Certified Kawasaki tech of 14 years here. Your assessment of the break-in is as accurate as I've seen from a RUclips reviewer. People definitely have a misconception. It's not the static tension from the rings that mate them to the cylinder walls. It's cylinder pressure under a load forcing them to the walls that does it. RPM is your friend during break-in. The only thing I want to say is try not to rev a new motor in neutral like you did at the beginning of the video (or ever, really). It wants to be under a load the entire time when revved. Another misconception is the time it takes to break in. Warm up the engine, then get out on a non-congested highway, and run that bl+ch through every gear just a few hundred rpm short of redline, then decelerate through the gears under a load as well. Then, do it again. Your break in is complete. I've had hundreds of 'new' engines apart. Don't let anyone tell you different. It has to be loaded up and revved to seat the rings and valves. Your video makes me wish I hadn't watched RevZilla's. Very well done. Much better rider than he is. Stay alert out there.
Thanks a ton for sharing! There are a lot of other commenters who insist I am harming these machines, but I think they are mostly just the type to echo whatever they've been told by anyone in their life who rides a motorcycle. This creator (ruclips.net/video/MlmHOMm9gow/видео.html) does a great job of delivering a real explanation that is easy to understand in under 5 minutes, basically just restating everything you mentioned. By no means are we suggesting to ride a brand new bike like you stole it, but you shouldn't be scared to use the machine as it's intended to be used. As for doing the short segment where I rev the bike, I always ensure it reaches operating temperature before that, but I also recognize what you are saying when it comes to having a load on the engine - That said, I will continue to provide exhaust clips to the audience as I do feel it won't compromise the internals by just doing a short 15 second exhaust clip. I'm glad you felt I spoke accurately on the subject. Ride safe. 😎
@@Omni_Moto yep, same basic message. I could be a ton more detailed including mentioning a heat cycle or two before my recommendation but the fact is that 99% of engines in any machine have already been heat cycles at the factory. Regarding his oil talk, very much agree that breakin oil is a bad idea. Personally for my consumer engines and for my race engines I use Rotella "diesel" oil 10/40 or 15/40 depending on the engine. Never, ever use synthetics for breakin. Rotella has the highest amount of Zinc in any conventional oil, no friction modifiers which will ruin a motorcycle clutch, and if you turn the bottle around and read you will see that they perform their OWN tests and the oil exceeds JASO MA2 standards. Another benefit to using it is that you can continue to use it, and that it is the only conventional oil available at big box retailers that is JASO MA2 compliant, which means you can get it pretty much anywhere when you need a quart. For the exhaust clips, how about we compromise and you consider doing those clips AFTER the ride segment when the engine has been under pressure and the rings have essentially already been seated. I realize it sounds really picky but that's just the way engine builders are, lol. Have a good one and Let The Good Times Roll.
if i purchased a kawasaki eliminator today, how do i break in properly? do i ride 500 miles first and then change the oil by using the oil ur mentioned or do i do the oil change first then ride 500 miles? sorry, i am pretty new to this ..thank u in advance
@@eddyyong66 Hey there! No worries, we were all new at one point. You ride your motorcycle for 500 miles and then you will change the oil with the Kawasaki recommended oil and filter. Your local Kawasaki dealership should be able to sell you all of the necessary equipment. Thanks for watching! Hope this helps. Ride safe. 😎
Excellent! I've been riding big bikes for 34 years. I had a serious motorcycle accident eight years ago. Now I'm looking for small and medium-displacement bikes. Your vdo is very informative about this type of bike. I'm interested in this Kawasaki because I've come to think as you say here: It's more fun to ride slow bikes fast than to ride fast bikes slow. Thanks a lot!
I bought this bike a few days ago out about 60ish miles on it so far. And its a good bike im 6.1 and it feels solid to me handles well has power when its needed zero complaints
I bought this as my first bike! 5’3 154 lbs and I was flat foot and so comfortable on this bike. Slipper clutch, ABS, low seat height, comfortable seat, and a great cruiser! Great for my daily driver highway/freeway/town. Definitely recommend! I wanted the Honda Rebel but was no where is stock next to me; so glad I went with this (the seat is so much better on the eliminator vs rebel)
Thanks, man. You just sold this bike. My wife is 65, ready to retire and wants her first bike. Tired of being my pillion for 40 years. The RE 350s are too week. 650s a bit to much. This bike can do 65 without screaming. Perfect! Great review. Got a Kaw dealer 1 mile away too. Convenient.
This now February 2024 and I’ve just been reviewing the Eliminator at the MCN London show. Superb seating position and perfect for an easy cruise. Would probably change the muffler for something a little nicer but apart from that a perfect daily ride and in my opinion a much nicer seat height than the (far to low) Honda Rebel.
My feelings towards this motorcycle have improved since the first time throwing a leg over one. I'd cash in on one of these over a Rebel 500 all day! Thanks for watching. Ride safe. 😎
One of the best reviews i have seen, lot of information, great roads, great interaction keeping thw whole conversation interesting. Great job my friend!! I really like the idea of using the parking lot to understand ur bike. I am a beginner and plan to have my first bike hopefully soon. Like the Elliminator and heard about Rebel too but not sure if i like the look of the Rebel.
Thank ya kindly! The Eliminator is the better of the two machines in my opinion between it and the Rebel 500. Just my $0.02 but the best thing you can do is go to a dealership that sells both and compare them in person. Thanks for watching and ride safe. 😎
Loved your review! Very funny, entertaining, and light-hearted, but was still able to get in a good review of the bike. My first (and only) bike was a 2004 Eliminator 125 with the thumper engine. It was a great bike to learn on and I loved riding it, but I definitely outgrew it and learned to ride it to its limits which still made it decently fun to ride. I sold it about 7 years ago and haven’t ridden anything since then. I’d love to get back into riding and I’m thinking this Eliminator 450 might be a nice way to do it! Keep up the great work!
This would be an excellent machine to get back into riding with, especially with your prior experience on a 125. It's a perfect option that can give you confidence to get going again, while also providing enough power to give you a lasting relationship for thrills on 2-wheels. Glad you enjoyed the content. Welcome to the show! 😄
there are no engines more boring then the Honda 500. The Honda rebel 500 is a dog when you twist the throttle and has spongey suspension. I bought the 400cc version of the bike being reviewed, here in Thailand we got the 400 instead of the 450. The 400cc version is faster and more punchy then the 500cc Honda rebel. So, sure the 450cc with it's longer stroke will be even more torquey. Bottom line, this bike is a muscle cruiser then is a blast to ride in the twisties and I love mine, but it is sprung more like a sport bike then a cruiser, so be ready for a sore backside if the roads are rough.
@@kentcooper8771 trust me you would felt the same if you gone with rebel. and how is the back suspension.i heard at both bikes kawa and honda are just awfull
I went in to buy a Rebel 500, after sitting on the rebel I was heart Broken! The man escorted me over to the Eliminator amd I fell in Love! So I bought it! It's a great bike! Amazing bike
A friend once told me that it does not matter if you are a beginner or a pro whos been riding motorcycles all your life is always a good thing to have a first date with any new motorcycle on a parking lot to get to know her well before you take it out on the open road...
The new Eliminator is very similar in set up as the old 80's Japanese standard bikes, the concept is the same. The dual rear shocks, mid sized engine and seat/peg positions would make for a fun and simple bike that anyone can enjoy, they should have good success with it.
I saw your video few months ago and I rewatch it today, I was looking forward to when this bike will come out in Europe, turn out that it's today ! Can't wait to go get mine. Thanks for the review ! Ride safe ✌
The future subscribers are out there.. The algorithm just hasn’t quite had a tipping point yet to let other discover the channel. All good though, we add more every day! Comments like yours mean the most. Thanks for watching. 👊😎
@@jamesballard6564 This your first bike too? I guess the speed 400 is great but some users have had mechanical issues with it. I'm not sure if that is 100 percent true. Trying to do some research. I think I'll go Eliimnator. There are so many beginner friendly features like the positive neutral finder that I hear is helpful. Got to learn to rid first and go to a msf course.
