The first of its kind: Kawasaki unveils Ninja 7 Hybrid for European markets

The Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid tips the scales at 227kg, promising the performance of a 650cc to 700cc machine, while boasting the swift acceleration that matches a 1,000cc-class supersport from a standstill.

Kawasaki is shifting gears towards electric power. The brand now offers several electric motorcycles. And the latest addition? The Ninja line gets a hybrid variant.

Meet the Kawasaki Ninja 7 Hybrid. True to its name, this bike has dual power sources. For the traditionalists, it sports a 451cc parallel-twin engine, with options for manual or automatic transmissions. On the electric front, Kawasaki has incorporated a 9 kW motor (equivalent to 12 hp) backed by a 48-volt battery system.

Kawasaki labels this configuration as their hybrid system and also boasts that it’s the inaugural production motorcycle of its kind in the world. While they haven't disclosed the combined power output, sources suggest that the tandem engines churn out 43.5 kW (or around 59 hp). With the e-Boost feature, this can momentarily surge to 51 kW (or 69 hp).

In terms of torque, the figures are equally impressive, with a maximum system power with ICE and EV combined of 60.4 Nm at 2,800rpm. 

Kawasaki positions the 227kg Ninja 7 Hybrid as mirroring the dimensions and prowess of a 650cc to 700cc combustion bike. This could be the inspiration behind the 'Ninja 7' name. On the fuel efficiency front, the goal is to parallel models with as little as 250cc with a WMTC Class 3-2 certified rating of 4.0 l/100 km.

Though comprehensive specifications are still under wraps, Kawasaki has highlighted some notable features of this innovative bike:

• A smart idle stop system that shuts the combustion engine off when at a complete stop
• An intuitive start position detector that auto-selects the first gear when the bike is stationary, allowing for a quick departure
• A Walk Mode for forward and reverse movement at minimal speeds
• A vibrant color TFT screen
• Three ride modes: EV, Eco-Hybrid, and Sport-Hybrid
• The clutch lever is replaced by a handlebar-mounted push-button switch

Kawasaki, being a global player, introduces its bikes at varied timelines across regions. As of October 6, 2023, the Ninja 7 Hybrid's debut is slated for the European and UK markets. Expect detailed specs and pricing to be unveiled "soon".

Source: Kawasaki