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Kawasaki Latest Type-Approval Documents Hints At The Arrival Of Eliminator 450

Kawasaki has recently been making waves in the motorcycle world with its revived Eliminator nameplate. In March 2023, the Japanese company announced the Eliminator 400 for the Japanese market, and it was presented at the 2023 Bangkok Motor Show.

latest type-approval documents confirms the arrival of an all-new Eliminator 450.
It is likely that there will be several variants for the Eliminator 450.

Now, new information has surfaced suggesting that Kawasaki may release a larger-capacity Eliminator 450 in North America in 2024.

According to reports by Motorcycle.com, latest California Air Resources Board (CARB) filings show that Kawasaki has filed model codes EL450A, EL450B, EL450C, and EL450D.

Considering that the Eliminator 400 and Eliminator 400 SE are designated as EL400A and EL400B respectively, it is likely that the EL450A and EL450B will be the base model Eliminator 450 and Eliminator 450 SE. Meanwhile, the EL450C and EL450D may denote ABS-equipped trims.

The CARB filings also confirm that the Eliminator 450 will benefit from a 451cc engine. While it is unclear how Kawasaki’s engineers achieved the extra volume, it is possible that they used the firm’s tried-and-true 398cc parallel twin as a basis for the new mill.

Compared to Honda’s Rebel 500, which is the main competitor to a potential Eliminator 450, Kawasaki’s parallel twin already has a power advantage.

However, the Rebel 500’s 471cc engine outperforms the Eliminator’s 398cc lump with 43Nm of torque @ 6,000 rpm. Kawasaki may address this shortfall with the new 451cc powerplant, but the existence of the 2024 Eliminator 450 cannot be confirmed without an official announcement from the company.

Caofen Brings The F80 Electric Motorcycle To The UK

Caofen, a new emerging electric brand, has announced its entry into the UK market with the launch of two electric motorbikes – the F80 Adventure and F80 Off-Road.

The road-ready F80 Adventure will retail at GBP5,995 (RM33k), while the F80 Off-Road will cost GBP5,495 (RM30.3k).
Caofen is a newly developed electric motorcycle company from China owned by Chongqing Huanghe Motorcycle Company.

The Caofen F80 bikes are equipped with patented battery technology, a single-piece frame, and an enhanced motor. They are designed to improve performance and longevity, enabling riders to enjoy their ride, go faster, and cover more distance on a single charge.

The Caofen F80 bikes have been developed to compete with other electric motorbikes already available in the UK market. The launch of these bikes is expected to bring more competition to the market and increase the availability of affordable electric motorbikes.

The company has launched its newly designed website where interested buyers can find more information about the specifications of the F80 Adventure and F80 Off-Road. The website also provides information about other upcoming models from Caofen.

The launch of the Caofen F80 bikes is a significant development in the electric motorbike market in the UK. With more consumers looking to reduce their carbon footprint, the demand for electric bikes is expected to rise in the coming years. The Caofen F80 bikes offer an affordable option for those looking to transition to electric motorbikes.

SHOEI Honours MM93 King Of COTA Status With A Limited Edition Helmet

Marc Marquez, a six-time MotoGP champion, has earned the title of “King of COTA” due to his unbeatable form on U.S. soil.

Marc Marquez wins six time in a row at the Circuit of the Americas between 2013 and 2018 earning him the “King of COTA” status.
The limited-edition helmet is to honour Marquez’s amazing feat at COTA.

Despite suffering a broken humerus and undergoing several surgeries in 2020, Marquez won at the Circuit of the Americas again in 2021.

In honor of his winning record, Shoei has created a limited-edition Z8 helmet with an American Spirit graphic.

The special livery, worn by Marquez during the 2022 Grand Prix of the Americas, features a red, white, and blue color combination, stars and stripes integrated into the design, and Marquez’s signature number 93 emblazoned on both sides of the helmet.

The helmet is made with Shoei’s eminent all-arounder, the Z-8 (RF-1400), which boasts extra comfort and an affordable mid-range price tag, making it a great option for road riding.

The Z-8 was updated recently with a newly improved ventilation system, a new visor-locking mechanism, and noise-diffusing, aerodynamics-enhancing Vortex Generators, making it the perfect all-rounder helmet. That said, the GP-accurate American Spirit graphic lends itself perfectly to the Z-8 model.

Shoei will release the limited-edition helmet in July 2023 with limited orders open through August 2023. The race replica will be available in sizes S (55cm), M (57cm), L (59cm), XL (61cm), and XXL (63cm) at a price of JPY71,500 (RM2.3k).

