2024 Kawasaki Eliminator Review | Daily Rider
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 20 พ.ค. 2024
- rvz.la/3Q3GQJJ | For all your motorcycling needs!
Wait, what? There’s a new 450cc engine from Kawasaki but it’s not in the Ninja sport bike or the Versys-X ADV? That calls for a Daily Rider on the Eliminator, the latest entry-level machine from Team Green.
SPECS:
MSRP: $6,950
Engine: 451 cc parallel twin
Measured weight: 390 lb. / 176.9 kg
Fuel capacity: 3.4 gal. / 12.9 liters
Seat height: 28.9 in. / 734 mm
Claimed power: 52 hp @ 10,000 rpm
Claimed torque: 32 foot-pounds @ 8,000 rpm
See photos and read the article here: rvz.la/46EvDEW
Zack’s gear:
Alpinestars Solano jacket: rvz.la/3LL0S9x
REV’IT! Avion 3 (Fly 3) Gloves: rvz.la/45kwXvQ
Riding Culture Chinos: rvz.la/46zY1bt
REAX Fulton Air Shoes: rvz.la/45issC2
Sedici Strada II Mips Helmet: rvz.la/3Mcnr7p
0:00 Intro
1:05 Our Sponsor, RevZilla
1:40 A quick walkaround the Eliminator
3:53 On The Road!
5:53 Freeway Cruisin’
11:03 Urban Manners & Stop Sign Challenge
15:29 Lover’s Lane
17:42 At the Lights
22:52 Gettin’ Dirty
24:02 Will it Wheelie???
26:30 Instagram Questions!
33:17 On the Daily Rider Leaderboard - ยานยนต์และพาหนะ
Read more about the Eliminator on Common Tread: rvz.la/3Q4AtG4
Check out all of the newest motorcycle gear available: rvz.la/45oqOyC
Did Zack get a spy shot of the next gen MB G-Wagon? Michigan plates and camo wrap usually means prototype testing. Did you credit him with the scoop?
Oo
Zack’s rare road rage moment was hilarious and justified
I'm kind of happy he didn't edit that out. We all have those rare moments where traffic gets the better of us, it just comes down to how we deal with them. Zack was super mild with just "yelling" into his helmet. It was a very human moment.
I counted at least 3 seconds.
@@pathosdivision...rare?
You know what really impressed me with how that whole thing played out? The horn working the way it was intended on a motorcycle; I’ve seen so many people feel the need to rev bomb cars (myself included) because they feel the horn just doesn’t get the same attention. I like this.
@@teaganyoung3394 I kinda feel like a light throttle blip is more gentle than the horn, and the horn less rude than the full rev bomb. Sleeping at the light usually gets a light blip from me, then a longer one if they don't wake up. You were warned...
"Stop looking at your phones and go!"
A man after my own heart.
I’m still riding an eliminator 750cc from the 80s… what a bike!!! never failed!!!
U mean 900cc ??????
No.....a 750! i wish i had a 900...@@fester16100
@@fester16100The Kawasaki ZL750 Eliminator was sold in 1985.
I really appreciate the separation from what Zack’s personal preference for ownership would be vs his rating for the daily rider leader board. It’s also fun to watch him struggle a bit in doing so, lol
I wish he would go back to the 2-axis board though. Some bikes are awful dailies, but incredibly fun, and they should be praised for what they are, not what they aren't. You can't really see that with a single category being ranked.
@@patm9351 I do like the simplicity and clarity of the leaderboard but it does miss a little bit of that extra info. The added symbols to note expensive bikes, fun bikes and ones that are simply beloved is a nice touch though
@@patm9351 The show is called "Daily Rider." It's meant to rank the best daily riders at the top. Being an awful daily rider isn't going to get praise here.
People seem to totally miss the name of this series. "Daily Rider"
Not "Weekly fun rider".
I love the massive amount of options in the mid sized motorcycle market.
I wish the truck market was the same
agree
This is unequivocally a small motorcycle.
@@Hansengineering400+ cc is not small. Small is 125,150 even 250 cc. At least in terms of engine size it's not small.
