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 1989 Kawasaki ZXR750 by contrast offered 748cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 105hp at 11000rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 245km/h (152 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 | 1989 Kawasaki ZXR750 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 902 cc | 748 cc |
| Power | 105 hp | 105 hp |
| Torque | 80.0 Nm | 70.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 245 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 241.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 260.0 kg | 213.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 740 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1550 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 18.0 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 1989 Kawasaki ZXR750 pushed output to 105hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1989 Kawasaki ZXR750 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 1989 Kawasaki ZXR750 — 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 1989 Kawasaki ZXR750
Introduced in 1989, the 1989 Kawasaki ZXR750 features a 748cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 105hp, establishing itself as a notable sport bike.
Full 1989 Kawasaki ZXR750 Profile →