I got this bike 2 weeks ago, I'm thrilled with it. I was so cautious but this thing loves to get up and go. Solid review thanks for posting. A lot of what you say I agree with. The mirros threw me off but I adjusted them and a simple lean of my head I can see fine. I'm glad you love your new bike!
Just got my Eliminator 2 weeks ago and rdie it everyday. I've had a Shadow, and a 400 Suzuki Bandit in the past. This is the perfect marriage for me of those styles. Handles great, plenty of power. I had heard that the mirrors were terrible from many reviews, but have had no problems with them. Being a woman, i might just be the right size for them. This is a great bike!
Yeah. On power... 99% of us dont need more than 450 or 650. We dont even begin to approach the capabilities of the 1000+ cc bikes. Those big bikes are 100% about status and ego. And folks will spend twice as much to get those bikes.... i dont buy $200 bottles of wine or a $70 steak because i cant fully appreciate those. Why pay more for what i can't truly appreciate?
Yes, but you have to remember people love speed in a straight line. I think we should all experience it. But yes, all my bikes are now ranging from 125cc to 650cc. Better for my licence, insurance, registration, tyres, chains, fuel, heat, oil etc. status and ego is prevalent in most of us, I do feel inferior sometimes and have to remind myself who actually cares. I find smaller cc to be more engaging. More satisfying in general. When I had the big bikes I found that I’d rarely pick them to ride. I agree my little ninja 400 probably has the best road usable engine. But when riding with friends my go to is a 250 due to the above points and it probably stops me for getting into situations. To each their own. My first bike was a 250 VN eliminator (2003 I believe - brand new) hence why I’m here enjoying the great content.
@florme6494 my 2024 Eliminator is basically your Ninja's cruiser cousin. And I fucking love this bike. Its 451cc engine will hit 100 even with my 250 pounds on it. And it really is a sweet spot between cruiser comfort and sportbike nimbleness.
I just got one as well, and I'm digging it, very fast acceleration like you mentioned. I'm coming from a Vulcan 900 to this, and I'm blown away by the power. 6 gears is good too, the vulcan is a v-twin 5 speed, and I even swapped out the front pulley too and this is still definitely faster. I agree on the mirros just ordered some off amazon, gonna get 2" risers as well. I'm looking at some 6 or 8" mini apes too. I'm having to lean forward on the stock bars...not very comfortable. Talking to some mechanics to see if we can re-route the wires and not have to get longer cables. there are not a lot of accessories available yet, but they say they are coming. engine guard, sissy bar, cargo rack, etc.
Im right there with you on "I dont understand why people want to go that fast". you're absolutely right. honestly maybe Im in the minority but 50-60mph is my ideal comfort zone , I can go faster when I need to and on a straight away sure its fun for a bit, but theres really no good reason to ever be doing more than 75 on 4 wheels, let alone 2...
Kawasaki hit the power with this bike perfectly. The gearing matches the power all the way through. I am 71 and been away from riding for almost fifty years. Did a lot of reviews and couldnt be happier with this bike. I ran it up to 86mph one day before backing it down. It got up fast and didnt appear to be straining at all. I liked the way this sits better than Rebel 500. I wish they would put a rush on so e accessories.
Thank you so much for this video. I've been riding motorcycles since 1964 and just sold my LAST Harley. I bought the Harley new for $37,000 and it broke down four times within the first year of ownership. NEVER AGAIN. I've been looking at buying another bike and the only ones that interests me are Kawasaki's. I like the Vulcan 900 Custom, but I'm sick and tired of V-Twins. So then I was looking at a Vulcan S, but couldn't make up my mind. Then I started checking out the Kawasaki Eliminator and the more I looked at them the more I liked them. Then I watched your video and now I really want one. And you are right, a 450cc is all anybody needs unless they are traveling two up with a lot of luggage. The light weight Eliminator doesn't need any more power because it olny weights 388 lb. And with the fuel injected parallel twin, dual over head cams, four valves per cylinder and the six speed gear box it has plenty of guts to keep anyone happy. About the mirrors, I've never experienced any trouble with the view of my mirrors, but the ones on the Eliminator do seem awfully narrow and I can see where they might be difficult to see behind you. I have read however if you adjust the mirror slalks toward the front of the bike and then adjust the mirror heads back to where you can see behind you that this really helps. Thanks again for this video. Ride safe and enjoy every journey.
Just put a down payment on an eliminator and picking it up this Saturday!! Your video was a huge motivator going from a 2023 Rebel 300 to the eliminator!