@@lucascarracedo7421 lol yes the fuck it is. It's a child's motorcycle. "mid sized" doesn't even start until 650.
One of my absolute favorite series in YT
I love how it's more classic UJM than cruiser. I find so many modern cruisers pursue the cruiser ethos so far that they compromise actual ridability.
Put differently this allows one who likes the cruiser aesthetic to get a good ride that doesn't put all your weight on your tailbone or carry hundreds of pounds of extra weight.
Finally the bike I've been waiting to see on here. Planning on to get this as my beginner bike after sitting on it, felt so much better than the Rebel 500 and more natural.
Tried both and far prefer the eliminator over the rebel which is so low to the ground it feels like a kids bike.
Same here!
Me too... I finally found one I that I find cool and isn't too powerful for my noobie ass
Well did you get it?
Your final explanation of where it goes on the board is exactly why I watch Zach. Never give that honesty up!
The 2000 125cc version of this was my MSF bike. It’ll always have a soft spot in my heart.
Not traditionally a cruiser guy, but I have to admit I love how this thing looks. If it had a 270 degree engine or anything with a bit more character Id probably think about one as a commuter
yeah a 270 degree crank would've made this an instant seller, that would've greatly increase the cost tho as that would be a separately new engine.
@@metalsadmancfmoto has a 450 cruiser coming out which is a bit more retro looking using a 270 degree crank
Having a more torquey ninja400 engine isnt really a cruiser engine but tbis is kinda a standard style with a cruizer fungshway anyway. Perhaps its a good commuter
chinese spy spotted@@chrispekel5709
It's a cruiser that revs up to 12k rpm. I'd say that's enough character.
I love daily rider videos, always happy when I see a new one released
Daily Rider: Better than Saturday cartoons.
Took my MSF course on an old Eliminator 125 back in 2009 and really enjoyed it... it's definitely approachable and a sort of all-rounder. The impression it left me with is a quirky bike that doesn't fit into any category (not quite cruiser enough or sporty enough) but that makes it ideal to learn on because the transition to any other bike is pretty straightforward
I love these reviews, even when you’re reviewing bikes, like cruisers, that I will never in my life have any use for. The presentation is just fun, kind of like listening to a buddy tell stories about the bike he test-rode. Thanks again.
Just want to give a shout out of appreciation for Zack. I just got back into riding and I absolutely love this series. Pay this man and keep him around a long time!
Unbiased and reliable opinion. This is why i follow this particular series. Thank you Zack.
Having grown up and lived decades in the South Bay it’s nice seeing Zack ride down all the same streets and freeways I grew up with and have been down so often it’s burned into my memories forever. As far as the bike being older I’d look at this as an about town bike and for commuting and zipping in and out of traffic on city streets and due to all the vibrations and transmission issues with it, I personally would grab the Royal Enfield Hunter 350 for 3,900 or maybe a Scram and save the extra 3k saved to spend on getting a better version of a full sized tourer of whatever floats your boat, sport, adventure, cruiser, whatever.
I love this series! thanks for the videos
Love this review! I've been waiting for this to come out. In retrospect, it makes me wish I had waited to buy my Honda Rebel because I think this bike would have been perfect for me. On a side note, I appreciate someone seeing the good qualities in a motorcycle, even if it's not the style of bike they would have chosen. That's pretty awesome. 🙂
Mini power cruiser... that is a perfect Description. I think Kawasaki knocked this one out of the park. Super excited to get some more seat time on one. And that's coming from a die hard Supersport Rider. Having ridden all three the Honda Rebel 300 and 500 have nothing on this bike IMO. Great job Kawasaki. Thank you for such a thorough review as always Zach.
This leaderboard section is epic, dude's on top of his game. What a pleasure to watch - thanks !
My buddy just picked up his 1st motorcycle with the new Eliminator. I had to ride it home for him as he didn't have a moto license yet, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy & docile it is to ride. Definitely a great beginner bike imo. I have the 2023 Vulcan S 650 myself 😊
might be a stupid question but i'm doing my driving lessons right now and multiple people have asked me if i have a bike yet, but i find it really hard to buy a bike without even knowing how the bike feels to ride (since i can't do test rides without a license) . Did you do the testing for him or did he just straight up buy it based on reviews/opinion etc?
