Kawasaki goes electric with the launch of the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 commuter models in Australia.
With the launch of two new models Kawasaki goes electric in Australia in what it describes as a “light-hearted solution to urban commuting”. Both the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 are classified as 125cc-class motorcycles, but are based on the chassis of the Ninja 400/Z400. Exact pricing for your area can be found on the Kawasaki Australia website; when we checked using the 2000 postcode, the website suggested a ride away price of $11,603 for the Ninja e-1 and $11,294 for the Z e-1.
Both the new Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 feature an electric motor rated at 5.0kW (9.0kW max) that is said to produce quick response and strong low-end power. Claimed peak torque is 40.5Nm from 0-1600rpm.
There are several ride modes available. In addition to normal operation (ROAD), riders can also choose speed-limited operation (ECO). Top speed in ROAD Mode is 88km/h (85km/h for Z e-1), while top speed in ECO Mode is limited to 64km/h (62km/h for Z e-1).
With a range of around 71km depending on usage, these bikes are definitely aimed at urban commuters.
Both bikes feature removable dual lithium-ion batteries weighing 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 said to be approximately 3.7 hours for a full charge, or 1.6 hours for a partial (20% – 85%) charge.
An e-boost function allows riders to access increased power for approximately 15 seconds. When activated, acceleration is stronger and top speed is increased from 64km/h to 75km/h in ECO mode, and 88km/h to 99km/h in ROAD mode. [62km/h to 72km/h (ECO), 85km/h to 99km/hkm/h (ROAD) for Z e-1].
A regenerative braking system ensures the energy of deceleration is recycled back to the battery, contributing to a longer cruising range.
Kawasaki says that using the chassis of the Ninja 400/Z400 motorcycles ensures “sure-footed handing that riders will find reassuring”. A relaxed rider triangle accommodates a wide range of rider sizes and contributes to a rider-friendly character. Weighing in at only 140kg and 135kg respectively, the light weight of the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 contributes to a rider-friendly package, as does the no-clutch operation.
According to Kawasaki, “Having no clutch to operate – riders need only twist the throttle – greatly simplifies operation and contributes to a rider-friendly package.”
Features include TFT instrumentation with smartphone connectivity and a convenient 5-litre storage box.
*Offboard charging refers to charging systems not native to the vehicle itself. Since the battery charger (which takes AC power and coverts it to the DC power needed to charge the batteries) is located outside the bike, this is an example of offboard charging.