I’m going from a Harley Limited (full dressed), in the U.S., to the Kawasaki Eliminator in the Philippines. I don’t need more, and with the lower seat height, awesome power/weight ratio (less than 400# @52 hp!) this is plenty! Just wish Kawasaki would hurry with releasing accessories!
I had an 87 ZL600 moved up to a 900 and then a ZL1000. Havnt owned anything smaller than a 1000 in years. Was worried about the 450 being a bit underpowered as im used to the bigger inline 4s. But im 55 now and starting to think the 450 would be fun going back and forth to work on. I still have the ZL1000, Vmax 1200 and a Suzuki Bandit 1200. Not in a rush to go out and buy so I'll wait a couple years to see if they throw something bigger in it ...If they dont I may just pick one up anywyas
My one big complaint was the mirrors. Couldn't see shit. Replaced the stock mirrors with KiWav Medusa mirrors. Not only can i see better, but they look better aesthetically than the stock round mirrors.
I put handlebar risers and mirror extenders on all my bikes except for the 750 Shadow I'm riding now. Centerstands and rear racks when possible because lockable storage and stable parking is less worry and more fun. The Eliminator looks better just like it is though.
In india the only color is matte black, sigh. V nice hearty ♥ review. You gotta update Mirrors, Engine guard, Crash guard, Pillion backrest with/without toprack, Windshield....
Dude is that Cave Run Lake? Looking at this bike for my wife (and me). We owned the Vulcan 650 once upon a time, but I dig this one more even though little less power its over 100lbs lighter so I don't think the power loss will be much of an issue.
It's yahoola reservoir in Georgia. It's the largest cc I've ever owned so naturally I'm blown away by the power. I did have a guy comment on here saying he had a Vulcan 900 and was thoroughly impressed with the power on the eliminator. I haven't riden 2 up so I'm not sure how the performance is, but for a single it's perfect. Very lightweight, flickable, tight on the turns, and plenty of power when I need it.
"Orangutan arms", you are so damn funny. I love this bike. Could you flip the mirrors to the other side and use them upside down? Okay, I'm coming clean and I ask for your patience. My Eliminator SE is orange and I'm an auto detailer and my best client's 2023 Stingray is orange. $148,000, I know. I understand about wild colors and you asked why, so I'll tell you. The SE model comes in only one color - orange. The pink and green thing or whatever, I can't imagine. I was cleaning the orange Vette before I got my bike. I might have thought that was weird at first, it certainly wouldn't be my first choice. But it is a trophy among my other cars, so it grew on me, or I got used to it, I'm not sure. It is also trimmed in black, just as the Eliminator is and as you know, most of the bike is black. This client's income also pays for my bike, but that is irrelevant, except without that account, there would be no Eliminator (he has 3 vehicles I maintain monthly). I did not go to buy this bike; I went for a Vulcan S, in gray no less if I could find one. This dealer didn't have one, but showed me this. I loved it when I sat on it and it being orange and black just like the Vette is wasn't shocking, although I did see it online once and wondered the same thing you are. I remember thinking, "What"? Our gripe is with Kawasaki, not with riders (or me). Color is completely the maker's doing; some people might not like gray. I've seen a purple Jeep Wrangler, but I passed out from shock and utter horror, and didn't have to look long. I have orange shorts, a shirt (gray ones too), the University of Florida Gators are blue and orange, so that color is not that unusual to this particular area because of that. I know, that doesn't give it a pass either. But I did want a bike that would be more visible than gray or black, for what visible reasons mean. You must admit, it is easier to see than yours. I will say, my car is gray and it is the second gray car I bought and would buy another gray one if I were to replace it. Gray was my first color choice. Availability is another reason; it was there, yet my purchase was not impulsive, nor did it occur the same day I saw it. I had time to think about this color that is so strange to you, and may have been once to me also. I even questioned myself whether I was just numb by the color because I was used to the Vette. I don't think I could give an objective answer. I did show my client a photo of it and he said it was the identical color of his car, and he is correct. I am also keenly aware of how shocking the color is to other people, although I have seen an unusual number of orange bikes in the stores lately including Honda. I also know it is natural to see things you might have an interest in, and in greater numbers; it's a common recognition thing. But the simple answer is only this. The 2024 SE model comes in only one color and that is orange. That is why I bought an orange bike. The logic is clear, no matter your taste. You want the SE or you don't. Color is not the issue because there is no choice. You are so right about this bike. There is nothing not to like about it and with Bluetooth, USB-C, nice front cowal and the neat stuff it has makes it a great machine. $7,300 plus dealer shit is worth it. A scooter would cost $4,000. It's perfect for me and I know you'll laugh when I ride by, but I laugh when I cash that check from cleaning the orange Vette that pays for it. It's not that I like orange, it's that I don't dislike it. What I don't understand is why guys want their bikes to be louder. That's more embarrassing driving around than an orange bike is. It doesn't make sense to make more noise than necessary.