Kawasaki Developing Magnetic Brakes To Reduce The Risk Of Low-Sides

Kawasaki has recently patented a new type of electronic brake that could help to reduce the risk of low-side crashes on bikes.

Kawasaki has patented a new type of electronic brake that applies a load to the bike’s chain wheel during deceleration to reduce the risk of low-side crashes.
The system aims to stabilize the bike during critical moments, particularly when the front brake is released.

According to reports by Visordown, the technology is designed to work on the chain wheel of the bike and uses a type of magnetic clutch that can be electronically actuated to apply a load to the chain during deceleration.

When a bike is braking into a corner, it slows down and compresses the suspension, pushing the front tire into the Tarmac, and increasing the amount of grip there is at the front end of the machine.

However, when the front brake is released, the springs in the forks try to return to a normal position, reducing the pressure on the front tire and reducing the amount of grip it has. This can lead to a low-side crash if the front end loses grip.

The Kawasaki system aims to solve this problem by applying a load to the bike’s chain while decelerating, even after the front brake has been released. This means that the bike will still be applying some force on the suspension, reducing the rebound action of the forks that can cause a low-side.

While the system may seem like a natural fit for a sports bike ridden on a track, Kawasaki is reportedly considering using the technology on its road-going sports touring machines too. With radar-assisted cruise control becoming increasingly popular on top-spec models, manufacturers are always looking for new ways to control a bike’s speed without relying solely on the braking system, which can be unsettling for both the rider and the bike.

While this new technology is still in its early stages, it could represent a significant step forward in motorcycle safety. As always, riders should continue to prioritize safe riding practices and seek out training and education to improve their skills on the road.

(source: Visordown)

Kijima Unveils New Utility-Oriented Accessories For Honda CT125 Hunter Cub

Japanese parts and accessories supplier Kijima has expanded its product range with a new line of components for the popular Honda CT125 Hunter Cub.

Kijima has customized three distinct Hunter Cubs, showcasing the versatility of its new line of utility-oriented parts.
Kijima’s new line of utility-oriented components adds more attitude to the already versatile Honda CT125 Hunter Cub.

The first custom model is aimed at maximalists and weekend glampers. With a large top box and tactical side bag, riders can pack provisions for all their outdoor adventures. The modified Hunter Cub also comes with extra protection in the form of crash guards, a headlight grille, and handguards. A front rack enhances the carrying capacity, allowing riders to strap everything from sleeping pads to six packs to the front end. Auxiliary lighting and larger heel-toe shifter add to the adventure-ready features.

The second custom model is geared towards off-road enthusiasts. It carries over many of the same features as the first model, but with a high-mounted fender and a large rear carrier rack for increased storage. The rugged design is perfect for diehard off-roaders, and a bar-mounted bag adds to the carrying capacity.

The third model takes a more restrained approach, with a classic Honda red color scheme and fewer accessories. The crash protection, headlight grate, and taillight grille all come from Kijima, as does the custom front, rear, and side racks. The bags and top box have been removed to minimize the footprint of the Hunter Cub, making it ideal for urban environments. Kijima also offers the components in chrome for a more polished look.

Kijima’s new line of utility-oriented components adds more attitude to the already versatile Honda CT125 Hunter Cub. With options for maximalists, off-road enthusiasts, and urban riders, Kijima’s accessories are a must-have for anyone looking to customize their Hunter Cub.

2023 Kymco AK Premium Rolls Out In Europe – 51HP, 52Nm

Taiwanese scooter manufacturer Kymco has released a new scooter model, the AK Premium, designed to compete in the luxury maxi-scooter market.

the AK Premium the is the flagship version of the standard AK550 scooter.
the AK Premium features customisable user settings and cruise control.

Powering the Kymco AK Premium is a 550cc twin-cylinder engine that delivers 51hp @ 7,500rpm and 52Nm @ 6,000rpm, and it features a continuously variable gearbox and throttle-by-wire technology for improved engine control and acceleration.

The scooter also has customisable riding modes and additional features like traction control and cruise control for a smooth and safe ride over long distances. The AK Premium also equipped with AIBS Cornering Technology which includes cornering ABS.

The AK Premium has a striking futuristic design with aggressive LEDs, and it weighs 238 kilograms, making it a heavyweight challenger in its class.

Other notable features includes; Brembo callipers, 14.5L fuel tank, 15-inch wheels front and rear shod with 120/70 and 160/60 tyres, upside-down fork and a 270mm front and 260mm rear disc.

The AK Premium will retail for EUR10,999 (RM53k) making it a more affordable option than the Yamaha TMAX. Kymco expects the AK Premium to attract riders looking for a powerful, comfortable, and stylish scooter that can handle both city and long-distance travel.