I rode both. I enjoyed the Speed 400 just because it was really zippy and fun. But it was so tiny, I didn't feel like there was really even anything under me. Settled on the '24 Eliminator SE and couldn't be happier. Great bike! Qualifier: not a vet. New rider, and it's my first bike, so I don't know what I don't know. But I tested this up against the Triumph, Rebel 500, and the RE Super Meteor. Except for the much cooler sound of the RE, the Eliminator was definitely the right choice.
I like the look and the idea as someone who is shopping for their 1st bike. My main worry is I'm 6' 250lbs. I think the Vulcan 650 might be better for my size. I could be WAY wrong.
I'm going to say you aren't WAY wrong, but you also aren't WAY right. Both the Eliminator and the Vulcan 650 are rated as new-rider-friendly on their website. The Vulcan would be better suited for your height/weight in my opinion. Get into a dealership showroom and get into the saddle to figure out what works for you! Best of luck!
I just picked up a Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition as my first bike. More than double the horsepower and Torque figures of this bike as well as +120lbs of weight and a 34" seat height. I'm 6 feet 290lbs, so not too far off from you. My inseam is only 30", which means I have quite short legs for someone my height. People often say get a 300/400/500 class bike as your first bike. I'm glad I didn't listen. 105hp isn't too much to handle, but the power is there when I'm able to use it. Respect the bike and your own abilities and you'll be fine. Personally I would feel oversized on a bike with a 29" seat height. It really depends on the type of riding you expect to do and if you want some power to get moving when you need to. Many bikes not far from the cost of the bikes you are considering are more substantial with 70-80HP. Good luck on your search for the perfect 1st bike. I'm enjoying mine quite a bit.
Same HP and Torque as the Rebel 500, but with dealers price gouging right now...people are literally paying 8400-10grand for Ninja 400s this will be anywhere between 8-9k. Ill wait till next year and hopefully dealers will come to their senses when they are stiting on last years models.
Definitely a local thing. Lots of dealers around here sell for at MSRP or a few hundred dollars more with fees. Used bikes are the mess. You can buy a ravaged Ninja for less or even more than what you can get used often.
i’d buy one as a scrambler. give me more suspension travel, bigger wheels (maybe spokes), mx bars, and more seat to peg distance. that would be a great commuter.
That sounds like a fun ride! Now that you mention it, Kawasaki doesn't really have a scrambler motorcycle right now, and I think a scrambler variant would be welcomed by the market. Honda, after all, did release their SCL 500 that uses the Rebel 500 powerplant... Kawasaki could just fire back with their own using the competitive 450 engine, but they might hold off until they see how the SCL 500 sells. Good thoughts. Ride safe! 😎
Very cool, congrats! I’ve been looking at the z400 for a year and started wondering if I should get a vulcan 650, but this might be just right. I’m 5’6” 160 lbs 53 years old, used to have a 250 ninja years back. Any advice? Does the es have abs or only the abs model?
@@trailguy The Eliminator only gets ABS if the specific model you are looking at denotes it. ABS is not a standard feature. It sounds like you'll fit on one great though! Get in a showroom and find out. 😎
I think I am going to make some time for a video about the CL-C 450. I really like the look of it, and I think it is going to be a disruptor to the entry-level cruiser market. It will give the Eliminator and the Rebel 500 some competition for sure. I don't see any reason for CF to hold back on that bike along with the 450NK. The engine already meets emission requirements with the SS, but as a global OEM, it won't show up in US markets overnight. We'll just have to be patient and wait and see! 😄
@Omni_Moto I agree. Have hard time seeing them ignoring the biggest consumer of cruisers. The biggest advantage to me for the cl-c is the fact if belt drive
Super different machines with super different prices. The Nightster has much more performance and technology to offer to enhance your riding experience - because of that, it comes at a premium cost. You can expect to pay as much as $16K (USD) for a new one depending on trim level and where you buy, whereas a new Eliminator should always be available for less than $8.5K (USD), even after potential dealer fees. If money is of no issue to you, I'd say splurge for the Nightster. It's a very fun machine to ride, and you'll get at least a year of use out of its power offering. The Eliminator is wicked cost-effective in comparison, but it can be underwhelming because of its small displacement - if you're not focused on speed, features, or tech, it's a very easy choice to scoop up the Eliminator. Thanks for watching! Ride safe.
Thanks for your feedback! My first few bikes were Triumph, and I hated them, TBH. I didn't match the riding style like I thought. So I'm hoping to get it right this time! @@Omni_Moto
Hey Omni Man! Great to see you enjoying the sun & mini adventure! Great company behind you there! Good job looking after your sponsors👌 That’s a great little cruiser! Don’t think we get them here in Aus. Actually, never seen one before. Is this a new model or a refresh of an existing?🤔 Gees you’re a funny dude! You’d be a hoot to go out for beers & a bite to eat🤙 Take care buddy keep plugged on & thanks for your energy & content⭐️
Hey Steve, thanks for tuning in! The Eliminator is a completely new motorcycle for the 2024 model year here in the USA, but had a grandfather eliminator dating as far back as the 1980's. It really is the original "power cruiser", utilizing HP (kilowatt) focused engines. The OG eliminator was available in about 9 different configurations/engine sizes in varying countries, with the most popular models appearing to be the 900 and 1000cc variants. Here's the wiki on it if you want to read up on it! en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kawasaki_Eliminator Ride safe bromigo. 😎
Think they missed the mark on the pricing it needed to be somewhere close to its 400 cousins. Right now it’s bumping right up against the 650s and z650.
Nice yoda impression :D I'm looking for a new first motorcycle. Which one would you recommend between and a Honda Rebel 500? I think they both look great, at least :)
Thanks for watching! If you desire performance out of your motorcycle, the eliminator handles better and the engine has more gusto. The Rebel is a great ride as well though with a proven track record. I'd say the best way to decide is to seek them out at a dealership and sit on both! Personally, I like the eliminator more. All the best! Ride safe. 😎
@@Omni_Moto I mean, I don't really need performance being an absolute beginner. Performance would just make me do stupid shit. But thanks, I'll try to hop on both. Kinda felt you're leaning towards the Eliminator :D
It's a cruiser with some great design choices to make it appeal to a wide variety of riders who want a unique aesthetic. Thanks for watching and ride safe! 😎
It's the check engine light. Since it's brand new it has not gone through the service center like it would before a customer takes delivery. The service technician who does the pre-delivery inspection will also clear that out and it will go away upon warranty registration. Thanks for watching!
Tough to say where this bike fits in, but with the success, Honda has seen out of their 300/500cc platform for the Rebel, I think the Eliminator fills a gap in the Kawasaki cruiser line-up and bridges the space between the two rebels very well. From a marketing perspective, the 450 Eliminator could be the solution for many having trouble trying to decide between the 300 and 500 Rebels. Time will tell. Thanks for watching! 😄
Thank you for your review. Based on this, would you recommend this over the Vulcan 650? I want to pull the plug on one of these, but confused about it. THey are not super apart in terms of pricing. Would a difference of 200cc make a big difference in terms of power?
Hey, great question! The Vulcan 650 is rated as "new-rider friendly" on Kawasaki's website. In my personal opinion, if you are confident enough to start on the Eliminator, you shouldn't rule out the Vulcan 650. The extra 200CC can make a big difference in both top end and acceleration, so it's wise to respect the Vulcan's throttle at first before you go digging into it, whereas the Eliminator is a bit more forgiving if you give it the beans. Another variable to consider is how long you think the power of the Eliminator will keep you happy vs. the Vulcan. Upgrading sooner means you're getting less utility out of your purchase, which means you are losing more $$$. It's a tough call for me to make without knowing your experience on two wheels. The most basic answer I can give is if you trust yourself to have throttle control and discipline on the brakes, you're going to be okay on the Vulcan 650. If you are waffling at all on that, it's better to play it safe and go for the Eliminator.
