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The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 and 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 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 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 Eliminator by contrast offered 592cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 75hp at 10000rpm. Tipping the scales at 196.0kg (432 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 Eliminator by contrast offered 592cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 75hp at 10000rpm. Tipping the scales at 196.0kg (432 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 | 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 Eliminator | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1089 cc | 592 cc |
| Power | 108 hp | 75 hp |
| Torque | 92.0 Nm | 50.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 250.0 kg | 196.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 270.0 kg | 212.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 730 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1530 mm | 1510 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 20.0 L | 14.0 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 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 Eliminator pushed output to 75hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 holds the edge with a 5/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection.
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 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 Eliminator
A cruiser from 1986, the 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 Eliminator delivers 75hp from its 592cc DOHC inline-4 engine.
Full 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 Eliminator Profile →