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Last month, Kawasaki teased its 2024 lineup. Fanboys dissected promo videos. Moto journalists rifled through certification docs. In short, speculation ran rampant. Little did we know that the models were right under our noses all along.
Today, June 6, 2023, Kawasaki officially unveils its 2024 range. Apart from the all-new Eliminator, the new models consist of changes to existing bikes, including a heavily revised Ninja ZX-6R supersport and KX450 motocross family. Here are the top takeaways.
The Kawasaki Eliminator is back in business
The Eliminator nameplate dates back to 1985, but the all-new 2024 Eliminator amps up the attitude with a sleek, modern design and a 451 cc parallel-twin engine. Based on the wundermill powering in the trusty Ninja 400, the new platform benefits from an additional 6.8 mm of stroke. That configuration not only delivers strong low-end torque but also yields a friendly riding experience for beginners.
That torquey twin mates to a six-speed gearbox with a final drive ratio that suits both cruising up Main Street and blasting down the highway. A slipper/assist clutch also welcomes newcomers with a light lever pull, mitigating rear wheel hopping and engine lock-ups all the while.
Kawasaki plunks that well equipped powertrain into a trellis frame designed to “provide light, natural handling." To maintain the chassis flex characteristics, the square-tube swingarm bolts directly to the engine via a die-cast aluminum mount plate. Still, the 18-inch front and 16-inch rear wheel uphold the long-and-lean cruiser stance. A two-piston caliper and a 310 mm petal disc up front bring the Eliminator to a halt while a two-pot binder and 220 mm rotor steady the rear.
Equal parts classic and contemporary, a round LED headlamp lights the way with dual high/low beam chambers. In the same vein, the circular LCD instrument panel relays information such as speed, gear position, and remaining fuel range while also offering Bluetooth connectivity.
Along with the base model, Kawasaki introduces the Eliminator SE ABS for 2024. The premium variant stands apart thanks to a two-tone orange/black paint job, fork boots, and a headlight cowl. A two-pattern seat cover completes the makeover, but a USB-C outlet keeps the rider connected over the long haul. Kawi hasn’t disclosed the model’s official curb weight, horsepower, or torque, but we expect the Eliminator lineup to compete with Honda’s Rebel 500.
As such, the 2024 Eliminator starts at $6,649 in Pearl Robotic White and Pearl Storm Gray color options. The ABS-equipped model carries a $6,949 price tag and is available in Pearl Robotic White and Metallic Flat Spark Black. At $7,249, the Eliminator SE only comes in the Candy Steel Furnace Orange/Ebony color scheme. All variants are now available at Kawasaki dealerships.
A new era for the "636"
While most 600 cc supersport models now wither on the vine, Kawasaki continues to invest in the iconic Ninja ZX-6R. For 2024, the “636” retains its namesake capacity, but the liquid-cooled inline-four engine features revised cam profiles to optimize low-rpm performance. New intake funnels also aid the low- and mid-range, while the reconfigured exhaust system layout results in cleaner emissions.
Team Green matches that brawn with brains, adopting a full-color, 4.3-inch TFT display with smartphone connectivity. The new system also boasts three integrated ride modes (Sport, Road, and Rain) that automatically adjust traction control and power settings. A manual mode also allows the user to adjust the settings to personal preferences.
On the safety front, a new ABS unit now pulls data from the bike’s wheel-speed sensors, caliper pressure monitors, and ECU. When it comes to hardware, a pair of large-diameter, stainless-steel, 310 mm discs maximize stopping power. The new Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV tires remain dynamic as well, accommodating both road and track use.
Together with a sporty new windscreen, the ZX-6R also earns a resculpted front cowl. That facelift not only aligns the 636 with the recently updated Ninja ZX-10R, but also forges a new identity for the supersport model. On the practical side, LED headlights and turn signals improve visibility.
Available in Metallic Flat Spark Black/Ebony and Pearl Robotic White/Metallic Graphite Gray, the standard model and ABS trim retail for $11,299 and $12,299, respectively. Surprisingly, Kawasaki offers both variants in its race-inspired KRT Edition livery with no upcharge. Just like the Eliminator, the revamped ZX-6R is currently rolling into Kawasaki showrooms.
To greater heights on the MX track and the trails
The KX450 returns to lead Team Green’s motocross charge in 2024. This is no minor tweak, either, with Kawasaki overhauling everything from the engine to the chassis to the electronics. When it comes to the 449 cc single, the engineers shifted and reshaped the valves, modified the intake and exhaust ports, and rerouted the exhaust system. The revisions not only improve power across the rev range but also centralize mass for refined feel and feedback.
An all-new aluminum perimeter frame takes full advantage of that updated thumper. The lightweight frame enhances front-end feeling and multi-terrain traction with reworked dimensions and rigidity. A Brembo front braking system graces the KX platform for the first time, while the tried-and-true Nissin braking system remains at the rear.
Completing the race-inspired refresh, streamlined bodywork augments the rider’s range of motion. ODI Lock-On grips only facilitate the user’s control over the bike. When it's maintenance time, a new quick-release side cover grants tool-less access to the air filter.
It’s just as convenient to tailor the KX450’s rider aids. With a mode switch now located at the left handlebar, the rider can easily adjust traction control (strong, weak, and off), toggle power modes (normal and mild), and activate launch control. Smartphone connectivity also unlocks power mode mapping, allowing owners to alter fuel and ignition timing through Kawasaki’s RIDEOLOGY THE APP.
At the KX450’s side, the KX450X earns the same upgrades. However, the cross-country competition model sports variant-specific engine tuning, softer suspension settings, and race-ready tires. Both the KX450 and KX450X champion Kawasaki’s legendary lime green livery. The motocrosser retails for $10,399, while its cross-country counterpart commands $10,599. Off-road riders can expect the new KX450 family to arrive at Kawasaki dealers in fall 2023.