@@axoliminator we were able to go to a local dealer & sit on a bunch of different bikes to see what felt most comfortable. Didn't do a formal test ride but he kept coming back to the Eliminator & decided to buy it. Once he got his learners permit we would ride around his neighborhood until he got comfortable with the bike before we rode on any main roads or highways.
@@axoliminator Go sit on a lot of them. Thats all you need to do as a beginner. It will take a couple of years of riding before you begin to notice what I call nuance(the smaller stuff). Comfort as a beginner will give you confidence and the lack of it will give you fear. Check out the Eliminator, the Vulcan S 650, The Yamaha MT03, The Ninja 400 and Z 650 and Ninja 650
@@axoliminator I'd say his friend is probably not making the wisest financial decision by buying a new bike, but his purchasing methodology is fine. You're probably not going to want to keep your first bike for very long anyway. I had my first (a Ninja 500) for less than 2 months - nothing wrong with that bike (other than having carbeurators), but I got a little cheap experience before buying something more fun.
My buddy has the same bike as you, I've put about 2k miles on it along with my rebel 300 at about 7k. What's the acceleration like compared to the Vulcan s?
I just bought my first motorcycle, KLR 650. Thanks Zack and Revzilla for all the information and inspiration!
Nice choice! Mine is going to be a used V-Strom 650 though I like the KLRs as well
love your giggle... thank you for this review, just looked at one yesterday
When I was 16 my dad got me a 2009 125cc kawasaki elimator to ride while I was trying to fix my 90s virago 535. The elimator was so slow and uncomfortable, but I'll always love it because it legally got me out on 2 wheels
Been looking forward to an actual review of this, I’ve loved the past few years of small bikes.
Was waiting for this daily ride, Kawasaki take of the middle to small cruiser, thanks again for an entertaining review on your way to work!
Wonderful as usual! I ride a 2009 Vulcan 500LTD and believe this concept of a sport bike engine in a cruiser frame will be competitive in the light cruiser market. My Vulcan is fun, reliable, and economical to operate and at age seventy five you have shown me that I have a new bike option available! Thanks for all the reviews you do. Really makes the rainy days of winter in the Pacific Northwet a bit more bearable. Merry Christmas and a safe New Year!
That engine, in a Versys-X chassis, with a weight under 375lbs, a decent suspension, and a highway friendly 6th gear.
HELL.yes...!
Be a wonderful bike!
Kawasaki...
I've sat on the Eliminator and Vulcan S, and they are both very comfortable. Of I was going to get my first bike instead of looking for my second, I would seriously consider this bike. I don't like cruisers or this engine, but I like this bike.
I wish they continued the 900 variant of this and somehow squeezed in the z900rs engine. I like the way this one looks a lot better
Agreed. Like yamaha has the mt07, mt09, mt10. I feel Kawasaki could do a similar thing with this... eliminator 400, 650, 900
100% agree. I thought that back when I had a Vulcan S. I’d like a more powerful metric cruiser, that still keeps the fun of the current Vulcan S.
Mt are naked sports bikes tho. Kawa has the z650 and the z900. The RSs especially the 900 are just naked sportsbikes are clad as a neoclassic but really sportsbikes in character.
I think its much more likely theyll make another z450 RS, a sporty neoclassic
@timonschneider6290 you can argue it can compete with the honda rebel which is selling very well.
Kawasaki already has the engines ready as well. It's current 450, the vulcans 650, the 900rs' 900.
I'd bet if they did it would sell
@@B-Rok88 yeah maybe. why not? i think it would depend a lot on whether they can integrate it into their production as well too. since there is a little bit of doubling in their own line up.
That exhaust needs to be eliminated!
Lol... Good one 😂
Oh, that is the exhaust? I thought it was a heated bread box. :D
Kawasaki rlly dropped the ball not throwing a 270 degree crank in that ninja engine. Its a huge trend rn and wud have gave that cruiser that v twin sound and feel. Itd have been perfect
Kawasaki aren't trend-chasers though.