I think it makes more sense than the Vulcan 650. First I love the Vulcan 650 and the idea of it, but it’s really niche. It’s more for an experienced rider who wants something easy playful chuckable and cheap. Like my old shadow 500. But I think a part of the appeal of having a bike like that in your stable is you can put the new rider in your group on it, and I think the 650 is a little intimidating for someone who’s never even ridden a scooter. I think the eliminator will fit the bill better. Then a person can move into the versys Vulcan or ninja 650
I put 14,000 miles on my Vulcan 650 as my first bike. Taught 7 people how to ride on it in 2 years, and then gave it away to one of those 7. I daily my wife’s Ninja 400 now, and like how this 450 looks.
I had a Vulcan 900 Classic as my first motorcycle. I sold it and I’m looking at the Vulcan S, Ninja 400, and this eliminator. I’m not sure what to get. I think I might need a test ride.
Wow, I wonder why it costs so much more than the z400 and Ninja 400. I would think the Vulcan S is a better purchase for your dollar if you're looking for a sporty cruiser.
Hey there, thanks for watching! I think the biggest reason Kawasaki has this bike priced the way they do is because it's where the competition (Honda Rebel 500) is priced. Pricing is a strange marketing dynamic in the world of motorcycles. It doesn't always hinge on what pricing is for other models the OEM produces, but rather what the other players in the industry price their competitive models at. If you price it lower than the competition you'll get a mix of people who want the savings and the other end will be individuals who see an inferior product because it's "cheaper". Bottom line, the base Eliminator is priced within $200 of the base Rebel 500 because they are in the same market segment.
Just boight rhis bike! NonABS, its the best riding bike ive ever ridden!!! Ill definitely get aftermarket mirrors but other than that its such a fun bike to whip around!!
If the store gets one in the inventory I'll look into doing a review on that bike! I've heard so many good things about the SV650 but never had a chance to take one out on the roadways to put it through the paces. Thanks for watching!
You could definitely get by on it. Your dealership should offer you the free ergo-fit center as well where you can change the seat, bars, and footpegs at no additional cost. At least that's how it is advertised here in the US. Thanks for watching! Ride safe. 😎
When I am off the bike and doing the spec walk around + features I just use my iPhone 14 Pro. When I'm riding the bike, you're viewing that footage through a GoPro Hero 7 Black. Thanks for watching! Ride safe.
Sub 30mpg does not seem particularly good. Pretty important statistic for those that use their bikes on the regular for transport. About the only spec I care about. I found the bike pretty comfortable when I saw it at a dealership but I have no desire for power so if that is the tradeoff that is a turnoff for me. Especially for the premium over a lot of other bikes that are a lot better in that aspect. Also note that a break-in does not mean be gentle despite what the manual says. Kawasaki can't exactly tell you to 'go nuts' on public roads. The ideal break-in is a normal ride. Fast and slow with frequent breaks. You are both rough and gentle. Use the bike like you'd expect it to be used but be gentle and give it time to cool off.
It gets 50+ mpg in the long run. What are your qualifications to give advice on break-in? This is a performance engine in every way and it should be broken in like one or it will eventually be burning oil and never reach it's full potential.
@@thatguynobodylikes6326 I am aware it gets closer to 50 now but that wasn't known to me or many people at the time. My qualifications are research. There is no qualification for breaking in ICE engines. The closest thing to a qualification are the people who perform the tests but they don't write the manuals.
@@SirNarax I asked your qualifications for GIVING ADVICE. What research? Have you been inside fairly new engines that were broken in under different conditions? If no, then you shouldn't try to add to the internet "knowledge". The ideal breakin on these engines is not a "normal ride". Whether anyone likes it or not, the ideal breakin is to hammer on em. High rpm in every gear under load. If you don't, they'll eventually develop blowby and will never reach their full potential. The manual can't tell you to do that because average riders aren't good enough riders and they will miss shifts which is BAD. So they recommend a middle of the road breakin that gives average results.
7:30 Ari Henning did a video for The Shop Manual basically demonstrating that there’s no difference between the recommended run-in procedure and “thrashing it” with a new engine so everyone can calm down.
Hahahaha, your comment is awesome because some dingus STILL commented on this video and said to not take advice from "some cringey dude" about engine break in and to follow OEM guidelines. Funny enough, I linked the Ari Henning video from motorcyclist magazine yesterday to prove a point that there isn't a discernable difference based on how the engine is broken in. Since then, 🦗
Not bad, like the long low drag look, but having to keep looking at that horrible LCD display would be torture. Why the typical offset, classic clocks would have been nice.
How is this bike for a begginer? I am between Kawasaki eliminator, vulcan and the Honda Rebel. Is going to be my first motorcycle. Any advise would be appreciated.
This is a great beginner motorcycle. The Honda Rebel is good as well, and you can’t go wrong with either choice. It will boil down to which one you deem to fit your body best because IMO the stats are so close. Don’t settle for one if you truly desire the other - get the one you want! 🫵😎
Question, has anyone tried this and a Vulcan S? I am just curious because I test rode a Vulcan and thought it was an awful bike. I had considered trying this one but there’s no point if they’re similar, and its a smaller CC (currently ride a 750). Thanks
Hi! I've reviewed the Vulcan S myself (ruclips.net/video/X2007QPw9hU/видео.htmlsi=Qs8kaaLMoLyUzoAY) and found that it feels very similar to the Eliminator in terms of engine characteristics. The most noticeable differences are seating position, weight, and aesthetic. Hope this helps. Thank you for watching and ride safe. 😎
ya know, I knew that bike existed but hadn't really put together in my own head how similarly styled the two machines were. Thanks for bringing that to my attention! Triumph's fit/finish is top tier, at least with their larger displacement (800cc+) machines I've been on. I'm sure they would continue that trend with this new introduction to stick with the brand's reputation for deluxe quality motorcycles. Thanks for watching and ride safe!
I ring in just a bit shorter than that and fit well on the machine. Kawasaki offers the ergo-fit center at no additional charge as well so you can fit it to your specific dimensions better prior to leaving the dealership with one. Hope this helps! Thanks for watching and ride safe.
Thanks for watching! For this video, any scene where I'm off of the motorcycle I did the voiceover after the fact. During the test ride portion of the video, that's raw audio from inside the helmet. In my newer content I have a much better quality wireless microphone for the specs overview and off-bike portions. Ride safe. 😎
I only got to ride the bike for about 30 minutes, but excessive heat isn't something I noticed. I'm sure if you were in stop and go traffic, you'd notice a little bit of heat, but that will be the case with any motorcycle. After all, there are thousands of tiny explosions taking place in a chamber stuffed between your legs when your on two-wheels! 😄
CF really has nailed the styling on the CLC. I mentioned in another comment it will be a disruptor for this market segment. Fingers crossed it makes its way into the US market.
I’m very tempted to buy this as my second bike. I do own a naked bike so I don’t need anything fast but I would like something that’s comfortable for longer trips. Would you say this would be comfortable enough for a couple hours? Also.. it sounded like the bike had quite the powerband in the higher rpm’s? Or was that just the audio I’m hearing incorrectly? I like that it revs high. I’m wondering how this will do with longer highway rides.
This bike can handle some highway miles as you saw, but I wouldn’t call it a mile crusher by any stretch. It can handle a decent haul, and it shines around town as a relaxed city cruiser with some good mid range acceleration. If you’re looking for something that would handle the highway a bit better and isn’t terribly much more, check out the Vulcan 650. I’ve done a review on it as well and it provides more comfort with an engine that leaves little to be desired for chugging down the highway with some RPM to spare. Here’s the link! Thanks for watching. Ride safe. 😎 ruclips.net/video/X2007QPw9hU/видео.html
@@Omni_Moto It wouldn’t be a lot of highway, somewhere around 1-3 hours. I’ve been looking at the Vulcan as well but it being 500 pounds is not ideal for most of what I will use it for.
I had a 2022 Vulcan S and I had to trade it in after a year because of the tail bone issue. Tried a couple seats but i think it's just how the seats lay in there. Curious if the eliminator will be similar.
They did okay. Nothing fancy, but it's a set of mirrors doing what a set of mirrors is supposed to do. Don't let that be the hang up for you if you love the rest of the bike - change them to an aftermarket set! Thanks for watching. Ride safe. 😎
I like that it’s off center because it leaves room for your phone to be mounted without blocking the speedometer. I know not everyone would prefer it this way but works for me.
