After the success of the original Kawasaki Elektrode, designed for the youngest riders, Kawasaki has released the next step up—the 2025 Kawasaki Elektrode 20. Designed for riders aged eight and up, until they reach 132 pounds, the Elektrode 20 offers significant improvements in power and handling. We tapped Avery Bart as our test rider, since she previously helped us test the original Elektrode with her brother Henry. Spoiler alert: She likes the 2025 Kawasaki Elektrode 20.
- The Elektrode formula remains essentially unchanged for the 20, though everything is a bit “more”. The top speed of the Elektrode 20 is 24 mph in the Mid and High modes, with Low mode capping speed at 13 mph. That’s definitely not slow, and High mode has undeniably snappy throttle response. Test rider Avery can handle High mode, though not every young rider will be able to, especially those with limited experience with electric motors. It’s wise to start slow and ramp up as necessary.
- The new 2025 Kawasaki Elektrode 20 is a versatile two-wheeler. Thanks to its quiet one-horsepower motor, driven by a 10.2 amp-hour battery, it’s welcome where internal combustion two-wheelers might not be. This makes it suitable for suburban riding under supervision, while still capable of light trail riding in rural areas. It can be transported in a car due to the easy removal of the handlebar and front wheel.
- Operation remains very simple. The rider selects one of three power modes via a button on the left-handlebar LCD dash and twists the throttle to go. There’s no clutch or transmission. The only learning curve is with the throttle. Modes can only be changed when the Elektrode 20 is stopped. The motor is embedded in the rear hub, eliminating chain maintenance.
- Test rider Avery fits the 2025 Kawasaki Elektrode perfectly. The seat height can be adjusted from 21.6 to 27.2 inches. Additionally, the solo seat and handlebar are bicycle-standard components that can be customized. The footrests resemble bicycle pedals but pivot to help maintain stability on rough terrain. For reference, Avery is 4-foot-7, weighs 67 pounds, and is 10 years old.
- Front suspension adds comfort for the rider. While the braced, bicycle-style fork with two inches of travel isn’t sophisticated, it’s better than a rigid front end, especially when wheelies are aborted or when riding on washboard terrain. It remains a hardtail frame, but we expect the next Elektrode model to be fully suspended.
- 20-inch wheels expand the horizons of the 2025 Kawasaki Elektrode 20. Although they come with narrow bicycle tires, the 20-inch rims can roll over most obstacles.
- The IRC bicycle tires are high-pressure, which can easily break traction, particularly in High power-mode. This is great for a rider like Avery who enjoys spinning the rear wheel but can be frustrating on low-traction uphills or in sand, where unintentional digging occurs.
- Disc brakes at both ends now slow down the 2025 Kawasaki Elektrode 20, unlike the smaller Elektrode, which only had a rear brake. This setup allows riders to learn the essential skill of front-wheel braking. Although the brakes use mechanical rather than hydraulic calipers, the two 160mm discs efficiently slow down the 46-pound Elektrode 20. Stoppies are definitely on the menu for the right rider.
- Range depends heavily on the rider and terrain. Kawasaki claims an hour in High mode and three hours in Low mode. We found the range adequate for neighborhood or campsite use; it’s not meant for long adventures or commuting to school. If the battery, integrated into the frame, gets fully depleted, it takes about four hours to charge back to 100% using a standard AC outlet. The charger is included, with the charging port at the front of the frame.
- We’re impressed by the durability of the Elektrode 20. It was ridden aggressively off-road, while also tackling street curbs and other suburban obstacles. Nothing broke or bent, even when adults exceeding the 132-pound weight limit took it for spins. The frame is rugged, and the 46-pound weight indicates Kawasaki didn’t cut corners on strength.
- As sized, the 2025 Kawasaki Elektrode 20 is a natural step up for Elektrode riders when the time comes. Older riders who missed out on the original Elektrode will find the 20 a welcoming introduction to electric-powered two-wheelers. Avery approved, and we’re in no position to argue with her.
Photography by Don Williams
2025 Kawasaki Elektrode 20 Specs
MOTOR
- Type: Brushless; rear hub
- Maximum power: 750 watts (1 horsepower)
- Top speeds: Low, 13 mph; Mid, 24 mph; High, 24 mph
- Cooling: Air
- Transmission: Clutchless single-speed
- Final drive: Rear-hub motor
BATTERY
- Type: Lithium-ion
- Maximum capacity: 10.2 amp-hour
- AC charge time: 4 hours
- Range: High range, 1 hour; low range, 3 hours
CHASSIS
- Front suspension; travel: Non-adjustable braced, bicycle-style 28mm fork; 2 inches
- Wheels: Cast aluminum
- Tires: IRC
- Front and rear tire: 2.125 x 20
- Front brake: 160mm disc w/ mechanical caliper
- Rear brake: 160mm disc w/ mechanical caliper
DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES
- Wheelbase: 38.9 inches
- Seat height: 21.6-27.3 inches
- Ground clearance: 7.1 inches
- Maximum rider weight: 132 pounds
- Rider height range: 37 to 55 inches
- Minimum age: 8 years old
- Curb weight: 46 pounds
- Colors: Lime Green; Black
2025 Kawasaki Elektrode 20 Price: $2199 MSRP
2025 Kawasaki Elektrode 20 Review Photo Gallery
