The mid-weight cruiser market in India is heating up, and Kawasaki is ready to make a bold entry. The much-anticipated Kawasaki Eliminator 400 is expected to open for bookings in India soon, signaling a serious shake-up in the sub-500cc cruiser space.
After months of speculation, spy shots, and global hints, the Eliminator 400 now appears poised to challenge the likes of Royal Enfield Meteor 350, Honda CB350, and even the Harley-Davidson X440.
A New Cruiser Enters the Arena
Kawasaki is no stranger to cruisers. Models like the Vulcan S have already built a loyal fanbase. But with the Eliminator 400, the brand is targeting a younger, urban audience seeking a mix of style, performance, and everyday usability.
This 400cc bike made its debut in Japan and select international markets in 2023, and its Indian debut has been eagerly awaited. With growing interest in cruisers that blend retro design and modern tech, the Eliminator 400’s launch is well-timed for India’s evolving two-wheeler landscape.
Engine and Performance Details
The Eliminator 400 is powered by a 398cc, parallel-twin, liquid-cooled engine—the same base motor seen in the Kawasaki Ninja 400. However, for the Eliminator, the engine is tuned for a more relaxed power delivery suited to cruising. Expect around 48 PS of peak power and 38 Nm of torque, delivered smoothly through a 6-speed gearbox.
What sets this bike apart is its low-end grunt and accessible torque band, designed for city rides and highway cruising alike. Riders can expect that signature Kawasaki refinement, but in a laid-back cruiser format.
Styling and Ergonomics
The Eliminator 400 flaunts a low-slung design, round LED headlamp, flat handlebars, and a minimalist, clean stance. Its long wheelbase and stretched-out posture make it instantly identifiable as a cruiser. Kawasaki has focused on giving it a modern-classic look, with subtle muscular lines and a lightweight trellis frame.
The bike has a low seat height (around 735mm), making it friendly for shorter riders while offering a confident, feet-flat-down experience—something crucial in Indian traffic scenarios.
Features and Tech
Although detailed feature lists for the Indian version are yet to be confirmed, globally the bike comes with:
- Digital instrument cluster
- LED lighting all around
- Assist and slipper clutch
- Optional smartphone connectivity (Rideology app)
Kawasaki may keep the tech similar for the Indian trim, possibly with minor localization changes to keep costs in check.
Expected Pricing and Booking Timeline
While there’s no official price tag yet, the Eliminator 400 is likely to be priced just under ₹5 lakh (ex-showroom), depending on how aggressively Kawasaki positions it against rivals. If the company opts for CKD assembly instead of full import, pricing could become even more competitive.
Bookings are expected to begin in the coming weeks, possibly aligning with the festive season pre-orders, giving Kawasaki a good sales window for cruiser enthusiasts.
Cruiser Competition Heats Up
The cruiser segment in India, once dominated by Royal Enfield, is now witnessing a fresh wave of competitors. The Harley-Davidson X440, Honda CB350, and Jawa 42 Bobber have expanded choices in the sub-₹3 lakh category. Kawasaki, with its premium branding and performance credentials, is looking to carve its niche slightly higher, offering a blend of Japanese reliability and cruiser charm.
Also Read:- Yamaha Aerox 155 2025 Variant Launches with New Digital Upgrades
Final Thoughts
The Kawasaki Eliminator 400’s arrival marks a serious commitment to the growing interest in stylish, middleweight cruisers in India. For riders who want a Japanese-engineered alternative to the current options, the Eliminator could be the next big thing. With bookings about to begin, anticipation is high, and Kawasaki fans have reason to be excited.
