Kawasaki Eliminator And Versys Likely To Be Next Hybrid Models

Kawasaki is cementing its hybrid technology development with patent filings hinting at upcoming hybrid versions of its popular Eliminator cruiser and Versys adventure motorcycles. These new additions would follow the existing Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid and Kawasaki Z7 Hybrid models, which combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor for increased fuel efficiency and performance. While successful, a major sticking point with the current hybrids is the bulky battery pack stored beneath the rider's seat. This impacts the overall design which needs to be fixed for these bikes to become more appealing to the eye.

Kawasaki's solution for the Eliminator and Versys focuses on improved packaging by relocating the battery pack from its under-seat position to a new location above the engine's cylinder head. This seemingly simple change creates a chain of pros for both motorcycles. By moving the battery pack upwards, Kawasaki's engineers have freed up space in the under-seat area. This allows them to design a lower seat profile for the Kawasaki Eliminator hybrid, bringing riders closer to the ground and enhancing the bike's low-speed manoeuvrability. It's a crucial feature for a cruiser motorcycle, where a comfortable and confident riding position is paramount.

On the Kawasaki Versys hybrid, the relocated battery pack translates to increased ground clearance for the suspension. Adventure bikes are expected to have more suspension travel and this precisely allows for that and lets the suspension work well to keep the wheels to stay in contact with the ground for better handling. Additionally, the freed-up under-seat space on the Kawasaki Versys hybrid can be used to house other components, potentially improving the overall weight distribution of the motorcycle.

But where does the fuel go with the battery taking its place? Kawasaki's engineers have come up with unique fuel tank designs for each model to accommodate the relocated battery. On the Kawasaki Eliminator hybrid each tank will be positioned on either side of the frame. This will be outside the trellis-style steel frame's rails. This design choice will also lead to a lower centre of gravity. To ensure proper fuel capacity and easy refuelling, the left-hand tank will include a side-mounted filler neck and will be connected to the right-hand tank by a joining tube. This tube allows both tanks to fill and drain simultaneously, maintaining a user-friendly experience for riders.

The Kawasaki Versys hybrid will use a single, wider fuel tank that wraps over the top of the battery. This design keeps the fuel weight lower down on the motorcycle, improving handling and stability both on and off-road. To ensure sufficient fuel capacity for longer journeys, the tank will extend forward around the fork and towards the front of the bike. This placement integrates well with the existing bodywork commonly found on adventure bikes and shouldn't affect the overall aesthetics of the Kawasaki Versys hybrid.

Current Kawasaki Hybrids

Kawasaki's current hybrid offerings, the Ninja 7 Hybrid and Z7 Hybrid have a 451 cc parallel-twin engine paired with an electric motor, resulting in a combined output equivalent to a 700 cc motorcycle. This hybrid powertrain makes around 69 bhp and 60 Nm. These hybrid powertrains have a fuel efficiency advantage. This strategic use of existing hybrid technology across multiple platforms highlights Kawasaki's commitment to expanding its electrified motorcycle range. With the Hybrid Kawasaki Eliminator and Kawasaki Versys on the horizon, even more hybrid Kawasaki models could be waiting in the wings.