Lol, yeah just throw it together on a weekend. 😅
What a great minute examination of this bike, you covered all the points that are relevant to this potential buyer who can't get a rest ride himself. All the best and thankyou very much for your great work. Subscribed.
I work at a dealership and as soon as we got one in I was IN LOVE. I’ve always been a standard/naked bike rider and this is the first cruiser like bike to catch my eye. I’m definitely getting one.
Hello, I am also interested in one, but when I went to the Dealer not only did I have a dealer fee, but also a dealer fee for assembling the motorcycle because according to them it comes in a box, this is correct.
I would greatly appreciate if you could clarify my doubt.
I understood the 180° p-twin in the ninja 400 as it feels a little more free revving, but now that they’re using p-twins in nakeds, cruisers, sport tourers and so on I can’t help but feel they’d be so much more satisfying with 270° cranks. The Pretend-V-Twins as I call them just feel so much more satisfying in those styles.
Honestly we need that 270° engine from Kawasaki, they are the only ones that stil push the 180° like it's a gold standard (which is not...).
@@sercio994Yup. Was choosing between a Versys 650 and a Tracer 700 and the Tracer won 100% due to the engine feel, both torque & vibes:
100% agree, 270 would made these bikes more desirable.
I suppose they wanted to reuse as many parts as possible from the 400 for cost, which is a shame as a 270 twin would really add to the psuedo-cruser vibe.
Reminds me of my little old shadow 500. Rowdy little 50hp motor that’s not super fast but always down to have fun. With a super easy approachable riding position it’s the kind of bike that’s great to keep in the stable for when you want to put someone on a bike or just feel like riding something to its absolute limit without hitting the track
Thank you for posting .. was wanting to hear a tall rider's comments on the ergos.
Just bought this bike today its a really nice smooth bike :)
It's funny how I'm thoroughly entertained by your reviews, even if the bike doesn't interest me.
Having owned my Z400 for 2 years, I can easily agree with the transmission issues you’re experiencing and it’s a shame the glitches haven’t been sorted for the new model. Norton makes a fix kit for the 400 series, but how much money and effort are most people going to spend on taking apart their transmission on what’s likely their first motorcycle? It’s a point of frustration I would say is a major weakness worthy of a full letter grade off an otherwise great package.
I have a 2021 Z400 and haven't had a single transmission issue or strange shifting behavior. Unfortunate to hear you're experiencing that.
Odd, had mine for 3 years before just recently selling...no issues. It isnot the smoothest but completely compitent. Now the first year clutch wear and slipping issue...that was real but it was corrected.
Great review especially when he had zero expectations of this bike. I have owned many bikes and as I have gotten older I wanted something small, light and more cruiser than sport bike. Recently owned a 22 Nightster which was a fun bike but plagued with electrical issues. Had an R3 prior and and MT03 after the Harley. My brother picked up a z400 and after driving it I enjoyed the power delivery over the 321cc. Sold the MT03 and recently picked up the Eliminator and for what it is a great bike. The aftermarket for the Ninja 400 is outstanding and hope that this bike will also garner the attention of those companies.
Good review Zack...looks to be a good little commuter bike, with an occasional weekend tour.
I'm really happy you reviewed this motorcycle. I'd also like you to review the Vulcan S but this is probably close enough.
Bought one of these about four weeks ago and having a blast. Wish there were more accessories out there
Seems like a Japanese Harley Street Rod. Awesome beginner bike and VERY approachable for female riders as well. Seems like a good way to round out the beginner options.
Totally agree. It's a ladder for bikes you would ride everyday. Not just some weekend roads.
Some good quality television right here.
As a lover and an owner of old Beetles, I always get excited when I see the little yellow Beetle friend when you ride neighborhood ! I think it’s in a lot of Daily Rider videos 😂
I wish to have all these bikes and open roads
+ music, a backpack with water and some food, heaven!
