Cruiser · 2026
Expressway-LegalKawasaki Eliminator 2026 Philippines
₱340,000 — ₱360,000
51
Expressway Score
451
cc Displacement
45
hp Power
30
km/L Fuel Eff.
Expressway Score
51/100FAIR
Score Breakdown
Overview
The Kawasaki Eliminator is Kawasaki's direct answer to the Honda Rebel 500, offering a modern sport-cruiser powered by the proven parallel-twin engine from the Ninja 400/500 platform. Available in two variants — the Eliminator 400 at ₱340,000 and the Eliminator 500 at ₱360,000 — it gives Filipino riders the flexibility to choose between entry-level expressway access and a more powerful highway cruiser. The low 735mm seat height and lightweight 176kg chassis make it one of the most beginner-friendly cruisers in the Philippines, while the aggressive, angular styling sets it apart from the traditional cruiser aesthetic of the Rebel. Key features include dual-channel ABS, an assist and slipper clutch, and Kawasaki's reputation for bulletproof parallel-twin reliability. For riders who want cruiser comfort with Ninja sportbike DNA underneath, the Eliminator is a compelling choice that has quickly gained traction in the PH market since its 2024 launch.
Expressway Driving Review
The Eliminator shares its engine platform with the Ninja 400/500, which means proven, tested expressway performance with the added benefit of a relaxed cruiser riding position. At 100 km/h on NLEX or SLEX, the parallel-twin engine spins at approximately 6,000-6,500 rpm with minimal vibration — smoother than single-cylinder alternatives and well within the engine's comfortable operating range. The cruiser riding position with its mid-set foot controls is more relaxed than the Ninja's clip-ons, reducing upper body fatigue on rides up to 2 hours. Fuel efficiency on the expressway is excellent at 28-30 km/L, giving approximately 365-390 km range on the 13-liter tank — enough for a comfortable Manila-to-Tarlac round trip. Overtaking power is adequate on the 500 variant but requires more planning on the 400 — a deliberate downshift to 4th gear is needed to pass trucks confidently on SLEX. Wind protection is nonexistent as a naked cruiser, so an aftermarket windscreen is recommended for regular NLEX-SCTEX-TPLEX corridor use. The low center of gravity provides excellent stability in crosswinds on elevated sections like Skyway Stage 3. Compared to the Honda Rebel 500, the Eliminator is lighter and more agile through toll plaza traffic, though the Rebel offers a more planted highway feel.
Safety & Electronics
Kawasaki Eliminator 2026 Price & Variants
| Variant | Price |
|---|---|
| Eliminator 400 | ₱340,000 |
| Eliminator 500 | ₱360,000 |
All expressway-legal motorcycles (400cc+) are classified as Class 1 for toll purposes — same rate as cars.
Specifications
- Displacement
- 451 cc
- Power
- 45 hp @ 10,000 rpm
- Torque
- 42 Nm @ 6,500 rpm
- Transmission
- 6-speed manual
- Fuel Tank
- 13L
- Seat Height
- 735 mm
- Kerb Weight
- 176 kg
- Top Speed
- 165 km/h
Fuel Efficiency
30
km/L Estimated
390
km Range (full tank)
Pros & Cons for Expressway Riding
Pros
- ✓Low 735mm seat height — one of the most accessible cruisers for shorter Filipino riders
- ✓Proven Ninja 400/500 parallel-twin engine platform with established reliability
- ✓Lightweight for a cruiser at just 176kg — nimble at toll plazas and parking
- ✓Excellent expressway fuel efficiency (28-30 km/L) with 365+ km range
- ✓Modern sport-cruiser styling that stands out from traditional cruiser designs
- ✓Two variants (400cc and 500cc) offering flexibility for budget and power needs
- ✓Dual-channel ABS standard with assist and slipper clutch
Cons
- ✗No traction control — a notable omission against the Honda Rebel 500 at similar pricing
- ✗No wind protection — aftermarket windscreen essential for regular expressway commuting
- ✗Relatively new model in PH — limited aftermarket parts and accessories compared to Rebel
- ✗No cruise control for long highway stretches
- ✗Forward-set foot pegs can cause knee fatigue on rides longer than 2 hours
- ✗Front brake lever feel is average and lacks initial bite at highway speeds
Other Kawasaki Models
Kawasaki Ninja 400
Sport · 399cc · Score: 42/100
Kawasaki Z900
Naked · 948cc · Score: 50/100
Kawasaki Z400
Naked · 399cc · Score: 47/100
Kawasaki Ninja 650
Sport · 649cc · Score: 46/100
Kawasaki Z650
Naked · 649cc · Score: 46/100
Kawasaki Versys 650
Adventure · 649cc · Score: 57/100