I may rib on what are (to me) silly colored vehicles now and then, but in all seriousness, at the end of the day, the most important thing is that you're happy with your purchase. It's your hard earned money. You should spend it how you like. I'm sure there are crazy people out there who think my favorite colors are ugly. I understand certain styles you initially think are odd growing on you. I've had that happen with a few movies, TV shows, and video games. As for the noise. I'm in the "loud pipes save lives" camp. The key is to have em loud enough for drivers to hear you, but not obnoxiously loud. (My hawk dose this quite well) I've been driving down the highway in my truck and heard motorcycles pull up next to me before I saw them. Anything that helps make drivers aware of your presence is worth considering because it can save your life. Like the point you made about the orange color. Which is a good point. I'm just willing to risk a bit of safety for style points 😎 but like I said, as long as you're happy with your bike. That's what matters most.
No, you were right about the colors you described and I agree with you. For the most part, they are crazy. Some of them look like damn lollipops; too many colors and ugly ones too. Seen that Vulcan in lime green? Makes it look like an insect; one of those June beetles. Hideous and that's where I draw the line; I have my limits. I did say I had orange shorts, but I wear gray ones to the gym...lol. But, if you don't mind bug green, then go for it. That's an interesting point about being heard by other drivers. I'll have to think about that one, because cars don't make such sounds, so I'm not sure it matters, except you're harder to see. My main problem with it is that I live in a small community and the homes are close and I keep rather odd hours compared to others (I don't work, I play), so I couldn't leave or ride home at 3am with a thumper or a whiner. My neighbors are nosy also and I'd like to be discreet (I'm single, too late for that). Some bikes have hurt my ears going by, so those times are what come to mind when someone mentions more sound. I interpreted that as, "Look at me", rather than, "Watch out for me", so I digress. In the woods? Absolutely! Thanks for saying my bike is more visible than yours, especially at night, even if you don't like the color. That is a safety advantage in my opinion, just like sound is to you. Had it been green or yellow, no f**king way I would have bought it. Other than bananas and lemons, yellow should not exist. I would add, that when I was detailing a Tesla lately, the owner told me how he ran over his cat in the driveway, because the car makes no sound. I had met that cat previously and he did survive, recovered and is okay now. I only needed one story like that, I now refuse to move them and explain that to clients who have one, even if they don't have a pet. I make them move it 2 feet toward the end of their cleaning, so I can condition the bottom of tires I can't reach. That was the first thing I thought of when you explained the sound as you did. Makes me think I might put some sound device that can mimic a loud bike on demand. Maybe some player with speaker or something like that or a convertible muffler; I'll give that some thought, as I consider how to make my horn louder. I'm a detailer, not a bike mechanic (credit: Dr. McCoy). Like I said, orange was not my choice, it was Kawasaki's and I'm not defending it because I would have wanted a choice. If I chose orange when a gray one was sitting next to it, then it's all on me, but that's not how it was. The SE is the top of the line and it does have more features than the standard one; I assume you've seen one, or will at least look at one. You only notice these features as the rider and the gas tank is the only thing you see [partly] orange, as the inside of the cowl is black and it has an opposing black stripe on top. It gives it a sleeker look because it reduces the visual size of the tank in it's profile; check it out again from the side, and see what I mean. It's a sporty look if you see it from that perspective. Unlike your gray gas tank, if you look, the orange is only a stripe on top. The bottom half of the gas tank is black with red letters. It is a black bike with orange highlights (I know, that's not going to work on you, right?) Of course you see it's orange when you're not on it, but it's my baby, just like yours is to you and thanks for what you said about that. The orange Honda gas tanks are all orange, like yours is all gray. I guess I just got used to it after seeing it a few times. However, I'll never get used to purple Wranglers and June bug green Vulcans (no disrespect to Mr. Spock). The question is do you not dislike orange highlights (it's only partly orange) enough to get one? Or even better, do you hate orange enough not to buy one? The answer is no for you, but yes for me; I neither like it or dislike it. I didn't buy it for the color for sure, but I don't mind it; I bought the bike for the bike. It just happens to be that highlighted with that color. Most people do not drive the vehicle color of their choice; they settle for it, but I