Sven’s pick:    Kawasaki Eliminator

Kawasaki Eliminator

This is the epitome of “entry bike”. It’s small, simple, and dirt cheap compared to what is available. I can’t necessarily comment on the bikes performance capabilities, since I didn’t even get the bike above 30 mph, and even if I managed to, it was only for a fraction of a second. I would love to talk about its “superb torque band” and how “I can throw it into any turn and it begs for more” but I just can’t. My time on the motorcycle was solely for learning purposes. I did manage to take it on some sweeping turns and slaloms at a cool 15-20 mph. Oddly that lil bike felt like a guilty pleasure. For a tiny 250cc cruiser*, it is impressive that it can get up to 80 mph. Yes, the speedo goes only up to 80 mph… weird. The KAWI is a great little bike to commute on if you take surface streets. It’s light and fairly nimble for what you get, and you can’t beat the ridiculous fuel economy that is comparable to scooters and mopeds (without the pathetic look of one).

*Currently Kawasaki sells the Eliminator in a 125cc engine package. At one time a 250cc model  did exist.

2009 Kawasaki Eliminator Specs

Engine:                                                  4- cylinder, Air cooled, SOHC

Displacement:                                     124cc

Transmission:                                     5 speed

Final Drive:                                          Chain

Frame:                                                   Double cradle, high-tensile steel

Suspension:

Front:                                   33mm hydraulic telescopic fork

Rear:                                     Twin shocks w/ five-way adjustable preload

Brakes:

Front:                                    Single hydraulic disc

Rear:                                      Drum

Tank Capacity:                                   3.4 gal

Dimensions:                                        84.6’ L x 30.7’ W x 41.3’ H

Curb Weight:                                      319.6 lbs.

Est MPG:                                              95 MPG

MSRP:                                                   $ 2,799