Kawasaki Ninja e-1 Electric: No Laughing Matter!
This page is translated from the original post "Kawasaki Ninja e-1 électrique : défense de rire !" in French.
- 20/09/2023 17:39
The Japanese manufacturer known for its unrestrained productions launches its first electric sports bike with a ridiculous technical sheet.
In the collective unconscious, Kawasaki Ninja is a green firecracker producing 130 hp and reaching 340 km/h. An admittedly extreme creation, but terribly endearing because full of life.
In 2024, Kawasaki has decided to completely hijack the Ninja name by launching a range of two electric models with entirely laughable performance. Judge for yourself with the Kawasaki Ninja e-1 (fairing) and Z e-1 (no fairing) :
- Electric motor of 5 kW, which is 6.8 hp (yes, you read that right)
- Peak power of 9 kW, which is 12 hp (yes, you read that right)
- Torque of 40.5 Nm (yes, you read that right)
- Maximum speed of 99 km/h (yes, you read that right)
- Range of 72 km (yes, you read that right)
- Weight of 140 kg
- Two removable batteries of 11.5 kg each with a total capacity of 2.95 kWh, almost as much as an electric bike…
Unlike Harley-Davidson, which chose to launch a parallel line of 100% electric Livewire models but with astonishing technical specs to match the Harley image, Kawasaki preferred to distort its iconic model, the Ninja. A strategic mistake that could cost it dearly, as both e-1 models look like two unlicensed toys. The width of the tires immediately indicates the velocity tire to be contained.
For info, the faux-fuel tank conceals a small 5-liter trunk. But if practicality is what you’re after, why not invest in a BMW CE04 scooter that tears up the asphalt?
No, honestly, Kawasaki’s marketing managers deserve a red card. Coming so late to the electric motorcycle market with such a childish product and a name that feels like a mockery is just outrageous. Sorry to say it.
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