New Delhi: Kawasaki India has expanded its product portfolio with the launch of two new motorcycles in the Indian market. The company has introduced the 2024 Z650RS, a retro-styled naked bike, and the 2024 Eliminator 400, a cruiser bike, at attractive price points. Both bikes come with modern engines, advanced features, and attractive designs.
Kawasaki Z650RS: A blend of retro and modern
The Kawasaki Z650RS is the latest addition to the Z series of Kawasaki, which is known for its naked street bikes. The Z650RS is inspired by the classic Z1 of the 1970s but with a modern twist. It has been launched at a price tag of Rs 6.99 lakh (ex-showroom) in India.
The Z650RS features a circular LED headlamp, twin analogue dials with a central digital readout, a teardrop fuel tank, and a sleek tail section. The bike has a low seat height of 790 mm and a kerb weight of 187 kg, making it easy to handle. The bike is being offered exclusively in Metallic Matte Carbon Gray in India, whereas in the global market, it is available in a variety of other colours, such as Candy Tone Green, Pearl Storm Gray, and Metallic Spark Black.
The Z650RS is powered by the same 649 cc, liquid-cooled, parallel-twin engine that does duty on the Ninja 650 and Versys 650. It is capable of delivering a power output of 67 bhp at 8,000 rpm and a peak torque of 64 Nm at 6,700 rpm. This mill is paired with a 6-speed gearbox along with an assist and slip clutch, which reduces the lever effort and prevents wheel hop during downshifts.
The key update in the 2024 Z650RS is the inclusion of traction control, offering two modes for riders to choose from. Mode 1 is for sporty riding, while Mode 2 is for slippery conditions. The traction control can also be turned off completely. The bike also comes with dual-channel ABS as standard.
The Z650RS utilises a tubular diamond frame with 41 mm telescopic forks in the front and a horizontal back-link mono-shock at the rear, offering 125 mm and 130 mm of travel, respectively for suspension duties. The bike rides on 17-inch alloy wheels shod with 120/70 front and 160/60 rear tyres. Braking is managed by dual 272 mm discs in the front and a 186 mm disc at the rear, with Nissin callipers.
Kawasaki Eliminator 400: A cruiser for the masses
In addition to the Z650RS, Kawasaki has also unveiled the Eliminator 400 for all global markets. This upcoming 2024 Kawasaki Eliminator 400 is scheduled to be launched on March 23 in India. The Eliminator 400 is a cruiser bike that aims to offer a comfortable and relaxed riding experience.
The Eliminator 400 features a round headlamp, a large fuel tank, a low-slung seat, a swept-back handlebar, and a chrome-finished exhaust. The bike has a seat height of 690 mm and a kerb weight of 204 kg. The bike is expected to be offered in two colours in India, Metallic Matte Graphite Gray and Ebony.
The Eliminator 400 is powered by the same 399 cc, parallel twin-cylinder, DOHC, 4V liquid-cooled engine that does duty on the Ninja 400 and Z400. It is capable of producing a power output of 48 bhp at 9,000 rpm and a peak torque of 37 Nm at 7,000 rpm. This engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox with a slipper clutch.
The Eliminator 400 uses a trellis frame with 41 mm telescopic forks in the front and a twin shock setup at the rear, offering 120 mm and 90 mm of travel, respectively for suspension duties. The bike rides on 18-inch front and 15-inch rear alloy wheels wrapped with 130/70 front and 170/80 rear tyres. Braking is handled by a 300 mm disc in the front and a 220 mm disc at the rear, with ABS as standard.
The Eliminator 400 also comes with a digital instrument cluster, a USB charging port, and a 12-litre fuel tank. The bike is expected to be priced at around Rs 4.5 lakh (ex-showroom) in India.
