Kwacker cracker with new models galore
Kawasaki has really pushed the boat out, or should that be motorbikes, for 2024 with new models galore.
Having launched the Ninja ZX-4RR, all-electric Ninja and Z e-1 and some Ninja 40th anniversary special colourways, Kawasaki continues its new-model offensive with its first hybrids, more Ninja 40th anniversary versions of the ZX-10R, 1000SX and 650, new 500 twins and the Eliminator cruiser for 2024.
7 Hybrids
Having unveiled the learner-friendly, all-electric Z and Ninja e-1, Kawasaki has launched the first hybrid motorbikes.
The Z and Ninja 7 Hybrids are due to arrive in showrooms from January.
Power comes from an innovative combination of a new petrol 451cc parallel twin, water-cooled four-stroke engine, with automated six-speed transmission which can also be used manually, and a 9kW traction motor plus battery.
Power rises from 59PS to 69PS by using the ‘e-boost’ button. Torque is an impressive combined 60.4Nm at just 2,800rpm.
At 227kg, the Ninja 7 Hybrid is a mid-size package offering 650 to 700cc class performance, instant acceleration to rival a 1,000cc-class supersport model from a standing start and fuel economy on a par with a 250cc.
There are three riding modes – sport-hybrid, eco-hybrid and low-speed short-distance EV.
Economy is claimed to be 77mpg in eco hybrid and 71mpg in sport hybrid.
Innovative features include idling stop to turn the petrol engine off when stationary to save fuel and cut emissions, automatic launch position finder selects first gear at a standstill plus a forward and reverse ‘walk mode’ to aid low-speed manoeuvring and parking.
The Ninja 7 Hybrid combines a matt lime green under-cowl with silver and black bodywork.
The Z 7 Hybrid is finished in metallic bright silver, metallic matte lime green and ebony or metallic matte graphensteel, graphite grey and ebony.
40th anniversary Ninja ZX-10Rs
Three stunning Ninja ZX-10Rs, inspired by retro colour schemes from the last four decades voted for by fans, are now available to order.
We love the ebony and metallic eventide (purple and pink) but the ZX-10R also comes in lime green, pearly alpine white and sunbeam red or blue.
Just 40 of the £26,599 ZX-10Rs are available, each with an anniversary plate.
Based on the Performance Edition, they have an Akrapovič muffler, pillion seat cover, smoked windshield and tank pad. Customers also receive a paddock stand, special bike cover and 40th anniversary keyring.
40th anniversary Ninja 1000SX and 650
Kawasaki has unveiled two more 40th anniversary 2024 models based on the famous 1985 Ninja GPZ900R colours.
The special Ninja 1000SX and Ninja 650, in ebony, silver and firecracker red livery, hark back to early USA market Ninjas, sold here as the GPZ.
The Ninja 1000SX is £12,399 and the 650 £7,589.
Ninja and Z500
New Ninja 500 and Z500 models boost Kawasaki’s sales assault in the hard-fought mid-capacity sector and should appeal to A2 driving licence holders as well as more experienced riders.
The new 451cc, parallel twin, water-cooled engine, with an assist and slipper clutch, produces 45.4PS at 9,000rpm and 42.6Nm of torque.
The lightweight trellis-type chassis delivers reassuring handling and a 785mm high seat makes reaching the ground easy.
Both Z and Ninja will also be available as Special Edition models with their own livery, an under-cowl, colour TFT meter to access information via the latest Kawasaki Rideology smartphone app and USB-C outlet.
The Z500 is finished in metallic spark black and metallic matte graphenesteel grey. The SE model is candy persimmon red or lime green mated to metallic spark black and matte graphenesteel grey.
The Ninja 500 comes in metallic spark black and flat raw greystone. The SE is lime green and ebony or metallic matte dark grey, flat spark black and moondust grey.
Prices are yet to be revealed.
Eliminator 500
The new Eliminator 500 cruiser, available from January, also uses the 451cc twin.
The engine has strong low-end torque and the Eliminator boasts light, confidence-inspiring handling.
This low-slung cruiser has a 735mm seat height, natural riding position and 18in front and 16in rear wheels.
An SE model has a special colour and graphic package, headlamp cowl, rubber fork boots, USB-C port on the handlebar and special seat with a distinctive stitching pattern.
Check out the latest Kawasaki range at orwell.co.uk/kawasaki/new-kawasaki-motorcycle-range