Amidst our recession , increases in registration and insurance fees and over-inflated petrol prices , the world is having to slow down . Machines like the Yamaha V-Max , Ducati Diavel and Triumph Rocket 3 are the preserve of the wealthy . Learner bikes now dominate the pointy end of the sales market . And in the landscape of escalating running costs and the affordability of modern bikes , Kawasaki has come to the table with a rebirth of an original sports-based cruiser ; the Eliminator . Released to the world in the mid-80s , the Eliminator was known for its blend of performance , style and comfort . It started with big capacity motors like the 900 and 750 , but later adopted smaller engines . It was exceptional in the learner market for its ease of use , low seat height and reliability . A combination of good old American cruiser styling but with precision Japanese engineering , Kawasaki ’ s all-new Eliminator has achieved this yet again with the new 451cc version , and I couldn ’ t wait to get my grubby hands on it . I have always been a sportsbike rider , but this bike might just be the tipping point for me . The typically loud , macho attitude of our local cruiser owners have deterred me from the large segment of our local motorcycle market . But given how sensible , yet badass this bike looks , it had me hooked .
AT FIRST GLANCE My initial thought was ‘ simple and clean ’. The small amount of bodywork pops from the sleek black frame and engine . This is the SE model brilliantly finished with Phantom Blue paintwork , and I really dig the headlight cowl ’ s simplicity - something that can be universally appreciated . The fat sidewalls on the 18-inch front and 16- inch rear tyres give it a classic look . Although the standard exhaust is rather substantial , it ’ s neat and doesn ’ t detract from the overall look of the bike . The seat height is low , making it accessible for riders of any stature . I do like the finish of the seat itself , it feels super comfortable , nice and wide with good quality padding . The overall finish of the controls is great for the bike ’ s price point , all of the switches feel good with plenty of positive feedback , I ’ m sure many others will appreciate its satisfying qualities . The dashboard on the Eliminator is very simplistic . However , it ’ s not all as it seems as it can be synced straight to your mobile phone
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