Not by a lot, but yes. It’s tough to feel a difference on the old butt dyno, and I wouldn’t let that be your deciding factor. Go with whichever one makes you feel warmest and fuzziest!
Rebel takes the win for better fuel consumption. I talk a little about that in my side-by-side comparison video. Check it out here ---> ruclips.net/video/XYB27lRjfKE/видео.html@@serse9570
The Kawasaki is slightly more expensive but delivers more on the performance aspect of the market segment, whereas the Rebel delivers a bit more on the efficiency side it. @@bil19631963
The bike has a lot of things that I like... but the sound is where it loses me. Overall, it looks like an amazing bike, but the sound doesn't do it for me. Idk, I'd have to throw a leg over it and feel if it's comfy. I've come around to liking sport bikes because they're actually comfy now, unlike the 90's and early 2000's, but this and the Vulcan s lose me on the exhaust note. I'll have to see how it does before I get my first bike. It is possibly on the list, but the exhaust note doesn't do it for me. Thanks for a great review, be safe and have fun.
Flat-plane cranks are the sore point of any Japanese parallel twin. That's the biggest issue I have with OEMs using the 180* crank - cruisers traditionally just don't sound like the Eliminator or the Rebel 500. It makes me sad to know that people who buy these bikes with little knowledge don't have much to look forward to when they get an aftermarket exhaust on there. It makes it louder, sure, but it almost doesn't make it better lol. Thanks for watching! Ride safe. 😎
Price is actually $200 more than the Rebel 500. Kawasaki has to price this bike in mind with what the competition offers for comparable models, but if sales are not what they expect and dealerships start sitting on aging inventory, Kawasaki is always really good about rebates and taking care of dealerships, which translates to customer savings.
@Omni_Moto the sales will not be as expected for sure.i had the rebel 500 2022 I sold it, but I want to buy again a bobber not so expensive as the rebel. In this category rebel is the no1. If you want to hit her lower the price at least 500 euro. My opinion of course. Nice bike but you don't hit the rebel with 200 more.
Hey, I can't exactly hunt someone down who fits those dimensions, but I can tell you this motorcycle is offered with Kawasaki's ergo fit package. If you're of that stature, the ergo-fit concept can be really helpful. It's a system that offers ergonomic changes to be performed at a dealership upon purchase (at no additional cost) for the motorcycle to fit you better. Extended reach seat, extended reach bars, and extended reach pegs can make tremendous differences in the way you fit on this machine. If you're lucky enough, you can find a dealership with the Eliminator ergo-fit center display on the showroom floor and have a store associate help you configure it to see what works best for you. Hope this helps! Thanks for watching.
@@wacio It's close! But they do not touch. I was at full lock at one point with the bike during the parking lot segment and had no issue. Good eye though!
Certified Kawasaki tech of 14 years here. Your assessment of the break-in is as accurate as I've seen from a RUclips reviewer. People definitely have a misconception. It's not the static tension from the rings that mate them to the cylinder walls. It's cylinder pressure under a load forcing them to the walls that does it. RPM is your friend during break-in. The only thing I want to say is try not to rev a new motor in neutral like you did at the beginning of the video (or ever, really). It wants to be under a load the entire time when revved. Another misconception is the time it takes to break in. Warm up the engine, then get out on a non-congested highway, and run that bl+ch through every gear just a few hundred rpm short of redline, then decelerate through the gears under a load as well. Then, do it again. Your break in is complete. I've had hundreds of 'new' engines apart. Don't let anyone tell you different. It has to be loaded up and revved to seat the rings and valves. Your video makes me wish I hadn't watched RevZilla's. Very well done. Much better rider than he is. Stay alert out there.
Thanks a ton for sharing! There are a lot of other commenters who insist I am harming these machines, but I think they are mostly just the type to echo whatever they've been told by anyone in their life who rides a motorcycle. This creator (ruclips.net/video/MlmHOMm9gow/видео.html) does a great job of delivering a real explanation that is easy to understand in under 5 minutes, basically just restating everything you mentioned. By no means are we suggesting to ride a brand new bike like you stole it, but you shouldn't be scared to use the machine as it's intended to be used.
As for doing the short segment where I rev the bike, I always ensure it reaches operating temperature before that, but I also recognize what you are saying when it comes to having a load on the engine - That said, I will continue to provide exhaust clips to the audience as I do feel it won't compromise the internals by just doing a short 15 second exhaust clip.
I'm glad you felt I spoke accurately on the subject. Ride safe. 😎
@@Omni_Moto yep, same basic message. I could be a ton more detailed including mentioning a heat cycle or two before my recommendation but the fact is that 99% of engines in any machine have already been heat cycles at the factory. Regarding his oil talk, very much agree that breakin oil is a bad idea. Personally for my consumer engines and for my race engines I use Rotella "diesel" oil 10/40 or 15/40 depending on the engine. Never, ever use synthetics for breakin. Rotella has the highest amount of Zinc in any conventional oil, no friction modifiers which will ruin a motorcycle clutch, and if you turn the bottle around and read you will see that they perform their OWN tests and the oil exceeds JASO MA2 standards. Another benefit to using it is that you can continue to use it, and that it is the only conventional oil available at big box retailers that is JASO MA2 compliant, which means you can get it pretty much anywhere when you need a quart. For the exhaust clips, how about we compromise and you consider doing those clips AFTER the ride segment when the engine has been under pressure and the rings have essentially already been seated. I realize it sounds really picky but that's just the way engine builders are, lol. Have a good one and Let The Good Times Roll.
if i purchased a kawasaki eliminator today, how do i break in properly? do i ride 500 miles first and then change the oil by using the oil ur mentioned or do i do the oil change first then ride 500 miles? sorry, i am pretty new to this ..thank u in advance
@@eddyyong66 Hey there! No worries, we were all new at one point. You ride your motorcycle for 500 miles and then you will change the oil with the Kawasaki recommended oil and filter. Your local Kawasaki dealership should be able to sell you all of the necessary equipment. Thanks for watching! Hope this helps. Ride safe. 😎
Excellent! I've been riding big bikes for 34 years. I had a serious motorcycle accident eight years ago. Now I'm looking for small and medium-displacement bikes. Your vdo is very informative about this type of bike. I'm interested in this Kawasaki because I've come to think as you say here: It's more fun to ride slow bikes fast than to ride fast bikes slow. Thanks a lot!
I did the opposite 😂😂 had a bad crash on my 125cc after reaching 60mph then I went ahead and bought a this motorcycle 😂
I bought this bike a few days ago out about 60ish miles on it so far. And its a good bike im 6.1 and it feels solid to me handles well has power when its needed zero complaints
It's a great all-arounder! Ride safe.
@@Omni_Moto agreed thanks brotha you too :)
Do you still have the Eliminator? How has it been over the last 11 months? Would you recommend it again?
I bought this as my first bike! 5’3 154 lbs and I was flat foot and so comfortable on this bike. Slipper clutch, ABS, low seat height, comfortable seat, and a great cruiser! Great for my daily driver highway/freeway/town. Definitely recommend! I wanted the Honda Rebel but was no where is stock next to me; so glad I went with this (the seat is so much better on the eliminator vs rebel)
I've been convinced since riding both that the Eliminator is the better of the two. Great to hear it's done well for you. Thanks for watching!
girl bike...confirmed
Thanks, man. You just sold this bike. My wife is 65, ready to retire and wants her first bike. Tired of being my pillion for 40 years. The RE 350s are too week. 650s a bit to much. This bike can do 65 without screaming. Perfect! Great review. Got a Kaw dealer 1 mile away too. Convenient.
Glad you found it helpful! She’s going to have a great time. Ride safe. 😎👍
Hi Culus, did your wife choose her bike yet?
Thanks for the low-speed test on the parking lot. This is important and many other videos miss that.
I love how even a 450cc cruiser accelerates faster than cars with V8s…
Motorcycles r kool.