did have that choice, but not if I wanted the SE. I love it because I overlook anything I might not. It really is a black bike with orange accents. See how easy that was to make that orange, well, not so orange? I know - fail. Maybe they'll come out with a different color; surely they must at some point (too late for me). Maybe they did it to make them exclusive or as it turns out - somewhat shocking, although it's "normal" to me now. Maybe they did it to make it stand out so people would see it (and it does) or to re-introduce the model. I mean, who's going to buy an orange bike, right? Oh, the TV and movies growing on you comparison, you're right. It took me 10 years after the last Harry Potter movie to even watch the first one. I just knew it was silly, juvenile, stupid idea and a waste of time. For 2 decades, I did not realize what a fantastic time I had missed and what a great time I had binging on those films - twice. Not only that, an entire phenomena went over my head. I missed years of excitement everyone else knew, but I didn't; maybe I'm just stubborn and I don't easily conform; I'm independent. Look where that got me. Who didn't know and love Harry Potter? A dumb-ass like me, but not now. But, I'm so fortunate I did not have to wait for the next movie to come out. It would have driven me [more] crazy. I dogged those movies, those who watched them and Radcliff too, before I found out I was wrong and just downright stupid myself for having such a closed mind to the superficial surface of what I thought I saw. I'm so ashamed of how wrong I was, that this is the first time I've admitted to it. As it turned out, they were brilliant!@@Matthewsmith-2024
Thanks for sharing. Hoping to see the accessories market develop for this bike. I've already sat on one and it definitely can take a taller rider .. but forward controls would really help. With a batwing fairing, heated grips, and luggage, that bike could be my goto distance cruiser for the Sturgis ride and other long hauls.
@@weylins My legs are kind of long, so for pretty much any cruiser I would prefer forward controls. I did sit on an Eliminator 450 recently to check that. The bike it's being compared to is an 07 HD Dyna Superglide - a friend has one that I borrow sometimes. Anyway I am just waiting for the aftermarket to develop. In the meantime still taking a gen1 Versys 650 everywhere.
@suzyamerica4679 yeah. I'm hoping the aftermarket catches up soon. There are some things I'd like to swap out. But it's the first year so I knew that would be an issue when I bought one.
@@weylins Glad it's working for your :) I've heard nothing but good about that model. I would kit it out with mermite can panniers or some other aero luggage, and hopefully it could do 60mpg on the highway.
@suzyamerica4679 yeah, some storage is high on my list of wants. Before this I had a 2014 Honda Forza and that things had so much storage... fit two helmets under the seat, two glove boxes (one with a power socket). My sister got me a Kriega sling bag for my daily rides for now.
@@Matthewsmith-2024 Gon' look forward to it. Btw, hows the bike its been 3 months since the video. Make a new vid bout your recent review and ofc with topspeed. cheers
6'3" 220lbs There is a noticeable bend in my knees, but it's more like sitting in a chair with me feet raised just a bit. With the rebel my knees were in my chest 😅
I'm not sure. I've seen some articles that say 100mph and others that say 116mph The fastest I've gone is 96mph when I was following someone on a sport bike. That was 6th gear maybe 1/3 turn on the throttle. Definitely felt like it had a good bit more to go.
Enough about the color already. It's subjective. If we were all the same then there would be only one bike, one car, one color, one house, one....get the point? I personally think the gray is ugly and boring as shit, my opinion but I don't want to have a law to prevent people from having the gray if they want.
Matthew, the mirrors on the Eliminator are lollipops(boo-hiss) change them-asap- for safety!🎉 The exhaust pipe, is a baloney tube, looks ugly & sounds like an "angry sewing machine"! Doug🏍️!
I got this bike 2 weeks ago, I'm thrilled with it. I was so cautious but this thing loves to get up and go.
Solid review thanks for posting. A lot of what you say I agree with. The mirros threw me off but I adjusted them and a simple lean of my head I can see fine. I'm glad you love your new bike!
Just got my Eliminator 2 weeks ago and rdie it everyday. I've had a Shadow, and a 400 Suzuki Bandit in the past. This is the perfect marriage for me of those styles. Handles great, plenty of power. I had heard that the mirrors were terrible from many reviews, but have had no problems with them. Being a woman, i might just be the right size for them. This is a great bike!
Yeah. On power... 99% of us dont need more than 450 or 650. We dont even begin to approach the capabilities of the 1000+ cc bikes. Those big bikes are 100% about status and ego. And folks will spend twice as much to get those bikes.... i dont buy $200 bottles of wine or a $70 steak because i cant fully appreciate those. Why pay more for what i can't truly appreciate?
