A two-fold powerhouse
The Kawasaki Ninja 7 HEV is engineered with a unique blend of two power sources. A 451cc parallel twin combustion engine offers either manual or automatic gear options. Complementing this is a 9-kilowatt electric traction motor, coupled with a 48-volt battery pack. Kawasaki terms this combination a "strong hybrid system," marking it as the first of its kind in mass production.
Performance metrics
The bike boasts an impressive 43.5 kW (about 58.3 horsepower), which can escalate to a peak of 51.1 kW (approximately 68.5 horsepower) with the e-Boost feature. This function is also a highlight of Kawasaki's fully electric models, the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1.
Comparing it with combustion bikes
Kawasaki has positioned the Ninja 7 HEV as a machine that mimics the performance and size of traditional 650-700cc bikes. The naming strategy—Ninja 7—is cleverly designed to distinguish it from existing models while maintaining brand recognition.
Key features to look for
Idle Stop Function: A fuel-saving feature that halts the combustion engine when the bike is stationary.
Automatic Launch Position Finder: Automatically engages first gear when the bike is stationary.
Walk Mode: A low-speed option for both Reverse and Forward, first seen in the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 models.
TFT Dash Display: A full-color dashboard similar to those in Ninja e-1 and Z e-1.
Ride Modes: Three different settings, including EV, Eco Hybrid, and Sport Hybrid.
Clutch-Free Operation: Push-button shifting on the handlebar.
Availability and market strategy
Currently, the bike is announced for the European and UK markets, with more information about pricing and broader availability expected soon.
Conclusion
The 2024 Kawasaki Ninja 7 HEV represents a significant step toward greener motorcycling without compromising on power or performance. With its innovative features and pioneering hybrid system, this bike is set to redefine what riders can expect from a modern motorcycle.