First time watching your stuff, nice video
Thanks for watching! Don’t forget to subscribe for more content in the future. :)
@@Omni_Moto You know what, I really enjoyed your style in this video, so I will subscribe. 🤙🏼
I'm super glad you got your hands on this bike. Thank you for the review 🎉
Thanks for watching! Wouldn't have been possible without the dealership. 😄
This now February 2024 and I’ve just been reviewing the Eliminator at the MCN London show. Superb seating position and perfect for an easy cruise. Would probably change the muffler for something a little nicer but apart from that a perfect daily ride and in my opinion a much nicer seat height than the (far to low) Honda Rebel.
My feelings towards this motorcycle have improved since the first time throwing a leg over one. I'd cash in on one of these over a Rebel 500 all day! Thanks for watching. Ride safe. 😎
One of the best reviews i have seen, lot of information, great roads, great interaction keeping thw whole conversation interesting. Great job my friend!! I really like the idea of using the parking lot to understand ur bike. I am a beginner and plan to have my first bike hopefully soon. Like the Elliminator and heard about Rebel too but not sure if i like the look of the Rebel.
Thank ya kindly! The Eliminator is the better of the two machines in my opinion between it and the Rebel 500. Just my $0.02 but the best thing you can do is go to a dealership that sells both and compare them in person. Thanks for watching and ride safe. 😎
I sat on both and went with Eliminator. It has good power. Only complaint Ihave are the mirrors. Going to order some that stick out further
Nice choice! Thanks for watching.
Loved your review! Very funny, entertaining, and light-hearted, but was still able to get in a good review of the bike. My first (and only) bike was a 2004 Eliminator 125 with the thumper engine. It was a great bike to learn on and I loved riding it, but I definitely outgrew it and learned to ride it to its limits which still made it decently fun to ride. I sold it about 7 years ago and haven’t ridden anything since then. I’d love to get back into riding and I’m thinking this Eliminator 450 might be a nice way to do it! Keep up the great work!
This would be an excellent machine to get back into riding with, especially with your prior experience on a 125. It's a perfect option that can give you confidence to get going again, while also providing enough power to give you a lasting relationship for thrills on 2-wheels. Glad you enjoyed the content. Welcome to the show! 😄
@@Omni_Moto You mentioned the gas tank on how long it is. However, what is its capacity along with the fuel range?
Make it a scrambler
Thanks for the review! First review of this model on the Internet! Appreciate your effort, keep it up!
Glad to hear you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching! Ride safe. 😎
I really wanted a Rebel 500 for my first bike, but this Eliminator is looking like its a very, very strong contender.
Got the eliminator, couldn’t have been happier with the feel
Personally, I would opt for the eliminator. It has more spunk and I like the improved performance aspect it offers.
there are no engines more boring then the Honda 500. The Honda rebel 500 is a dog when you twist the throttle and has spongey suspension.
I bought the 400cc version of the bike being reviewed, here in Thailand we got the 400 instead of the 450.
The 400cc version is faster and more punchy then the 500cc Honda rebel. So, sure the 450cc with it's longer stroke will be even more torquey.
Bottom line, this bike is a muscle cruiser then is a blast to ride in the twisties and I love mine, but it is sprung more like a sport bike then a cruiser, so be ready for a sore backside if the roads are rough.
@@kentcooper8771 trust me you would felt the same if you gone with rebel.
and how is the back suspension.i heard at both bikes kawa and honda are just awfull
I went in to buy a Rebel 500, after sitting on the rebel I was heart Broken! The man escorted me over to the Eliminator amd I fell in Love! So I bought it! It's a great bike! Amazing bike
A friend once told me that it does not matter if you are a beginner or a pro whos been riding motorcycles all your life is always a good thing to have a first date with any new motorcycle on a parking lot to get to know her well before you take it out on the open road...
The new Eliminator is very similar in set up as the old 80's Japanese standard bikes, the concept is the same. The dual rear shocks, mid sized engine and seat/peg positions would make for a fun and simple bike that anyone can enjoy, they should have good success with it.
I saw your video few months ago and I rewatch it today, I was looking forward to when this bike will come out in Europe, turn out that it's today !
Can't wait to go get mine.
Thanks for the review !
Ride safe ✌
Thanks for watching! Hope you get it ASAP and can start enjoying it. Ride safe. 😎
Your videos are gold man. Where are the subscribers.
The future subscribers are out there.. The algorithm just hasn’t quite had a tipping point yet to let other discover the channel. All good though, we add more every day!
Comments like yours mean the most. Thanks for watching. 👊😎
Looks a lot nicer than the Rebel 500 / 300
I think the Rebel 1100. looks better.
@@mikefelshaw9276 No arguing from me, the 1100 looks like a proper cruiser, but it's smaller brothers leave a bit to be desired
This thing looks like shit next to the rebel lmao
Cfmoto 450 crusier
Its nice but the rebel 500 for me is awesome ❤🇵🇭
Love the video. Want to get into riding and I'm looking at this and a speed 400 as my first. Thoughts from vet riders?
I'm having the exact same debate in my head. I'm leaning more towards the Kawi due to higher reliability and greater dealer network.
@@jamesballard6564 This your first bike too? I guess the speed 400 is great but some users have had mechanical issues with it. I'm not sure if that is 100 percent true. Trying to do some research. I think I'll go Eliimnator. There are so many beginner friendly features like the positive neutral finder that I hear is helpful. Got to learn to rid first and go to a msf course.
I rode both. I enjoyed the Speed 400 just because it was really zippy and fun. But it was so tiny, I didn't feel like there was really even anything under me. Settled on the '24 Eliminator SE and couldn't be happier. Great bike! Qualifier: not a vet. New rider, and it's my first bike, so I don't know what I don't know. But I tested this up against the Triumph, Rebel 500, and the RE Super Meteor. Except for the much cooler sound of the RE, the Eliminator was definitely the right choice.
@@sharkymarky7251 This is super helpful. Thank you and stay safe out there. Have fun.
@@aaroncathey6706 :)
Love the sound ❤. I was expecting it to sound a lot like a vulcan 650. Like how twin classic bikes were but this one sounds a lot sporty.
This bike reminded me the 80 ZL 450 and 93 EL 250 I had back in the day. Kawas are something else...
I like the look and the idea as someone who is shopping for their 1st bike. My main worry is I'm 6' 250lbs. I think the Vulcan 650 might be better for my size. I could be WAY wrong.
you'll never know until you go to a dealership and sit on them. although that could be a bit of a pain cuz inventory is still kinda borked
I'm going to say you aren't WAY wrong, but you also aren't WAY right. Both the Eliminator and the Vulcan 650 are rated as new-rider-friendly on their website. The Vulcan would be better suited for your height/weight in my opinion. Get into a dealership showroom and get into the saddle to figure out what works for you! Best of luck!
Get a triumph t120
go to a dealership and have a feel. I'm 5'8 and 180lbs and I ride my Vulcan 650s on weekends.
I just picked up a Husqvarna Norden 901 Expedition as my first bike. More than double the horsepower and Torque figures of this bike as well as +120lbs of weight and a 34" seat height. I'm 6 feet 290lbs, so not too far off from you. My inseam is only 30", which means I have quite short legs for someone my height.
People often say get a 300/400/500 class bike as your first bike. I'm glad I didn't listen. 105hp isn't too much to handle, but the power is there when I'm able to use it. Respect the bike and your own abilities and you'll be fine. Personally I would feel oversized on a bike with a 29" seat height. It really depends on the type of riding you expect to do and if you want some power to get moving when you need to. Many bikes not far from the cost of the bikes you are considering are more substantial with 70-80HP.
Good luck on your search for the perfect 1st bike. I'm enjoying mine quite a bit.
First cruiser I have ever looked at twice.The exhaust pipe looks similar to the one on my x300.
I live in O’Fallon right down the road. Good to see this bike in my surroundings.
Swing down to Big St. Charles to check it out in person! Thanks for watching. :)
Same HP and Torque as the Rebel 500, but with dealers price gouging right now...people are literally paying 8400-10grand for Ninja 400s this will be anywhere between 8-9k. Ill wait till next year and hopefully dealers will come to their senses when they are stiting on last years models.
Definitely a local thing. Lots of dealers around here sell for at MSRP or a few hundred dollars more with fees. Used bikes are the mess. You can buy a ravaged Ninja for less or even more than what you can get used often.