Yes, but you have to remember people love speed in a straight line. I think we should all experience it. But yes, all my bikes are now ranging from 125cc to 650cc. Better for my licence, insurance, registration, tyres, chains, fuel, heat, oil etc. status and ego is prevalent in most of us, I do feel inferior sometimes and have to remind myself who actually cares. I find smaller cc to be more engaging. More satisfying in general. When I had the big bikes I found that I’d rarely pick them to ride. I agree my little ninja 400 probably has the best road usable engine. But when riding with friends my go to is a 250 due to the above points and it probably stops me for getting into situations. To each their own. My first bike was a 250 VN eliminator (2003 I believe - brand new) hence why I’m here enjoying the great content.
@florme6494 my 2024 Eliminator is basically your Ninja's cruiser cousin. And I fucking love this bike. Its 451cc engine will hit 100 even with my 250 pounds on it. And it really is a sweet spot between cruiser comfort and sportbike nimbleness.
Straight line acceleration is addictive, that's why I switched to a smaller bike. Couldn't control myself and don't want to lose my license
@florme6494 No alot of us don't have egos. Just a bad minority. If you feel inferior, there's something wrong with you
I just got one as well, and I'm digging it, very fast acceleration like you mentioned. I'm coming from a Vulcan 900 to this, and I'm blown away by the power. 6 gears is good too, the vulcan is a v-twin 5 speed, and I even swapped out the front pulley too and this is still definitely faster. I agree on the mirros just ordered some off amazon, gonna get 2" risers as well. I'm looking at some 6 or 8" mini apes too. I'm having to lean forward on the stock bars...not very comfortable. Talking to some mechanics to see if we can re-route the wires and not have to get longer cables. there are not a lot of accessories available yet, but they say they are coming. engine guard, sissy bar, cargo rack, etc.
I just got mine two days ago. Love it. I really like the color Orange. 😄
Im right there with you on "I dont understand why people want to go that fast". you're absolutely right. honestly maybe Im in the minority but 50-60mph is my ideal comfort zone , I can go faster when I need to and on a straight away sure its fun for a bit, but theres really no good reason to ever be doing more than 75 on 4 wheels, let alone 2...
Kawasaki hit the power with this bike perfectly. The gearing matches the power all the way through. I am 71 and been away from riding for almost fifty years. Did a lot of reviews and couldnt be happier with this bike. I ran it up to 86mph one day before backing it down. It got up fast and didnt appear to be straining at all. I liked the way this sits better than Rebel 500. I wish they would put a rush on so e accessories.
You’re absolutely right about the mirrors, that was the first thing I changed out on mine.
Thank you so much for this video. I've been riding motorcycles since 1964 and just sold my LAST Harley. I bought the Harley new for $37,000 and it broke down four times within the first year of ownership. NEVER AGAIN.
I've been looking at buying another bike and the only ones that interests me are Kawasaki's. I like the Vulcan 900 Custom, but I'm sick and tired of V-Twins. So then I was looking at a Vulcan S, but couldn't make up my mind.
Then I started checking out the Kawasaki Eliminator and the more I looked at them the more I liked them. Then I watched your video and now I really want one.
And you are right, a 450cc is all anybody needs unless they are traveling two up with a lot of luggage. The light weight Eliminator doesn't need any more power because it olny weights 388 lb. And with the fuel injected parallel twin, dual over head cams, four valves per cylinder and the six speed gear box it has plenty of guts to keep anyone happy.
About the mirrors, I've never experienced any trouble with the view of my mirrors, but the ones on the Eliminator do seem awfully narrow and I can see where they might be difficult to see behind you. I have read however if you adjust the mirror slalks toward the front of the bike and then adjust the mirror heads back to where you can see behind you that this really helps.
Thanks again for this video. Ride safe and enjoy every journey.
Just put a down payment on an eliminator and picking it up this Saturday!! Your video was a huge motivator going from a 2023 Rebel 300 to the eliminator!
Awesome, man! Glad I could help. Stay safe out there and have fun 🤘
I’m going from a Harley Limited (full dressed), in the U.S., to the Kawasaki Eliminator in the Philippines. I don’t need more, and with the lower seat height, awesome power/weight ratio (less than 400# @52 hp!) this is plenty!
Just wish Kawasaki would hurry with releasing accessories!