The Eliminator really makes me think of my 80s Honda Nighthawk CB450. Not a cruiser, not a standard. Kawasakis modern mill has 10 more hp and 10more mpg than my 86 Nighthawk but everything Zack described about the Eliminators healing demeanor is how my Nighthawk is. Biggest difference is I only paid $300 for the Nighthawk 😊
Good to see a major motorcycle company tapping into the style and function
that a skilled DIYer would love to be able to fabricate in his weekend home garage.
Thanks Zac
Finally! I have been waiting for this
Got mine today!
I totally called it on 'TV Dinners' ! Great song that doesn't try too hard, a lot like that bike.
I've been waiting to see the review on this one
I once owned a LTD440, that was a fun little bike from Kawasaki. Think it was sold as a Vulcan 500 or something like that in the US of A. At 6`1 tall it was just about enough big in size for me, bought it as a relapse bike cheap from a colleague after I quit motorcycling. So I did not quit, after all. Had a blast with it for a couple of seasons after which I upgraded to my current ride, also a Kawasaki. A Vulcan 750 from -95, still after 12 seasons on it in good condition. But I am getting older so a light bike like this would propably be enough, need to test one and see what I think. Thanks for this review, good work as always!
Nope, 440 LTD was also sold in the US. It was followed in 1985 by the 454 LTD which had a completely different motor, essentially half a Ninja 900 engine. The Vulcan 500 came later, about 1990, IIRC. It shared the engine from the Ninja 500.
Dude, I’m surprised (pleasantly) that you can give such a fair review to a bike that isn’t your preferred style. I’m not sure I could be so detached and balanced! I guess balance is good for all riders, right! 😎 the vulcan 900 is my dream bike but intimidating in some ways. I’m going to return to riding after a looong hiatus. I think a 450 is a better place to start than a 900. Thanks for taking the time.
It's not hard to be unbiased , you just need enough brain power for that
@@nemanjap8768 I’d say more of a credit to judgement than straight up intellect. It’s not common practice in any case.
Stop looking at your phones and go! Love that Zack even has his limits
Thank you for your sharing 😁. I wonder how is the body position compares to Honda CMX500? (I'm 6feet2 same as you)
I too have been riding an Eliminator 400 since last year.
I am happy with the ride and vibration characteristics, which are roughly as you have pointed out.
I think the flat design of the tank contributes a lot to the beauty of the design of this bike
The tank capacity is disappointing. Another weakness is that the fuel gauge is unreliable... I notice this weakness especially when riding long distances.
The high seat is an option and I highly recommend it, it changes the riding position and comfort a lot and makes it more like a naked bike (although the design is a bit worse)...
Thanks for the review! I enjoyed it very much! I don't think I'll ever be able to copy the wheelie, though...
First video of yours that I've seen...you and I have the same reaction to people on their phones in traffic lol I enjoyed that
Has nobody noticed the Mercedes Benz G wagon electric prototype at the 5:20 mark?
It had a side exhaust, NASCAR style. If you ain't first, you're last.
Ohhhhh I thought it was a disgusting wrap or something haha
I think my wife would love one of these to replace her old Suzuki VS800 s50. Sounds like it makes the same power but is modern and a little lighter! Also she loves mid-pegs.
I have the Vulcan S 650 and really like it - its easy to ride and has the power to keep up with pretty much any other bike that has not been moded or is not a race bike. The Eliminator appears to be very good and it can compete with other bikes in its class - like the Ducati Scrambler Sixty2 which is another fine bike. I feel the Eliminator would be a great first bike for someone wanting to ride as it can be all the bike you want. Its fun to ride smaller bikes cuz you can really crank the throttle and not get into too much trouble!
Or a second bike for grocery runs .
I still dream of a Versys 450X or a KLR 450 with this engine...😢 😴🙏!!!
Nice to know that the "rev giggles" is a international thing for all motorcyclists I kinda use it as an indicator that the bikes are pretty good for the rider. btw rev giggles happen when you takeoff on a motorcycle quickly and laugh a little
Fan from Australia
How do the engine vibrations compare between the Kawasaki 400/450, 650, and the Honda 500? They are all 180 degree cranks. None sound good to me, but I'm still curious about the vibration.
Another in a long unbroken line of great videos from Courts.
