Kawasaki in the Philippines is popular for its sport bikes and workhorses, but the Japanese brand also has a long-standing reputation for producing budget-friendly and accessible cruisers. The Vulcan S 650 leads the charge in that arena.
However, in 2023, a new contender enters the scene at the Osaka Motor Show – the Kawasaki Eliminator 400. As the international motorcycle media takes notice of this exciting new cruiser, the question arises: Should Kawasaki bring the Eliminator 400 to the Philippines to rival the popular Honda Rebel 500?
The Eliminator 400 is not merely a smaller version of the Vulcan S 650. It boasts several distinct features that set it apart. The frame appears to be all-new, providing a fresh and appealing aesthetic. Additionally, the suspension setup and swingarm have been specifically designed for this model, ensuring a comfortable and smooth ride.
With a 41mm cartridge fork at the front and single disc brakes with two-piston calipers at both ends, the Eliminator 400 promises reliable handling and responsive braking. Its seat height of 735mm makes it incredibly accessible, allowing riders of varying heights to comfortably reach the ground. The inclusion of an LCD display and LED lighting throughout enhances both functionality and style.
The Eliminator 400’s engine is closely related to Kawasaki’s existing models, the Ninja and Z400. With an expected power output of around 49hp and torque in the range of 38Nm, this cruiser should deliver a balanced performance suitable for various riding scenarios. In comparison, the Honda Rebel 500 makes 46hp and around 40Nm of torque.
Kawasaki may choose to tune the engine slightly differently, prioritizing low-end grunts for enhanced acceleration and versatility.
The Eliminator 400 SE is a sight to behold, as well. This upgraded variant offers a Type-C USB port, a luxurious leather seat, and a Mitsuba Sankowa GPS-compatible driving recorder. The inclusion of a front and rear camera system allows riders to record their journeys in a convenient “dash-cam” style, enhancing safety and providing an exciting way to capture memories.
In Japan, the Eliminator 400 is priced at ¥759,000, which roughly converts to P305,000. In comparison, the Honda Rebel starts at P389,000. This competitive price point positions the Kawasaki cruiser as an attractive option for riders seeking a cost-effective yet feature-rich motorcycle.
With its unique design, promising performance, and competitive pricing, the Kawasaki Eliminator 400 has the potential to be a formidable rival to the Honda Rebel 500 in the Philippines. Kawasaki’s reputation for producing accessible cruisers, combined with the Eliminator 400’s distinctive features and customization options, make it an appealing choice for riders seeking an affordable yet stylish and powerful motorcycle.
As it stands, Kawasaki should seriously consider bringing the Eliminator 400 to the Philippine market, catering to the growing demand for budget-friendly cruisers and offering a compelling alternative to the Honda Rebel 500.