MSRP sure but at least where I live you can find Rebels (300 - 500) or Ninjas around $2k.
Thanks for this video man! First review I have found. I live in Missouri might have to check out this dealer.
They’d be happy to have you! It’s definitely worth stopping in. 😎
Nice job. I wouldn't take the bike at full speed to long at first 500 miles, if I do plan on holding it at 80 for length in near future
It's good to vary the speed during the break-in period. The engine should be exposed to the entire rev range.
Thanks for watching! Ride safe. 😎
Nice bike, great video, fun test ride as well!
Great video brother!
Had a wonderful time watching this. All the way from the Philippines.
Ride safe and enjoy! 👏👏👏👍👍👍
Thanks for showing this bike some attention. A lot of people just talked it down and then moved on in the moto space.
i’d buy one as a scrambler. give me more suspension travel, bigger wheels (maybe spokes), mx bars, and more seat to peg distance. that would be a great commuter.
That sounds like a fun ride! Now that you mention it, Kawasaki doesn't really have a scrambler motorcycle right now, and I think a scrambler variant would be welcomed by the market. Honda, after all, did release their SCL 500 that uses the Rebel 500 powerplant... Kawasaki could just fire back with their own using the competitive 450 engine, but they might hold off until they see how the SCL 500 sells. Good thoughts. Ride safe! 😎
@@Omni_Moto conversely, hard to sell a bike with only 3.5 inches of rear suspension travel.
i just bought my first motorcycle and it was this bike! Its a perfect bike for me and I love it.
Thanks for watching. Congrats on your new motorcycle! Ride safe. 😎
Very cool, congrats! I’ve been looking at the z400 for a year and started wondering if I should get a vulcan 650, but this might be just right. I’m 5’6” 160 lbs 53 years old, used to have a 250 ninja years back. Any advice? Does the es have abs or only the abs model?
@@trailguy The Eliminator only gets ABS if the specific model you are looking at denotes it. ABS is not a standard feature. It sounds like you'll fit on one great though! Get in a showroom and find out. 😎
I really hopeful that cfmoto brings that 450 cruiser.
I think I am going to make some time for a video about the CL-C 450. I really like the look of it, and I think it is going to be a disruptor to the entry-level cruiser market. It will give the Eliminator and the Rebel 500 some competition for sure. I don't see any reason for CF to hold back on that bike along with the 450NK. The engine already meets emission requirements with the SS, but as a global OEM, it won't show up in US markets overnight. We'll just have to be patient and wait and see! 😄
@Omni_Moto I agree. Have hard time seeing them ignoring the biggest consumer of cruisers. The biggest advantage to me for the cl-c is the fact if belt drive
Harbor Freight should come out with a 647 Predator cruiser motorcycle.
@@heritagehillsecurity8778 🔥🔥🔥
Chinese garbage should be banned.
I live about 2 hrs west of where you are , I am gonna come check this dealer out
Swing on by! I know Big St. Charles would be happy to have you in the showroom. 😎 Thanks for watching!
I love mine. Just put 100 miles on it. It is fun for sure
Very nice! Such an enjoyable machine. Thanks for watching and ride safe. 😎
I always go back and forth between this and a new Harely Nighster.
Super different machines with super different prices. The Nightster has much more performance and technology to offer to enhance your riding experience - because of that, it comes at a premium cost. You can expect to pay as much as $16K (USD) for a new one depending on trim level and where you buy, whereas a new Eliminator should always be available for less than $8.5K (USD), even after potential dealer fees.
If money is of no issue to you, I'd say splurge for the Nightster. It's a very fun machine to ride, and you'll get at least a year of use out of its power offering. The Eliminator is wicked cost-effective in comparison, but it can be underwhelming because of its small displacement - if you're not focused on speed, features, or tech, it's a very easy choice to scoop up the Eliminator.
Thanks for watching! Ride safe.
Thanks for your feedback! My first few bikes were Triumph, and I hated them, TBH. I didn't match the riding style like I thought. So I'm hoping to get it right this time!
@@Omni_Moto
Hey Omni Man! Great to see you enjoying the sun & mini adventure! Great company behind you there! Good job looking after your sponsors👌 That’s a great little cruiser! Don’t think we get them here in Aus. Actually, never seen one before. Is this a new model or a refresh of an existing?🤔 Gees you’re a funny dude! You’d be a hoot to go out for beers & a bite to eat🤙 Take care buddy keep plugged on & thanks for your energy & content⭐️
Hey Steve, thanks for tuning in! The Eliminator is a completely new motorcycle for the 2024 model year here in the USA, but had a grandfather eliminator dating as far back as the 1980's. It really is the original "power cruiser", utilizing HP (kilowatt) focused engines. The OG eliminator was available in about 9 different configurations/engine sizes in varying countries, with the most popular models appearing to be the 900 and 1000cc variants. Here's the wiki on it if you want to read up on it! en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kawasaki_Eliminator
Ride safe bromigo. 😎
I like this guy he’s entertaining
_blush_
Yep, break it in to the way you're going to ride it except no long periods at a fixed speed.
Think they missed the mark on the pricing it needed to be somewhere close to its 400 cousins. Right now it’s bumping right up against the 650s and z650.
Yup and with a lot of dealers price gouging, this will be 9 grand
Nice yoda impression :D
I'm looking for a new first motorcycle. Which one would you recommend between and a Honda Rebel 500? I think they both look great, at least :)
Thanks for watching! If you desire performance out of your motorcycle, the eliminator handles better and the engine has more gusto. The Rebel is a great ride as well though with a proven track record. I'd say the best way to decide is to seek them out at a dealership and sit on both!
Personally, I like the eliminator more. All the best! Ride safe. 😎
@@Omni_Moto I mean, I don't really need performance being an absolute beginner. Performance would just make me do stupid shit.
But thanks, I'll try to hop on both. Kinda felt you're leaning towards the Eliminator :D
I don't really get a cruiser vibe from this bike. It's more neo retro n I love it
It's a cruiser with some great design choices to make it appeal to a wide variety of riders who want a unique aesthetic. Thanks for watching and ride safe! 😎
@@Omni_Moto it reminds me of the xsr 700.
Nice review.
Does anybody know what the yellow small light blinking at the dash is.
It's the check engine light. Since it's brand new it has not gone through the service center like it would before a customer takes delivery. The service technician who does the pre-delivery inspection will also clear that out and it will go away upon warranty registration. Thanks for watching!
Like a Vulcan s. Not sure I see a place for it with the Vulcan.
Tough to say where this bike fits in, but with the success, Honda has seen out of their 300/500cc platform for the Rebel, I think the Eliminator fills a gap in the Kawasaki cruiser line-up and bridges the space between the two rebels very well. From a marketing perspective, the 450 Eliminator could be the solution for many having trouble trying to decide between the 300 and 500 Rebels. Time will tell. Thanks for watching! 😄
Way more fun than a Vulcan S. Engine feels a lot like my old ninja 500. Vulcan s feels very pedestrian by comparison.
The price is too close to the vulcan 650 imo. If it was cheaper then it would've made more sense
Thank you for your review. Based on this, would you recommend this over the Vulcan 650? I want to pull the plug on one of these, but confused about it. THey are not super apart in terms of pricing. Would a difference of 200cc make a big difference in terms of power?
Hey, great question! The Vulcan 650 is rated as "new-rider friendly" on Kawasaki's website. In my personal opinion, if you are confident enough to start on the Eliminator, you shouldn't rule out the Vulcan 650. The extra 200CC can make a big difference in both top end and acceleration, so it's wise to respect the Vulcan's throttle at first before you go digging into it, whereas the Eliminator is a bit more forgiving if you give it the beans. Another variable to consider is how long you think the power of the Eliminator will keep you happy vs. the Vulcan. Upgrading sooner means you're getting less utility out of your purchase, which means you are losing more $$$.
It's a tough call for me to make without knowing your experience on two wheels. The most basic answer I can give is if you trust yourself to have throttle control and discipline on the brakes, you're going to be okay on the Vulcan 650. If you are waffling at all on that, it's better to play it safe and go for the Eliminator.