I had an 87 ZL600 moved up to a 900 and then a ZL1000. Havnt owned anything smaller than a 1000 in years. Was worried about the 450 being a bit underpowered as im used to the bigger inline 4s. But im 55 now and starting to think the 450 would be fun going back and forth to work on. I still have the ZL1000, Vmax 1200 and a Suzuki Bandit 1200. Not in a rush to go out and buy so I'll wait a couple years to see if they throw something bigger in it ...If they dont I may just pick one up anywyas
My one big complaint was the mirrors. Couldn't see shit. Replaced the stock mirrors with KiWav Medusa mirrors. Not only can i see better, but they look better aesthetically than the stock round mirrors.
I put handlebar risers and mirror extenders on all my bikes except for the 750 Shadow I'm riding now. Centerstands and rear racks when possible because lockable storage and stable parking is less worry and more fun. The Eliminator looks better just like it is though.
In india the only color is matte black, sigh. V nice hearty ♥ review. You gotta update
Mirrors,
Engine guard,
Crash guard,
Pillion backrest with/without toprack,
Windshield....
Great review. Mirrors? What about bobber style under the handlebars? Thanks
Brand new to this shii, originally wanted something like the FTR, but man found out about this thing at the perfect time
Dude is that Cave Run Lake? Looking at this bike for my wife (and me). We owned the Vulcan 650 once upon a time, but I dig this one more even though little less power its over 100lbs lighter so I don't think the power loss will be much of an issue.
It's yahoola reservoir in Georgia. It's the largest cc I've ever owned so naturally I'm blown away by the power. I did have a guy comment on here saying he had a Vulcan 900 and was thoroughly impressed with the power on the eliminator. I haven't riden 2 up so I'm not sure how the performance is, but for a single it's perfect. Very lightweight, flickable, tight on the turns, and plenty of power when I need it.
If it was a W400/ 450 it would have been a bigger hit…. But this is still good too…
"Orangutan arms", you are so damn funny. I love this bike. Could you flip the mirrors to the other side and use them upside down? Okay, I'm coming clean and I ask for your patience. My Eliminator SE is orange and I'm an auto detailer and my best client's 2023 Stingray is orange. $148,000, I know. I understand about wild colors and you asked why, so I'll tell you.
The SE model comes in only one color - orange. The pink and green thing or whatever, I can't imagine. I was cleaning the orange Vette before I got my bike. I might have thought that was weird at first, it certainly wouldn't be my first choice. But it is a trophy among my other cars, so it grew on me, or I got used to it, I'm not sure. It is also trimmed in black, just as the Eliminator is and as you know, most of the bike is black. This client's income also pays for my bike, but that is irrelevant, except without that account, there would be no Eliminator (he has 3 vehicles I maintain monthly).
I did not go to buy this bike; I went for a Vulcan S, in gray no less if I could find one. This dealer didn't have one, but showed me this. I loved it when I sat on it and it being orange and black just like the Vette is wasn't shocking, although I did see it online once and wondered the same thing you are. I remember thinking, "What"? Our gripe is with Kawasaki, not with riders (or me). Color is completely the maker's doing; some people might not like gray. I've seen a purple Jeep Wrangler, but I passed out from shock and utter horror, and didn't have to look long.
I have orange shorts, a shirt (gray ones too), the University of Florida Gators are blue and orange, so that color is not that unusual to this particular area because of that. I know, that doesn't give it a pass either. But I did want a bike that would be more visible than gray or black, for what visible reasons mean. You must admit, it is easier to see than yours. I will say, my car is gray and it is the second gray car I bought and would buy another gray one if I were to replace it. Gray was my first color choice.
Availability is another reason; it was there, yet my purchase was not impulsive, nor did it occur the same day I saw it. I had time to think about this color that is so strange to you, and may have been once to me also. I even questioned myself whether I was just numb by the color because I was used to the Vette. I don't think I could give an objective answer. I did show my client a photo of it and he said it was the identical color of his car, and he is correct. I am also keenly aware of how shocking the color is to other people, although I have seen an unusual number of orange bikes in the stores lately including Honda. I also know it is natural to see things you might have an interest in, and in greater numbers; it's a common recognition thing.
But the simple answer is only this. The 2024 SE model comes in only one color and that is orange. That is why I bought an orange bike. The logic is clear, no matter your taste. You want the SE or you don't. Color is not the issue because there is no choice. You are so right about this bike. There is nothing not to like about it and with Bluetooth, USB-C, nice front cowal and the neat stuff it has makes it a great machine. $7,300 plus dealer shit is worth it. A scooter would cost $4,000.
