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 1988 Kawasaki ZX-10 by contrast offered 997cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 137hp at 10500rpm. Tipping the scales at 228.0kg (503 lbs) with a top speed of 265km/h (165 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 | 1988 Kawasaki ZX-10 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 902 cc | 997 cc |
| Power | 105 hp | 137 hp |
| Torque | 80.0 Nm | 98.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 265 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 241.0 kg | 228.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 260.0 kg | 248.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 740 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1550 mm | 1500 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 22.0 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 1988 Kawasaki ZX-10 pushed output to 137hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1988 Kawasaki ZX-10 holds the edge with a 6/10 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 1988 Kawasaki ZX-10 — 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 1988 Kawasaki ZX-10
The 1988 1988 Kawasaki ZX-10 is a 997cc four-cylinder sport bike that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1988 Kawasaki ZX-10 Profile →