Kawasaki’s new electric Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 are easy to charge and simple to ride.

Summary

• The 2024 Kawasaki Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 are all-electric motorcycles with sportbike styling and comparable performance to the 125cc class of machines.
• The bikes feature an e-boost function for added power, dual lithium-ion batteries that are removable for easy charging, and a full-size chassis for a more advanced look.
• However, the bikes have a high MSRP for their performance, limited range, and charging is limited to Level-1 (120V). The tires also don’t provide much confidence in handling.

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  2024 Kawasaki Ninja e-1

  The 2024 Kawasaki Ninja e-1 all-electric motorcycle shares the sharp-edged design of its bigger Ninja siblings but delivers comparable performance to the 125cc class of machines. An e-boost function adds some extra grunt when you need it most, and its dual lithium-ion batteries are removable, allowing for both on- and off-bike charging. The Ninja e-1’s light handling, easy operation, manageable power, and full-size chassis make this an excellent first bike without looking like one.

  Model

  Ninja e-1

  Engine:

  Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor

  Torque

  29.7 LB-FT at 500 RPM

  Range

  41 Miles

  Transmission

  Automatic

  Driveline

  Chain

  MSRP

  $7,899

  MSRP (As Tested)

  $7,899

  Charge Time

  7.5 Hours

  Horsepower

  12

  Pros

  • Easy on- or off-bike charging
  • e-boost function adds power (in short doses)
  • Full-size bike appeal with entry-level performance
  • Simple clutch-less operation

  Cons

  • High MSRP for the performance
  • Limited Range
  • Charging limited to Level-1 (120V)
  • Tires don’t inspire confidence

• 

  

  2024 Kawasaki Z e-1

  The 2024 Kawasaki Z e-1 all-electric motorcycle shares similar design cues and ergonomics to its bigger Z 400 sibling, while offering similar levels of power to that of a 125cc bike. An e-boost function keeps the ride exciting and adds some extra zing for zipping ahead of traffic. Removable dual lithium-ion batteries can be charged on the bike or carried home and charged using a Level-1 charger and 120V socket. Light handling, easy operation, manageable power, and full-size chassis make this an excellent first bike without looking like one.
   

  Model

  Z e-1

  Engine:

  Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor

  Torque

  29.7 LB-FT at 500 RPM

  Range

  41 Miles

  Transmission

  Automatic

  Driveline

  Chain

  MSRP

  $7,599

  MSRP (As Tested)

  $7,599

  Charge Time

  7.5 Hours

  Horsepower

  12 Horsepower

  Pros

  • Easy on- or off-bike charging
  • e-boost function adds power (in short doses)
  • Full-size bike appeal with entry-level performance
  • Simple clutch-less operation

  Cons

  • High MSRP for the performance
  • Limited Range
  • Charging limited to Level-1 (120V)
  • Tires don’t inspire confidence

Kawasaki Motor’s research and development department has been busy. Team Green recently released the world’s first production hybrid motorcycle, the Ninja 7 Hybrid we tested in Barcelona. Turning heads at its annual dealer conference in Phoenix, Arizona, this week was a hydrogen-powered concept bike, and the firm also released the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1, its first all-electric motorcycles. We went along to test-ride the new e-1 bikes on the streets of Phoenix to see how they compare to similarly specced gas bikes.

Styling is all that separates Kawasaki’s all-electric e-1 bikes. Naturally, the Ninja e-1 takes its design cues from Kawi’s supersport lineup, and the Z e-1 gets a wide handlebar and a naked look. Developed for scooting around town, the e-1 bikes offer limited range and power but offer enough of both for the average commute or an urban adventure. An e-boost function adds some extra zip for overtaking or getting ahead of the traffic at the lights, and their simple operation, lightweight, and low seat make them an ideal first motorcycle.

The Ninja and Z e-1 cost $7,899 and $7,599, respectively – high MSRPs that may dent their appeal. Still, their low running costs, big-bike design, simple twist-and-go operation, and zero emissions will win favor with new riders and the environmentally conscious alike. Additionally, the e-1s’ thoughtfully designed battery pack allows for its easy removal for charging off-bike. Riders who park on public streets or places without access to power can easily take the batteries home to charge with a regular 120V outlet.

In order to provide you with an honest and unbiased review, the vehicle reviewed in this article was ridden on a daily basis throughout the course of daily life for a period of one week. For detailed insight into testing procedures and data collection, please review our methodology policy.

2024 Kawasaki Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 First Impressions

The Ninja and Z e-1 inherit a modified version of the Ninja and Z 400’s trellis chassis and share similar body paneling and control components. The e-1 bikes have the dimensions of a 400 with 125cc accessibility, which is especially appealing to nascent riders who want to hone their skills on proper bikes. The Ninja e-1’s aggressive, angular cowling and sinister spoilers look every bit as racey as its bigger cousins. Both get the same LED lights as the 400 and similar ergonomics capable of accommodating taller riders in reasonable comfort.

