The 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator from Japan was powered by a 902cc DOHC inline-4 producing 105hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 241.0kg (531 lbs) and with a seat height of 740mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 by contrast offered 498cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 60hp at 10000rpm. Tipping the scales at 173.0kg (381 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
| 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator | 1987 Kawasaki EX500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 902 cc | 498 cc |
| Power | 105 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 80.0 Nm | 44.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 241.0 kg | 173.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 260.0 kg | 189.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 740 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1550 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator laid the groundwork with 105hp, while the later 1987 Kawasaki EX500 pushed output to 60hp. 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 moderate for the 1985 Kawasaki ZL900 Eliminator and good for the 1987 Kawasaki EX500 — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 →About the 1987 Kawasaki EX500
Kawasaki released the 1987 Kawasaki EX500 in 1987 with a 498cc DOHC twin powerplant making 60hp — a definitive sport bike.
Full 1987 Kawasaki EX500 Profile →