What I WANT to get at 40 years old as my first bike is a Harley FXR. But the more you talk about this bike the more I realize that it could be the perfect fit for me. It seems funny to me but it's "approachability" makes it really "tempting."
Kawasaki transmissions (large sport displacement engines) are Excellent. (Appreciating the fact Zack is talking about small displacements)
I’ve owned a Suzuki, Yamaha, Harley, Triumph and currently a Kawasaki. The Kawasaki transmission is arguably as good or the best out of the bunch.
PS: if you what to start out in 2nd gear, don’t shift down to 1st gear at the stop light.
Zach its not that the mirrors are to small.....its that your biceps are so big... hope that makes your day m8.
My 1st bike was an Eliminator 250. Great memories and a nostalgic nameplate for a 50 year old man. I would certainly consider adding it to the garage, but the price point is so competitive and the Z400 is just too much fun. So, yeah.....
This is the one that surprised me with it's looks when I visited a bike expo recently.
I went to see all kinds of other bikes but when I saw the Eliminator I had to try out the seat, bike looked reeeeeal nice and I was drawn to it.
I'm currently riding an XSR 125 and I love the retro style but also sport bike look and was looking to move up to a CBR500R but the Eliminator has made my choice difficult now.
Just wait ..it will happen thousands of times thru out your life now 😂, never stop riding fren !
Nice bit of debris in between the lanes on the other side of the semi at 7:08. Glad you weren't splitting right there.
As a big ZZ Top fan I love that question about their album! I had a feeling the choice would be TV Dinners. The first song I thought of was I Got The Six. The song is playful, mischievous and a bit naughty (the refrain says “I got the six now give me your nine”) 🤣
the whole album is oar sum 👍
I ride a cruiser with forward controls. There ate passenger pegs. I usually ride solo. When I see a bump or whatnot, I drop the back pegs and squat on them. Not always convenient but does the trick. Spinals suck.
Good video, I always like watching the presentations of all types of motorcycles. I would really like to see a presentaion Yamaha Super Tenere 1200 (XT1200) on Daily Rider. I can find all kinds of video on the "T12" Adventure Touring but what its like as a possible daily commuter runabout.
Been waiting for this review! In the Philippines, the Eliminator is cheaper by almost 1000USD compared to the Rebel 500
I was wanting a Ninja 650, but really like the build/design and power in this bike
eliminator is a really good zz top album! 👍😀
I would love to see the BMW R1250RS given the daily rider treatment. I own one, and can’t think of a better bike to, go quick, be comfortable, and ride with a smile on my face. Of course, it’s not for off road. I know you had the RT on the show before, but they truly are different beasts. Thanks in advance, and I’m looking forward to the next CTXP adventure!
A good transmission on a motorcycle is crucial IMO. People can say what they want about Harley Davidson but I personally think they (HD) have great transmissions and that’s one of the main reasons I own Harleys.
Yup South Gate Long Beach it can be tedious, but thank you and no information it came in very handy
Zack, this was a great watch. I'd love to see your take on a Versys X300 during a daily ride!
To me the versys X just has the wrong engine for the bike. It should have been more road oriented than it is. A larger torquier engine would suit it much better
@chrispekel5709 I can't say I agree with you. I've had one for a couple of years now, and it really lives up to its name. It's versatile. Does well on road, does well on mild off-road. With a few small changes it can be set up to do one or the other better, and parts are plentiful and relatively cheap. Would it be better with the 400 cc engine? Yes, it would but then it might cannibalize too many sales from the KLR650 and/or the Versys 650.
You're in luck! th-cam.com/video/tSkbqdvWZhE/w-d-xo.html
Cool video. Thanks. Are you going to test the new Honda CL500 also in the near future?
Just picked one of these up myself. Still getting used to it compared to my previous bike. What's the sweet spot you found for rpms when riding?
my dream bike
Just boight this bike, absolutely Love it!
It looks like the old Honda V65 Magna. I had one and I used to call it a high performance cruiser half chopper style because of the seating position and the longer forks.
I loved that bike even though I almost died on it from a Jean on crash.