It's perfect for me and I know you'll laugh when I ride by, but I laugh when I cash that check from cleaning the orange Vette that pays for it. It's not that I like orange, it's that I don't dislike it. What I don't understand is why guys want their bikes to be louder. That's more embarrassing driving around than an orange bike is. It doesn't make sense to make more noise than necessary.
I may rib on what are (to me) silly colored vehicles now and then, but in all seriousness, at the end of the day, the most important thing is that you're happy with your purchase. It's your hard earned money. You should spend it how you like. I'm sure there are crazy people out there who think my favorite colors are ugly. I understand certain styles you initially think are odd growing on you. I've had that happen with a few movies, TV shows, and video games. As for the noise. I'm in the "loud pipes save lives" camp. The key is to have em loud enough for drivers to hear you, but not obnoxiously loud. (My hawk dose this quite well) I've been driving down the highway in my truck and heard motorcycles pull up next to me before I saw them. Anything that helps make drivers aware of your presence is worth considering because it can save your life. Like the point you made about the orange color. Which is a good point. I'm just willing to risk a bit of safety for style points 😎 but like I said, as long as you're happy with your bike. That's what matters most.
No, you were right about the colors you described and I agree with you. For the most part, they are crazy. Some of them look like damn lollipops; too many colors and ugly ones too. Seen that Vulcan in lime green? Makes it look like an insect; one of those June beetles. Hideous and that's where I draw the line; I have my limits. I did say I had orange shorts, but I wear gray ones to the gym...lol. But, if you don't mind bug green, then go for it.
That's an interesting point about being heard by other drivers. I'll have to think about that one, because cars don't make such sounds, so I'm not sure it matters, except you're harder to see. My main problem with it is that I live in a small community and the homes are close and I keep rather odd hours compared to others (I don't work, I play), so I couldn't leave or ride home at 3am with a thumper or a whiner. My neighbors are nosy also and I'd like to be discreet (I'm single, too late for that).
Some bikes have hurt my ears going by, so those times are what come to mind when someone mentions more sound. I interpreted that as, "Look at me", rather than, "Watch out for me", so I digress. In the woods? Absolutely! Thanks for saying my bike is more visible than yours, especially at night, even if you don't like the color. That is a safety advantage in my opinion, just like sound is to you. Had it been green or yellow, no f**king way I would have bought it. Other than bananas and lemons, yellow should not exist.
I would add, that when I was detailing a Tesla lately, the owner told me how he ran over his cat in the driveway, because the car makes no sound. I had met that cat previously and he did survive, recovered and is okay now. I only needed one story like that, I now refuse to move them and explain that to clients who have one, even if they don't have a pet. I make them move it 2 feet toward the end of their cleaning, so I can condition the bottom of tires I can't reach. That was the first thing I thought of when you explained the sound as you did. Makes me think I might put some sound device that can mimic a loud bike on demand. Maybe some player with speaker or something like that or a convertible muffler; I'll give that some thought, as I consider how to make my horn louder. I'm a detailer, not a bike mechanic (credit: Dr. McCoy).
Like I said, orange was not my choice, it was Kawasaki's and I'm not defending it because I would have wanted a choice. If I chose orange when a gray one was sitting next to it, then it's all on me, but that's not how it was. The SE is the top of the line and it does have more features than the standard one; I assume you've seen one, or will at least look at one. You only notice these features as the rider and the gas tank is the only thing you see [partly] orange, as the inside of the cowl is black and it has an opposing black stripe on top. It gives it a sleeker look because it reduces the visual size of the tank in it's profile; check it out again from the side, and see what I mean. It's a sporty look if you see it from that perspective.
Unlike your gray gas tank, if you look, the orange is only a stripe on top. The bottom half of the gas tank is black with red letters. It is a black bike with orange highlights (I know, that's not going to work on you, right?) Of course you see it's orange when you're not on it, but it's my baby, just like yours is to you and thanks for what you said about that. The orange Honda gas tanks are all orange, like yours is all gray. I guess I just got used to it after seeing it a few times. However, I'll never get used to purple Wranglers and June bug green Vulcans (no disrespect to Mr. Spock).
The question is do you not dislike orange highlights (it's only partly orange) enough to get one? Or even better, do you hate orange enough not to buy one? The answer is no for you, but yes for me; I neither like it or dislike it. I didn't buy it for the color for sure, but I don't mind it; I bought the bike for the bike. It just happens to be that highlighted with that color.
Most people do not drive the vehicle color of their choice; they settle for it, but I did have that choice, but not if I wanted the SE. I love it because I overlook anything I might not. It really is a black bike with orange accents. See how easy that was to make that orange, well, not so orange? I know - fail.
