2024 Kawasaki Ninja E-1 and Z E-1 Announced for Europe

The e-1 models are both powered by the same air-cooled interior permanent magnet synchronous motor, rated at 6.7 hp at 2,800 rpm (with a claimed peak output of 12.1 hp), and a claimed 29.9 lb-ft. of torque.

Each bike is powered by two removable 50.4 V lithium-ion battery packs, each with a nominal capacity of 30 Ah. The batteries are mounted in parallel under a storage compartment where a fuel tank is typically located. When installed, the battery charge levels are shown on the left and right sides of the TFT display, and on their own, each battery has its own charge level indicator.

There are three options for charging a battery: by plugging it into a charger, connecting it to a charging dock, or, with the battery installed on the motorcycle, by connecting the charger to a port located in the tail. Only the third method allows both batteries to charge simultaneously, unless you have a second accessory charger. Kawasaki claims a charge time from 0 to 100% of 3.7 hours for each battery, and a partial charge from 20 to 85% in 1.6 hours.

Kawasaki claims each battery weighs 25.4 pounds, which means a combined 50.8 pounds for the batteries alone. Despite the heavy batteries, Kawasaki says the Ninja e-1’s claimed weight of 309 pounds is 19.8 pounds lighter than the Ninja 125. The Z e-1 is likewise lighter than its gas-powered counterpart, with Kawasaki claiming a curb weight of 298 pounds compared to 324 pounds for the Z 125.

The Ninja and Z e-1 each offer two ride modes, Road and Eco. In Road mode, the Ninja e-1 can reach a claimed top speed of 55 mph while the less aerodynamic Z e-1 tops out at a claimed 43 mph. Eco mode produces a milder throttle response and a reduced top speed. In Road mode, the Ninja and Z e-1 claim a range of 45 miles, but judicious use of Eco mode and the regenerative braking can help extend that range.

Kawasaki also added an e-boost function which unlocks more power for 15 seconds at a time, and a higher top speed. For European models, the e-boosted top speed is limited to 62 mph, which implies a higher speed in markets where it is not restricted. The e-boost function is limited to just 15 seconds to prevent overheating, and it can only be used if the charge levels of the batteries are above 35%.

The e-1 models employ a trellis frame based on the frames of the Ninja 400, reinforced to increase rigidity to compensate for the size difference between the electric motor and the 399cc Parallel-Twin engine. The motor is mounted low in the chassis behind the battery compartment.

A 41mm telescopic fork provides 4.7 inches of front wheel travel, while the four-way  preload-adjustable bottom-link Uni Trak gas-charged rear shock offers 5.2 inches of travel. Both the front and rear 17-inch wheels are equipped with dual-piston calipers. Nissin provides the ABS control unit.