@@Omni_Moto thank you. It helps with my decision. I'm pretty comfortable with Vulcans power so will get that. Appreciate your insights.
I think it makes more sense than the Vulcan 650. First I love the Vulcan 650 and the idea of it, but it’s really niche. It’s more for an experienced rider who wants something easy playful chuckable and cheap. Like my old shadow 500. But I think a part of the appeal of having a bike like that in your stable is you can put the new rider in your group on it, and I think the 650 is a little intimidating for someone who’s never even ridden a scooter. I think the eliminator will fit the bill better. Then a person can move into the versys Vulcan or ninja 650
I put 14,000 miles on my Vulcan 650 as my first bike. Taught 7 people how to ride on it in 2 years, and then gave it away to one of those 7. I daily my wife’s Ninja 400 now, and like how this 450 looks.
I had a Vulcan 900 Classic as my first motorcycle. I sold it and I’m looking at the Vulcan S, Ninja 400, and this eliminator. I’m not sure what to get. I think I might need a test ride.
Wow, I wonder why it costs so much more than the z400 and Ninja 400. I would think the Vulcan S is a better purchase for your dollar if you're looking for a sporty cruiser.
Yeah that's true, for just about 1k more you can just upgrade to the vulcan s. This bike should've been priced closer to 5k
Hey there, thanks for watching! I think the biggest reason Kawasaki has this bike priced the way they do is because it's where the competition (Honda Rebel 500) is priced.
Pricing is a strange marketing dynamic in the world of motorcycles. It doesn't always hinge on what pricing is for other models the OEM produces, but rather what the other players in the industry price their competitive models at. If you price it lower than the competition you'll get a mix of people who want the savings and the other end will be individuals who see an inferior product because it's "cheaper".
Bottom line, the base Eliminator is priced within $200 of the base Rebel 500 because they are in the same market segment.
@@Omni_Moto Even so, may as well go with the Vulcan S. Not that much more expensive and is arguably a much better bang for your buck
*It's more fun to ride slow bikes fast than to ride fast bikes slow*
I can't wait for it to arrive in Italy so I can drive it in Tuscany
Just boight rhis bike! NonABS, its the best riding bike ive ever ridden!!! Ill definitely get aftermarket mirrors but other than that its such a fun bike to whip around!!
Nice review and thanx :) will be nice if you can make a review of the legendary Suzuki SV650 :)
If the store gets one in the inventory I'll look into doing a review on that bike! I've heard so many good things about the SV650 but never had a chance to take one out on the roadways to put it through the paces. Thanks for watching!
Excellent video
That’s a pretty nice helmet that I am unfamiliar with. Mind sharing what the make and model of it is?
It’s the Ruroc Atlas 4.0 in the Ghost color scheme. Thanks for watching!
Pls do a review of the CF Moto CLC 450.
If it was available in the USA I'd say okay, but seeing as it's not on US soil yet, no can do compadre.
Do you recommend it for a 6ft 78 kg man? Thanks bro
You could definitely get by on it. Your dealership should offer you the free ergo-fit center as well where you can change the seat, bars, and footpegs at no additional cost. At least that's how it is advertised here in the US.
Thanks for watching! Ride safe. 😎
The power difference between Kawasaki eliminator & vulcan s becomes narrow when you notice that this is 80kg lighter than vulcan s.
The tank design is sexy AF
Appreciate the review!
Did you realize you had a helmet on the whole time?
What’s a helmet?
Great video!Does it have quickshifter?
Thank you for watching! There is no quick shifter equipped on this motorcycle.
What camera are you using?
When I am off the bike and doing the spec walk around + features I just use my iPhone 14 Pro.
When I'm riding the bike, you're viewing that footage through a GoPro Hero 7 Black.
Thanks for watching! Ride safe.
@@Omni_Moto thank you for the quick response. Making sure I’m subscribed because of it. You stay safe as well.
i can't tell if i hate it or not. I think getting a different pipe and exhaust on there will go a big way in improving its looks
Almost every motorcycle from Japan benefits from an exhaust in my opinion. Not just in curb appeal, but the weight savings from it as well.
@@Omni_Moto I'm back to watch the video again and I think it's growing on me haha
@@gm2256 Welcome back. The more I see it in dealership showrooms the more I like it. The white color scheme is very sharp!
Sub 30mpg does not seem particularly good. Pretty important statistic for those that use their bikes on the regular for transport. About the only spec I care about. I found the bike pretty comfortable when I saw it at a dealership but I have no desire for power so if that is the tradeoff that is a turnoff for me. Especially for the premium over a lot of other bikes that are a lot better in that aspect.
Also note that a break-in does not mean be gentle despite what the manual says. Kawasaki can't exactly tell you to 'go nuts' on public roads. The ideal break-in is a normal ride. Fast and slow with frequent breaks. You are both rough and gentle. Use the bike like you'd expect it to be used but be gentle and give it time to cool off.
It gets 50+ mpg in the long run.
What are your qualifications to give advice on break-in? This is a performance engine in every way and it should be broken in like one or it will eventually be burning oil and never reach it's full potential.
@@thatguynobodylikes6326 I am aware it gets closer to 50 now but that wasn't known to me or many people at the time.
My qualifications are research. There is no qualification for breaking in ICE engines. The closest thing to a qualification are the people who perform the tests but they don't write the manuals.
@@SirNarax I asked your qualifications for GIVING ADVICE. What research? Have you been inside fairly new engines that were broken in under different conditions? If no, then you shouldn't try to add to the internet "knowledge".
The ideal breakin on these engines is not a "normal ride". Whether anyone likes it or not, the ideal breakin is to hammer on em. High rpm in every gear under load. If you don't, they'll eventually develop blowby and will never reach their full potential. The manual can't tell you to do that because average riders aren't good enough riders and they will miss shifts which is BAD. So they recommend a middle of the road breakin that gives average results.
@@thatguynobodylikes6326 Reading comprehension is an issue isn't it?
@@SirNarax yes for you it apparently is. You literally said that ideal breakin is a "normal ride". As I clearly explained, it is not.
Agreed on the break in procedure , I got a CRF rally I broke in that way 2 yrs ago , runs like a raped ape with a KandN filter and new can , still.
Plain and simple: Just ride the bike 😎
Thanks for watching!
This is going to be sold before it hits the market
7:30 Ari Henning did a video for The Shop Manual basically demonstrating that there’s no difference between the recommended run-in procedure and “thrashing it” with a new engine so everyone can calm down.
Hahahaha, your comment is awesome because some dingus STILL commented on this video and said to not take advice from "some cringey dude" about engine break in and to follow OEM guidelines. Funny enough, I linked the Ari Henning video from motorcyclist magazine yesterday to prove a point that there isn't a discernable difference based on how the engine is broken in. Since then, 🦗
Looks kinda like a Monster or SV. Not really a cruiser, looks fun!
Fun is the best word I can think of to describe riding this bike. Thanks for watching!
Not bad, like the long low drag look, but having to keep looking at that horrible LCD display would be torture. Why the typical offset, classic clocks would have been nice.
How is this bike for a begginer? I am between Kawasaki eliminator, vulcan and the Honda Rebel. Is going to be my first motorcycle. Any advise would be appreciated.
This is a great beginner motorcycle. The Honda Rebel is good as well, and you can’t go wrong with either choice. It will boil down to which one you deem to fit your body best because IMO the stats are so close. Don’t settle for one if you truly desire the other - get the one you want! 🫵😎
We have an abundance of entry level / beginner sport cruisers... Can someone bring out a 4 cylinder 1000cc beast of a sports cruiser?!?
Yamaha Vmax
Question, has anyone tried this and a Vulcan S? I am just curious because I test rode a Vulcan and thought it was an awful bike. I had considered trying this one but there’s no point if they’re similar, and its a smaller CC (currently ride a 750). Thanks
Hi! I've reviewed the Vulcan S myself (ruclips.net/video/X2007QPw9hU/видео.htmlsi=Qs8kaaLMoLyUzoAY) and found that it feels very similar to the Eliminator in terms of engine characteristics. The most noticeable differences are seating position, weight, and aesthetic. Hope this helps. Thank you for watching and ride safe. 😎
Thank you for your reply!
