The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 from Japan was powered by a 553cc DOHC inline-4 producing 58hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 194.0kg (428 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator by contrast offered 902cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 105hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 241.0kg (531 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 | 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 553 cc | 902 cc |
| Power | 58 hp | 105 hp |
| Torque | 47.0 Nm | 80.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 194.0 kg | 241.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 210.0 kg | 260.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 740 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1550 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 laid the groundwork with 58hp, while the later 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator pushed output to 105hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator holds the edge with a 5/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection. Parts availability is good for the 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 and moderate for the 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1981 Kawasaki GPz550
The 1981 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 is a 553cc four-cylinder sport bike that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 Profile →About the 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator
The 1985 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator packs a 902cc DOHC inline-4 engine with 105hp into a cruiser package from Kawasaki.
Full 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator Profile →