rear wheel, shod with wide tubeless tyres – 130/70 at the front and 150/80 at the rear. This setup offers excellent road grip and enhances the bike’s overall presence on the road.
Braking duties are managed by a 310 mm disc at the front and a 240 mm disc at the rear, both backed by dual-channel ABS. The braking system provides confident stopping power, suitable for various road and traffic conditions.
Market Position and Rivals
In the Indian market, the 2025 Kawasaki Eliminator 500 sits in a niche segment. It doesn’t face any direct competition, which works in its favor. However, for those seeking a more budget-friendly alternative, the Royal Enfield Super Meteor 650 emerges as a viable option. Priced significantly lower at Rs 3.68 lakh (ex-showroom), the Super Meteor 650 offers similar cruiser appeal with a larger displacement engine and a strong heritage following.
That said, the Eliminator 500 appeals to a different kind of buyer—someone who appreciates Kawasaki’s engineering finesse, refined power delivery, and understated design. It’s for the rider who prefers a modern, reliable cruiser with just the right amount of old-school character and modern features.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Kawasaki Eliminator 500 strikes a compelling balance between form and function. With its timeless cruiser styling, accessible ergonomics, and refined twin-cylinder engine, it delivers a riding experience that’s engaging yet comfortable. While the price tag is on the higher side, especially considering the lack of advanced electronic aids, the Eliminator 500 is built for riders who prioritize simplicity, performance, and iconic design. It may not boast flashy tech or multiple colour options, but what it offers is a confident and connected ride that embodies the spirit of classic motorcycling—with a modern Kawasaki twist.