Good starter bike
I think I like the new Triumph Speed a bit more. Nice review. 🤙
ya know, I knew that bike existed but hadn't really put together in my own head how similarly styled the two machines were. Thanks for bringing that to my attention! Triumph's fit/finish is top tier, at least with their larger displacement (800cc+) machines I've been on. I'm sure they would continue that trend with this new introduction to stick with the brand's reputation for deluxe quality motorcycles. Thanks for watching and ride safe!
@@Omni_Moto hopefully when they arrive here, you get to review it. 🤙
How fit for a person tall 1,90 m?
I ring in just a bit shorter than that and fit well on the machine. Kawasaki offers the ergo-fit center at no additional charge as well so you can fit it to your specific dimensions better prior to leaving the dealership with one.
Hope this helps! Thanks for watching and ride safe.
Genuinely curious if you're actually doing the voice-over in the video as you record it, or after lol
Thanks for watching! For this video, any scene where I'm off of the motorcycle I did the voiceover after the fact. During the test ride portion of the video, that's raw audio from inside the helmet. In my newer content I have a much better quality wireless microphone for the specs overview and off-bike portions.
Ride safe. 😎
Is it better than the Honda Rebel 500?
yes
Does it hav a slipper clutch?
Negative.
Is that 4.43seconds 0-60mph or kph?
MPH.
doesthe engine feel hot on your legs when youre going for long rides?
I only got to ride the bike for about 30 minutes, but excessive heat isn't something I noticed. I'm sure if you were in stop and go traffic, you'd notice a little bit of heat, but that will be the case with any motorcycle. After all, there are thousands of tiny explosions taking place in a chamber stuffed between your legs when your on two-wheels! 😄
I think CLC450 has a better good looking than the eliminator.
CF really has nailed the styling on the CLC. I mentioned in another comment it will be a disruptor for this market segment. Fingers crossed it makes its way into the US market.
competitive pricing but damn that display is so goddam dark.
I have a review posting Sunday for the Rebel 500... Wait until you see that display. 😳
glove information plz~
Link! imp.i104546.net/NkommN
I’m very tempted to buy this as my second bike. I do own a naked bike so I don’t need anything fast but I would like something that’s comfortable for longer trips. Would you say this would be comfortable enough for a couple hours? Also.. it sounded like the bike had quite the powerband in the higher rpm’s? Or was that just the audio I’m hearing incorrectly? I like that it revs high. I’m wondering how this will do with longer highway rides.
This bike can handle some highway miles as you saw, but I wouldn’t call it a mile crusher by any stretch. It can handle a decent haul, and it shines around town as a relaxed city cruiser with some good mid range acceleration.
If you’re looking for something that would handle the highway a bit better and isn’t terribly much more, check out the Vulcan 650. I’ve done a review on it as well and it provides more comfort with an engine that leaves little to be desired for chugging down the highway with some RPM to spare. Here’s the link! Thanks for watching. Ride safe. 😎
ruclips.net/video/X2007QPw9hU/видео.html
@@Omni_Moto
It wouldn’t be a lot of highway, somewhere around 1-3 hours. I’ve been looking at the Vulcan as well but it being 500 pounds is not ideal for most of what I will use it for.
I had a 2022 Vulcan S and I had to trade it in after a year because of the tail bone issue. Tried a couple seats but i think it's just how the seats lay in there. Curious if the eliminator will be similar.
I think that's a universal cruiser problem. Not being able to stand up over big bumps wrecks your tailbone.
@@judge831 You're probably right because I switched to a sport bike and haven't had any issues since then.
What’s the top speed ?
Estimated 105-115 MPH.
I luv it, but the mirrors look useless.
They did okay. Nothing fancy, but it's a set of mirrors doing what a set of mirrors is supposed to do. Don't let that be the hang up for you if you love the rest of the bike - change them to an aftermarket set! Thanks for watching. Ride safe. 😎
What do you think about Kawasaki 400 SE?
Sounds like a model that is not sold here in the US, but we have the KRT edition, which I think is god-awful ugly with the green/red color combo.
other than the dash being off center, it seems to be a swell bike
I like that it’s off center because it leaves room for your phone to be mounted without blocking the speedometer. I know not everyone would prefer it this way but works for me.
Is faster than a rebel 500?
Not by a lot, but yes. It’s tough to feel a difference on the old butt dyno, and I wouldn’t let that be your deciding factor. Go with whichever one makes you feel warmest and fuzziest!
@@Omni_Moto what about fuel consumption?
Rebel takes the win for better fuel consumption. I talk a little about that in my side-by-side comparison video. Check it out here ---> ruclips.net/video/XYB27lRjfKE/видео.html@@serse9570
Headlight should be bit upper
What is the price for this kawasaki 400 and for Honda Rebel 500?
Kawasaki Eliminator starting MSRP $6,649
Honda Rebel 500 starting MSRP $6,449
@@Omni_Moto well with the price between usd/euro almost the same. Price of Rebel 500 in Greece is about 7200 up to 7600 euro .... expensive....
So kawa will be more expensive.....i will keep my Rebel...
The Kawasaki is slightly more expensive but delivers more on the performance aspect of the market segment, whereas the Rebel delivers a bit more on the efficiency side it. @@bil19631963
The bike has a lot of things that I like... but the sound is where it loses me. Overall, it looks like an amazing bike, but the sound doesn't do it for me. Idk, I'd have to throw a leg over it and feel if it's comfy. I've come around to liking sport bikes because they're actually comfy now, unlike the 90's and early 2000's, but this and the Vulcan s lose me on the exhaust note. I'll have to see how it does before I get my first bike. It is possibly on the list, but the exhaust note doesn't do it for me. Thanks for a great review, be safe and have fun.
Flat-plane cranks are the sore point of any Japanese parallel twin. That's the biggest issue I have with OEMs using the 180* crank - cruisers traditionally just don't sound like the Eliminator or the Rebel 500. It makes me sad to know that people who buy these bikes with little knowledge don't have much to look forward to when they get an aftermarket exhaust on there. It makes it louder, sure, but it almost doesn't make it better lol.
Thanks for watching! Ride safe. 😎
Just gonna say this. A car that can do 0 to 60 in 4.18 seconds will cost over 100 thousand dollars. And thousands more to insure.
What is your height sir
6'1" or 185.5 centimeters
Frame and bars might be powder coated...😮
Price ? If it is at least 1000$ below rebel is OK. But is kawasaki high prices so no for me.
Price is actually $200 more than the Rebel 500. Kawasaki has to price this bike in mind with what the competition offers for comparable models, but if sales are not what they expect and dealerships start sitting on aging inventory, Kawasaki is always really good about rebates and taking care of dealerships, which translates to customer savings.
@Omni_Moto the sales will not be as expected for sure.i had the rebel 500 2022 I sold it, but I want to buy again a bobber not so expensive as the rebel. In this category rebel is the no1. If you want to hit her lower the price at least 500 euro. My opinion of course. Nice bike but you don't hit the rebel with 200 more.
Lucky guy
Don't I know it
Can you find someone who rides and is 6foot 5inch
Hey, I can't exactly hunt someone down who fits those dimensions, but I can tell you this motorcycle is offered with Kawasaki's ergo fit package. If you're of that stature, the ergo-fit concept can be really helpful.
It's a system that offers ergonomic changes to be performed at a dealership upon purchase (at no additional cost) for the motorcycle to fit you better. Extended reach seat, extended reach bars, and extended reach pegs can make tremendous differences in the way you fit on this machine.
If you're lucky enough, you can find a dealership with the Eliminator ergo-fit center display on the showroom floor and have a store associate help you configure it to see what works best for you.
Hope this helps! Thanks for watching.
Are the handlebars touching tank when turning?
Nope.
@@Omni_Moto ruclips.net/video/XKVlSkq5XlU/видео.html this right here looks awfully close.
@@wacio It's close! But they do not touch. I was at full lock at one point with the bike during the parking lot segment and had no issue. Good eye though!