Kawasaki has unveiled its first two production electric motorcycles: the Ninja e-1 and the Z e-1. Both models are meant for city use with a 9 kW motor, which makes them equivalent to the 125 cc class and around 72 km of range.

Electric motorcycles are slowly gaining traction, with models like the Harley-Davidson LiveWire and even electric brands like Zero Motorcycles already on the market.

Another traditional player has entered the game, with Kawasaki unveiling its first zero-emission motorbikes. And not a moment too soon, as the Japanese brand has promised it would have ten electric models by 2025.

125 cc A1-class

However, the Kawasaki Ninja e-1 and Z e-1 are not competing with LiveWire and Zero. With ‘only’ a 9 kW motor (5 kW continuous), they’re more of a competitor to the BMW eParkourer, another 125 cc equivalent bike, which means you can ride it with an A1 license (which you used to get with your driver’s license in Belgium).

That 9 kW of power gets you up to 99 kph when using the e-boost function, while the two removable batteries offer up to 72 km of range, which means these bikes are mostly meant for the city. The difference between the Ninja e-1 and the Z e-1 is purely cosmetic: the Ninja has fairings, while the Z e-1 is a naked bike.

Other features include a ‘Twist and Go’ clutchless drive, ABS brakes, an optional docking station, and accessories like Ergo-Fit seats and other charging solutions. Battery specs and pricing are yet to be announced, but the models are already expected at the dealers by the end of October.