Maybe they'll come out with a different color; surely they must at some point (too late for me). Maybe they did it to make them exclusive or as it turns out - somewhat shocking, although it's "normal" to me now. Maybe they did it to make it stand out so people would see it (and it does) or to re-introduce the model. I mean, who's going to buy an orange bike, right?
Oh, the TV and movies growing on you comparison, you're right. It took me 10 years after the last Harry Potter movie to even watch the first one. I just knew it was silly, juvenile, stupid idea and a waste of time. For 2 decades, I did not realize what a fantastic time I had missed and what a great time I had binging on those films - twice. Not only that, an entire phenomena went over my head. I missed years of excitement everyone else knew, but I didn't; maybe I'm just stubborn and I don't easily conform; I'm independent. Look where that got me. Who didn't know and love Harry Potter? A dumb-ass like me, but not now.
But, I'm so fortunate I did not have to wait for the next movie to come out. It would have driven me [more] crazy. I dogged those movies, those who watched them and Radcliff too, before I found out I was wrong and just downright stupid myself for having such a closed mind to the superficial surface of what I thought I saw. I'm so ashamed of how wrong I was, that this is the first time I've admitted to it. As it turned out, they were brilliant!@@Matthewsmith-2024
Enjoyed the ride around Dahlonega 😂
Nice review...bar end mirrors will make your bike cooler
Very good information thank you
The orange and black is the nicest color on the eliminator
Says you, 🤡
Im havent been able to buy yet because i cant make up my mind wether to get a rebel 500, eliminator or a kymco xciting☹️
Thanks for sharing. Hoping to see the accessories market develop for this bike. I've already sat on one and it definitely can take a taller rider .. but forward controls would really help. With a batwing fairing, heated grips, and luggage, that bike could be my goto distance cruiser for the Sturgis ride and other long hauls.
I'm 6'1" and stock my Eliminator is comfortable as hell
@@weylins My legs are kind of long, so for pretty much any cruiser I would prefer forward controls. I did sit on an Eliminator 450 recently to check that. The bike it's being compared to is an 07 HD Dyna Superglide - a friend has one that I borrow sometimes. Anyway I am just waiting for the aftermarket to develop. In the meantime still taking a gen1 Versys 650 everywhere.
@suzyamerica4679 yeah. I'm hoping the aftermarket catches up soon. There are some things I'd like to swap out. But it's the first year so I knew that would be an issue when I bought one.
@@weylins Glad it's working for your :) I've heard nothing but good about that model. I would kit it out with mermite can panniers or some other aero luggage, and hopefully it could do 60mpg on the highway.
@suzyamerica4679 yeah, some storage is high on my list of wants. Before this I had a 2014 Honda Forza and that things had so much storage... fit two helmets under the seat, two glove boxes (one with a power socket). My sister got me a Kriega sling bag for my daily rides for now.
Grate choice..what can you tell about Mpg?
I'd say around 55, maybe 60mpg, depending on how I'm riding.
PLS MAKE a topspeed video of the eliminator. I wanna know how fast it goes.
I may when the weather improves. Still pretty cold where I live. The fastest I've gone so far is 96mph
@@Matthewsmith-2024 Gon' look forward to it. Btw, hows the bike its been 3 months since the video. Make a new vid bout your recent review and ofc with topspeed. cheers
What's your height and weight??
6'3" 220lbs There is a noticeable bend in my knees, but it's more like sitting in a chair with me feet raised just a bit. With the rebel my knees were in my chest 😅
@Matthewsmith-2023 I'm 6'5" 280...thank you so much for replying I was thinking of this one and the vulcan s or vulcan classic
what is the top speed?
I'm not sure. I've seen some articles that say 100mph and others that say 116mph
The fastest I've gone is 96mph when I was following someone on a sport bike. That was 6th gear maybe 1/3 turn on the throttle. Definitely felt like it had a good bit more to go.
Enough about the color already. It's subjective. If we were all the same then there would be only one bike, one car, one color, one house, one....get the point? I personally think the gray is ugly and boring as shit, my opinion but I don't want to have a law to prevent people from having the gray if they want.
Very strange that theres no top speed video on this bike,,,,, is everyone afraid that its so good that the cost if the bike will rise?😮
Matthew, the mirrors on the Eliminator are lollipops(boo-hiss) change them-asap- for safety!🎉 The exhaust pipe, is a baloney tube, looks ugly & sounds like an "angry sewing machine"! Doug🏍️!