VS
The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 and 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 from Japan was powered by a 1089cc DOHC inline-4 producing 108hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 250.0kg (551 lbs) and with a seat height of 820mm, it was aimed at standard 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.
The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 from Japan was powered by a 1089cc DOHC inline-4 producing 108hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 250.0kg (551 lbs) and with a seat height of 820mm, it was aimed at standard 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 KZ1100 | 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1089 cc | 902 cc |
| Power | 108 hp | 105 hp |
| Torque | 92.0 Nm | 80.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 250.0 kg | 241.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 270.0 kg | 260.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 740 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1550 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 20.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 laid the groundwork with 108hp, while the later 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator pushed output to 105hp. Both share equal collector appeal at 5/10. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection. Parts availability is good for the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 and moderate for the 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100
Introduced in 1981, the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 features a 1089cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 108hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 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 →