Magazine - 02/11/05

© Kawasaki Original, easy, with very rigorous handling, the ER-6n is shaking up the small world of the entry-level motorcycle.

With a price tag of 5,999 euros (£4,500 in the UK), the new Kawasaki ER-6n sets out to be nothing less than the reinterpretation of the basic entry-level motorcycle. A versatile motorcycle that gives pleasure to all, whether it be in the context of a riding school or long journeys at the handlebars of an economical machine, which gives phenomenal pleasure in everyday use as well as on the open road. A nice looking motorcycle without a hint of aggression, a perfectly healthy chassis and a sensational engine, the ER-6n should have no difficulty in establishing itself as the leader of economical motorcycles, a segment in which the three other major Japanese manufacturers are either absent, or still rather cautious.

Except for its engine layout, an in-line twin, which according to Kawasaki offers the best of character and ease, the ER-6n has borrowed nothing from the old ER5 model. The two-tone frame is a minimalist steel trellis enfolding a remarkably compact engine, which delivers 72 hp at 8,500 rpm and a nice torque of 6.7 kg m at 7,000 rpm. The catalytic muffler beneath the engine lowers the centre of gravity and makes it easier to stow luggage at the rear, although there are not enough bungee hooks.
 
Extremely easy to take in hand, light and instinctive, the ER-6 has a riding position that will suit everyone. So this motorcycle will be not only an ideal alternative for beginners, but also a particularly wise alternative for those wishing to beat the traffic jams in the best conditions, without forking out an exorbitant amount of money.

The engine contributes fully to this pleasure by demonstrating remarkable flexibility. Very accommodating, it picks up seamlessly from 2,000 rpm whatever the gear, only giving slight, almost apologetic jerks if you really ask too much of it. The gearbox gives full satisfaction. In the context of daily use, the ease of this chassis and the character of this engine, which is never boring, form a combination of rare efficiency that outclasses the competition. In town, we would just install a top case for greater practicality even if there is room under the saddle for a U lock.

Away from urban traffic congestion, the ER-6 continues to make a display of its homogeneity. Road holding and braking are of a very high level, making for handling that is both safe and fun. Any fears you may have regarding the quality of suspension the weak point of these motorcycles soon disappear with the realisation that you are dealing with a fork that is not especially firm either under compression or rebound, but gives a good level of comfort and tracks very precisely. Another pleasant surprise is the rear shock absorber, which has no linkages and confesses its limits only on very uneven tarmac.
The engine's very low inertia, combined with the overall lightness, makes for incredible agility and endless pleasure on winding routes. Extremely willing whatever the revs, and very flexible, the engine is extraordinary and, once again, will delight novices and experienced riders alike.
On faster stretches, the stability and serenity of the ER-6 are never found wanting. Only the lack of protection could make one prefer the f version, which has a full fairing and will be available at the end of the year. But despite wind pressure, comfort over long distances is still very satisfactory. The vibrations felt in the handlebars at 6,000 rpm (130 kph/81 mph in 6th) are never bothersome.

Average combined urban/extra urban fuel consumption stands at a very reasonable 4 litres per 100 km (62 miles). Also of note, the ER-6 is the first motorcycle in its category to be Euro 3 compliant.
 
So this new ER-6n, immediately available at dealerships, therefore has all it takes to corner a large share of sales of basic motorcycles in Europe. A machine that is definitely to be tested!