Before beginning the test ride, we received a quick demonstration of the e1 lineup’s battery pack. Opening a hinged cover where the gas tank would normally reside reveals a compartment with dual slots containing two sealed lithium-ion batteries with carrying handles. Each weighs about 25 pounds, hence two batteries instead of one. Just leave your helmet on and carry the batteries to wherever you want to charge them. If you are fortunate enough to have a parking spot with a convenient power outlet, the tail section hides a socket for charging the batteries in place.

Motor And Performance

The e-1 bikes get a compact permanent magnet synchronous motor with a 5 kW rating and a maximum output of 9 kW, or 12 horsepower. Providing the juice, dual 50-volt lithium-ion batteries arranged in a parallel circuit offer a combined capacity of 60 Ah. The e-1 uses a Level-1 charger and requires about 3.7 hours to fully recharge each battery from empty, about 7.5 hours in total. Although Kawasaki reports that an 85% charge is achievable in under 2 hours per battery. Note that the parallel arrangement means the batteries are co-dependent. They will drain simultaneously, and both require charging for normal operation.

The e-1s develop similar horsepower to motorcycles in the 125cc class but offer better pick-up thanks to their torquey motors. However, the 5 kW motor soon runs out of breath, and to add some extra power when you need it, Kawasaki has included an e-boost function capable of briefly tapping the full 9 kW available. Hit the e-boost button on the right-hand grip and, assuming the batteries have the requisite charge, a boost meter appears on the screen. With e-boost engaged, opening the throttle elicits a markedly improved response, and the Ninja or Z e-1 will accelerate with the alacrity of a 400cc bike for about 15 seconds. In the standard Road mode, top speed taps out at just over 50 MPH, but with e-boost engaged, they can briefly manage 59 MPH.

The Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 have a regenerative system that recycles deceleration energy back to the batteries once they drop below 60 percent of capacity. Kawasaki quotes a maximum range for the fully-charged e-1s of about 41 miles. Considerably less than more powerful and pricey electric bikes like the Livewire S2 Del Mar or the Zero DSR/X we recently tested, which can achieve well over 100. Designed for short urban trips, the entry-level e-1 bikes are not rated for highway use. An ECO mode limits power output to conserve the batteries and provide slightly more range when required.

Performance Specifications

Ride And Handling

The suspension fitted to the e-1’s modified steel trellis frame combines a 41mm fork and a gas-charged monoshock with four-way adjustable preload. Both front and rear suspension offer progressive spring rates to prevent bottoming out in potholes. Providing the stopping power is a single 290mm disc with a two-piston caliper at the front, and another two-piston caliper clamping a 220mm disc at the rear. The 309-pound Ninja e-1, with the extra bodywork, weighs slightly more than the 298-pound Z e-1. Although 298 pounds is heavier than many 125cc bikes available, it is considerably less than similarly sized 400 cc gas bikes.

The lightweight design compliments the sporty geometry, while 17-inch alloy wheels add to the full-size bike appeal and a measure of stability. The suspension is forgiving but firm enough to offer plenty of feedback, and the ABS-equipped brakes do a competent job. Throttle response is smooth, and power output is easy to manage. Both the Ninja and Z e-1s are extremely nimble and easy to ride. Even those capable cyclists who have never so much as thrown a leg over a motorcycle would likely find the clutchless e-1 easy to adapt to.

Chassis Specifications

Technology And Equipment

A full-color, 4.3-inch TFT display provides a digital speedometer, ride mode indicator, e-boost gauge, and battery charge and temperature gauges. It also includes a range indicator and depicts current and average electric consumption data. The TFT screen’s ambient light detector automatically adjusts brightness and inverts the instrument display in low light conditions. It also allows for manual selection of both settings.

In addition to the two riding modes, the e-1 bikes also get Kawasaki’s nifty WALK Mode function. With WALK Mode activated, opening the throttle moves the bike forward at a walking pace, or by rolling the throttle forward (beyond its default position), the bike moves in reverse, making parking a breeze. The Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 offer Bluetooth smartphone connectivity via Kawasaki’s RIDEOLOGY app, giving riders access to battery state of charge information and a riding log with GPS route and vehicle running information.

Standard Equipment

• e-boost Power Function
• Automatic Transmission
• Two Riding Modes
• ABS
• Off-Board Charging Cable

2024 Kawasaki Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 Vs Its Competitors

In the UK and much of Europe, a regular driver’s license also legally entitles holders to ride motorcycles of up to 125cc engine capacities with nothing more than a written test. Kawasaki designed the Ninja and Z e-1 electric motorcycles to qualify for the 125cc distinction, ensuring they have a large potential market in these countries. In my home state of California, USA, any motorcycle or scooter capable of achieving 30 MPH or more requires a full motorcycle license or endorsement and, in many other US states, the maximum ridable capacity on a standard license is just 50cc, making the e-1’s a harder sell in the US.

