Kawasaki has unveiled its latest innovation in the world of motorcycles – the Ninja 7 Hybrid, a stunning blend of a combustion engine and a full electric powertrain. This middleweight roadster promises to offer impressive fuel economy, electric power boost, and various intriguing features that set it apart from the crowd.
The Ninja 7 Hybrid is equipped with a newly designed 451cc parallel twin combustion engine that delivers a respectable 43.5 kW (58.3 hp) on its own. Complementing this engine is a 9-kW (12-hp) electric motor, powered by a 48-V lithium-ion battery located under the seat. When combined, these elements create a hybrid system that can generate up to 51.1 kW (68.5 hp). However, it’s important to note that the peak power from the electric motor is only available temporarily to prevent overheating.
Despite this limitation, Kawasaki claims that the Ninja 7 Hybrid accelerates like a literbike thanks to the electric torque, and in regular usage, it provides the overall performance of a 650-700cc class motorcycle while maintaining the fuel consumption of a 250cc bike.
The motorcycle offers riders a choice of sport-hybrid, eco-hybrid, and full-electric modes. Additionally, it includes a “walk mode” that assists in pushing the bike in either forward or reverse. The combustion engine incorporates an auto stop/start system to save fuel.
One notable feature of the Ninja 7 Hybrid is its gearbox, which does not require a clutch lever. Instead, riders can choose between manual or automatically selected gears. Furthermore, it features an “Automatic Launch Position Finder” system that ensures the motorcycle is always in first gear when coming to a stop.
Despite these impressive features, some questions remain unanswered. Kawasaki has not disclosed the weight, price, battery size, electric range, or gas mileage of the Ninja 7 Hybrid. It will be interesting to see how much additional weight and cost the hybrid system adds to this streetbike.
Comparisons can be drawn to a previous hybrid bolt-on kit developed by German company Vitesco for a 401cc motorcycle, which added approximately 20 kg (44 lb) and less than $1,000 to the bike’s cost.
As we eagerly await more details, Kawasaki plans to release the Ninja 7 Hybrid in showrooms at the beginning of 2024, promising an exciting addition to the world of hybrid motorcycles.
Source: Kawasaki