Honda should definitely bring that V65 Manga back into production with all the bells and whistles. Imagine how awesome that bike would be with todays technology WOW
I'm a new rider and really like the z400s ergonomics. I haven't ridden it but it feels great. A 400cc is small for me though, I'm 6'2 217lbs and will be doing some highway riding. Since kawasaki is the most comfortable brand I've sat on I'm considering this or the Vulcan 650. Any thoughts?
My 250 Ninja is fine on the highway, loves 75-85mph. The 400 Ninja would be better, I would think.
The main difference among the three: Ninja - fairings block the wind and standard seating but limited luggage, Eliminator - standard seating and better luggage options, Vulcan S - feet forward and better luggage options and passenger capabilities.
Feet forward doesn't really allow you to weight your footpegs or lean off the bike around corners for stability.
You gotta figure out what works best for you of the differences.
However, Eliminator should be more than fine on the highway.
Man. A little more than a year ago I bought my first bike, a Z400. I'm really upset that Kawi didn't release this bike a year earlier, because I would probably have gone with the Eliminator. This video just makes me more upset, lol. Don't get me wrong I love the z400, but I would have just liked a more cruiser-y style bike. Swapping for the Eliminator NOW would feel more like losing, since it's more of a side-grade than an upgrade.
I sat on one when I took the z400 in for service a few weeks ago and found it quite comfortable. More so than the Z400 (primarily due to a knee injury that results in pain after only 30-45 minutes on the saddle for me). Man... I REALLY wish that this bike had been available last year.
I've always been split on positive neutral finder. It's certainly better than those extra shitty boxes where you shift back and forth between first and second six times trying to get neutral. Rode an old Aprilia Futura that was crazy bad. But my current Honda's box is so easy to use it would only be worse with PNF. Being able to go from second to neutral while moving is nice. (The other part of PNF is if you come to a stop in second and stomp down you go into neutral even if you aren't delicate, I think this is the part of the feature the screws up second to neutral when moving.)
I just sold my old 2011 ZX-6R and bought a new KTM Duke.. holy shit trying to find neutral for 5-10 times every single time and the clunkiness and hard shifts from the absolute garbage KTM transmission! I thought that was the worst possible farm implement trans, just before I tried a friend's Husqvarna Svartpilen, which was even worse than my Duke!! (even if it's basically the same KTM powertrain, they somehow managed to make it worse)
Kawi PNF FTW! The Honda (I had before the ZX6) tranny was fine, but I still think it would've been better if it had PNF.
No chance of making a bad decision with Japanese motorcycles. I love my Scout Bobbber, but the Kawasaki is really great too. I wish you all a lot of fun on the road!
The original Eliminator was patterned after Kawasaki drag bikes and hence it still does not quite fit the cruiser mode. I have a '91 250 with bikini fairing and belly pan. With 33 horsepower at 12,500 rpm, low seat height, mid pegs and 315 pounds it is a blast to ride! Seems like Kawasaki is still carrying on with the similar kind of *attitude" that you describe. Good to hear.
Yeah, they're kind of small displacement sports bike cruisers
This reminds me of my 97 Honda Magna 750. Sport bike cruiser frame all fun
I'm not an expert (I'm looking at this as an option for my first bike), but the Japanese version of the Eliminator has a 399cc engine. I believe that's due to way motorcycle licensing works in Japan... 124cc is a small, 399cc is a standard or mid-sized bike. 400cc or greater is classed as a large motorcycle. I don't understand all the restrictions, but the larger bikes have fewer restrictions: Top speed, expressway access, but you need to be older to get it. Presumably it also costs more to obtain. Similarly, Australia has LAMS... the Learner Approved bikes... and the Honda Rebel 500 is LAMS compliant, but the Vulcan S has a restrictor added to bring it down to the permitted power/weight ratio. This means you are spending a lot of money for a hobbled bike, and to (officially) de-hobble it you need an engineering certificate, and once it's been de-hobbled, it can't be re-hobbled and be LAMS compliant. By pushing the Eliminator to 451cc outside of Japan, they get a bike that more effectively competes with the 471cc Honda Rebel in that "first bike that isn't a 250cc toy and that somebody would actually want to own for a few years" segment.