You could argue that KTM’s gas-powered Duke 200 shares a similar size and performance, but it seems likely that potential e-1 owners in the US will be exclusively shopping in the electric market. The Zero FXE shares similar styling and sizing with the Z e-1 but is much more powerful and costs $4,000 more. In the US, the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1’s closest competitors are similarly priced electric bikes with comparable performance, such as the Chinese-built CSC RX1E. Another alternative is a bike from a new American marque called Kollter, who offer the ES1 S PRO. All share a similar price point and comparable sizing but deliver different levels of performance and refinement.

How The Kawasaki Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 Compare To The CSC RX1E

• 

  

  2024 Kawasaki Ninja e-1

  The 2024 Kawasaki Ninja e-1 all-electric motorcycle shares the sharp-edged design of its bigger Ninja siblings but delivers comparable performance to the 125cc class of machines. An e-boost function adds some extra grunt when you need it most, and its dual lithium-ion batteries are removable, allowing for both on- and off-bike charging. The Ninja e-1’s light handling, easy operation, manageable power, and full-size chassis make this an excellent first bike without looking like one.

  Model

  Ninja e-1

  Engine:

  Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor

  Torque

  29.7 LB-FT at 500 RPM

  Range

  41 Miles

  Transmission

  Automatic

  Driveline

  Chain

  MSRP

  $7,899

  Charge Time

  7.5 Hours

  Horsepower

  12

• 

  

  2023 CSC RX1E

  With a top speed of 80 mph, a claimed city range of 112 miles, and a peak power output of 18 kW (24 hp), the 2023 CSC RX1E delivers tremendous bang for the buck. The finishing is less refined than similar performing electric motorcycles, and a dated cockpit could do with a TFT, but an RX1E will leave enough change from $9,000 to buy a nice helmet.

  Model

  RX1E

  Engine:

  DC water-cooled permanent magnet motor

  Torque

  61.2 FT-LB

  Range

  60 Miles

  Transmission

  Direct Drive Automatic

  Driveline

  Belt

  MSRP

  $8,495

  Charge Time

  6 Hours

  Horsepower

  Nominal 8kW / Peak 18 kW (18 HP)

CSC is one of the many brands making up Zongshen, a Chinese manufacturing giant. The RX1E is a budget fully electric motorcycle capable of hitting 80 mph, with a claimed range of 112 miles from its 18 kW (24 hp) motor. The RX1E offers a great deal more performance than Kawasaki’s e-1 bikes and is not as beginner-friendly, but still retails for $8,495. Standard features include ABS brakes, an adjustable brake lever, multiple ride modes, a backlit display, and a reverse mode, similar to the e-1’s. The RX1E’s styling and finishing are less refined than the e-1’s, and the CSC brand is relatively unproven here, in the US.

How The Kawasaki Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 Compare To The Kollter ES1 S PRO

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  2024 Kawasaki Z e-1

  The 2024 Kawasaki Z e-1 all-electric motorcycle shares similar design cues and ergonomics to its bigger Z 400 sibling, while offering similar levels of power to that of a 125cc bike. An e-boost function keeps the ride exciting and adds some extra zing for zipping ahead of traffic. Removable dual lithium-ion batteries can be charged on the bike or carried home and charged using a Level-1 charger and 120V socket. Light handling, easy operation, manageable power, and full-size chassis make this an excellent first bike without looking like one.
   

  Model

  Z e-1

  Range

  41 Miles

  Transmission

  Automatic

  Driveline

  Chain

  MSRP

  $7,599

  Charge Time

  7.5 Hours

  Horsepower

  12 Horsepower

• 

  

  

  2023 Kollter ES1-S PRO

  The Kollter ES1-S PRO is a budget electric street motorcycle offering usable power and range. Designed and built in California, USA, the ES1 is the firm’s second-generation all-electric bike. 

  Model

  ES1-S PRO

  Range

  58 Miles

  Transmission

  Single Reduction Gear Automatic

  Driveline

  Chain

  MSRP

  $6,995

  Charge Time

  4.5 Hours

  Horsepower

  Nominal 5KW / Peak 15 HP

Califonia-based Kollter released the first generation of its ES1 all-electric motorcycles in 2021. The ES1-S PRO is a street bike with super-moto styling and is aggressively priced, with an MSRP of $6,995. Kollter’s ES1-S has similar specifications and performance parameters to the Kawasaki Ninja and Z e-1s but comes out slightly on top in both range and power. Perhaps more surprisingly, the newcomer also offers a five-year/50,000-mile limited parts & labor warranty, which eclipses the two years offered by Kawasaki.

Should You Buy The Kawasaki Ninja e-1 and Z e-1?

I suspect Kawasaki had its eye on the European market when it designed the Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 bikes. Qualifying them for 125cc licensing status means many Europeans can ride an e-1 without passing a motorcycle riding test. In addition, many European cities are introducing low-emissions zones (LEZ), limiting city-center access to gas-powered vehicles. The e-1 bikes are ideally suited to urban adventures and the daily commute around LEZ cities. You could argue this is equally true in US cities. However, you will need a motorcycle license, and once you have that, the e-1s seem likely to lose much of their appeal. Nevertheless, if riding green is your dream, and you want a simple urban gadabout that still looks like a proper motorcycle, an e-1 might be for you.