Kawasaki have taken the leap first, releasing two electric motorcycles to market, the Ninja e-1 and the Z e-1. Both are available now, and make a lot of sense, so let's take a look...
Kawasaki have surprised us with the release of the first Japanese EV motorcycles from the Big Four into the market, a huge achievement by Team Green. The Z e-1 and Ninja e-1 are urban commuter bikes that are the on par to a 125cc motorcycle… Press: KMA
Kawasaki are the first of the Big Four to release an EV motorcycle, after Honda released their EM1 e scooter.
Kawasaki have a long history of producing motorcycles designed to be fun to ride and fun to control, and they say their new EV models offer a light-hearted solution to urban commuting. Classified as 125cc-class bikes, the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 give you a chance to experience the joy that Kawasaki motorcycles deliver and transform your commute from a grind into something to look forward to.
Check out our Electric section here for news and reviews on EV motorcycles and bikes…
The Ninja e-1 is an EV urban commuter but the frame is designed from the Ninja 400, so should be fun.
Max 9.0 kW Motor – Rated at 5.0 kW (9.0 kW max), the clean and quiet motor produces quick response and strong low-end power, facilitating control and contributing to quick acceleration from a stop.
Zero Emissions – Powered by an electric motor, the Ninja and Z e-1 create no emissions when being operated.
Both bikes are lightweight and have duel batteries. Home charging from flat to fully charged is around 7 hours…
ROAD/ECO Modes – In addition to normal operation (ROAD), riders may also choose speed-limited operation (ECO). Top speed in ROAD Mode is 88 km/h (85 km/h for Z e-1), while top speed in ECO Mode is limited to 64 km/h (62 km/h for Z e-1).
Dual Removable Batteries – Dual lithium-ion batteries weigh 11.5kg each. Offboard charging can be done by connecting the bike to a dedicated charger powered by a household outlet. Alternatively, the batteries can be removed and charged. Charging time per battery is approximately 3.7 hours for a full charge, 1.6 hours for a partial (20 per cent to 85 pr cent) charge.
Kawasaki have not revealed a claimed range yet for the duo…
e-boost Function – With e-boost, riders can access increased power for approximately 15 seconds.
When activated, acceleration is stronger and top speed is increased: 64 km/h to 75 km/h (ECO), 88 km/h to 99 km/h (ROAD). 62 km/h to 72 km/h (ECO), 85 km/h to 99 km/h† km/h (ROAD) for Z e-1].
Regenerative System – Thanks to the regenerative system, the energy of deceleration is recycled back to the battery, contributing to a longer cruising range.
Both bikes certainly look fantastic and we can’t wait to put them to the test here at BikeReview…
Although the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 are primarily commuter models, Kawasaki engineers say they worked hard to ensure that they offered the riding excitement for which Kawasaki motorcycles are famous. A carefully crafted balance of confident handling and light manoeuvrability will have even new riders looking forward to their daily commute.
Kawasaki-Designed Motorcycle Chassis – A chassis based on Kawasaki’s Ninja/Z400 motorcycles delivers sure-footed handing that riders will find reassuring. Built by a motorcycle manufacturer highly acclaimed for their reliability, the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 offer the same solid build quality as all Kawasaki motorcycles.
A relaxed rider triangle accommodates a wide range of rider sizes and riding situations, contributing to the rider-friendly character. The relatively upright riding position and slightly foot-forward footpeg position put the rider in a position to control the bike while also offering rider comfort. A frame with carefully tuned rigidity balance coupled with motorcycle suspension components with optimised settings give the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 light, predictable handling and rider-friendly response.
At only 140kg and 135kg respectively, the light weight of the Ninja and Z e-1 contributes to a rider-friendly package. Front and rear disc brakes provide sure stopping performance, while ABS adds a measure of reassurance. Having no clutch to operate—riders need only twist the throttle—greatly simplifies operation and contributes to a rider-friendly package.
Whether your preference is for the full-fairing style of a Ninja, or the lightweight, nimble look of a Z Supernaked, Kawasaki’s new EV commuters offer attractive motorcycle styling complemented by new colour and graphics designed to give them a distinct image. And with a number of utility features, these machines seamlessly blend sporty performance and daily convenience.
Kawasaki Ninja/Z Motorcycle Design & EV Colouring – Complementing the attractive Ninja and Z motorcycle styling, silver and matte lime green colouring offers a fresh, futuristic image for Kawasaki’s EV models.
TFT Instrumentation with Smartphone Connectivity – a 4.3in all-digital TFT colour instrumentation gives the cockpit a high-tech, high-grade appearance, while being able to connect to your ride wirelessly offers an enhanced motorcycling experience. Convenient Storage Box – Lifting the storage box cover reveals 5 litres of easy-access space for small items like gloves or rain gear. (Max 3 kg)
Both the Kawasaki Ninja e-1 and the Z e-1 are available in Australia now…
2025 Kawasaki Ninja e-1 (Z e-1) Specifications
Price: $11,603 ($11,294) Ride Away ex Sydney (use calculator here)
Colours: Silver and Matte Lime Green
Warranty: 24 Months
Claimed power: 9kW@4000rpm
Claimed torque: 40.5Nm@0-1600rpm
Top Speed: 88 to 105km/h (101km/h) e-Boost
Curb weight: 140kg (135kg) with batteries
Range Claimed: N/A
Range Measures: N/A
Servicing: N/A
Engine: Air-cooled, interior permanent magnet synchronous motor, chain final drive Power: Dual Litium Ion batteries, 50.4V/30Ah each, external charger, 3.7h charge time (home per battery).
Chassis: Steel trellis frame
Rake: 24.4º Trail: 93mm
Suspension: 41mm conventional forks, 120mm, non-adjustable, Uni-Trak rear suspension, 133mm.
Brakes: Single 290mm front rotor, two-piston sliding caliper (f), single 220mm rear rotor, two-piston sliding caliper (r), ABS.
Wheels & Tyres: Cast alloy wheels, 110/80 – 17, 130/70 – 17 tyres.
Dimensions:
Wheelbase: 1370mm
Ground clearance: 160mm
Seat height: 785mm
Overall height: 1105mm (1035mm)
Overall length: 1980mm
Overall width: 690mm (730mm)
Instruments & Electronics: 4.3in TFT wireless dash, BT connectivity, Road/Eco Power Modes, ABS, Ergo Fit System.
