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Test: Kawasaki ER-6N (Baujahr 2011)

Once in, everything in it

01.04.2019

Just a motorcycle, no more and no less. The Kawasaki ER-6N was available for around 6,500 euros in 2011. Today, of course, it is even cheaper - but with more than 22,000 kilometers, it's still in good shape? We got a test bike and found out.

Little money, little motorcycle?

Motorcycles such as the Kawasaki ER-6N are often referred to as entry-level motorcycles. Sure, if I were a beginner, I'd probably shortlist the Kawa until I was sure what suits me. However, one should not ignore another target group: those who simply want to ride a motorcycle and avoid all discussions about PS performance or technology.

What do they get for their money?

First of all, all sorts of things, just no frills. Electronic helpers? Please, here's the ABS, there's no more. That's why the cockpit and controls are kept so simple and easy to understand - there is simply nothing to operate or adjust. One choice, however, should be made before buying the Kawa: Should it be the "N" presented here, which stands for naked, or the "F" that wears a disguise (see picture below)?

In both cases, it is noticeable how small the Kawasaki ER-6N actually is. It is not only comparatively narrow, but short with a wheelbase of just over 1.40 metres. And with a seat height of 805 millimeters low. In addition, you sit more in the machine than on it. This gives smaller people a good feeling, because most people will come to the floor without any problems with all the soles of their feet. Longer-legged people such as test driver Dietmar with a light height of 1,840 millimetres have also not complained. Then we can throw on the machine and go ... such a crap ...

Lightweight with a penchant for turning

... Of course: With the start of the two-cylinder, the exhaust gases escape through the retrofitted LeoVince system and make noise. Annoying. I like it when the original sound is already so good that you don't have to do anything to little. Ducati plus Termignoni, which fits because the series sound is already good. Small engine with retrofit sound ... Well, yes. Dietmar thinks it sounds great, takes a look at the video and decides for himself.

Be that as it may, the function of the engine does not affect the noisy bag. The 72 hp feel good. Matching its task as an all-rounder, the ER-6N carries an engine in the frame that works even at lower speeds. At the same time, it is a typical Kawa engine: if you want to have everything, the gas has to stop. Cool.

Touted as an all-rounder, after a few kilometers the orientation of the Kawa shows up as a curve star. Although the straight-line run is good, from 130 km/h a bit of restlessness comes into the building.

Curves? Yes, please!

Although the straight-line run on the motorway may not be the best, there is a real curve star to marvel at, which you have full control at all times thanks to the upright seating position. This is the defining character trait of the Kawa. She makes the most of her only 206 kilos full and spoils with her handiness, which does not seem to be tippy.
Naturally, 72 hp does not rip the chunks out of the asphalt, but in cooperation with this chassis the ER-6N becomes a really round thing.

Conclusion - what gets stuck

The Kawasaki ER-6N is a motorcycle that is above average often bought as the first bike ever, including many women. In short, they are doing nothing wrong. The Kawa does not present any problems (at least with the serial exhaust) and makes the acclimatization easy. If you just want to do a lap every now and then, if you can't or don't want to spend 20,000 euros on a motorcycle, if you're on the road without a technical frill - folks, this is your motorcycle. No one needs more. And you saved a lot of money, too.
Once to the trader and good is forever - life can be so simple.

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