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The 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 Eliminator and 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago are both iconic 1980s cruisers that defined their respective markets.
The 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 Eliminator from Japan was powered by a 592cc DOHC inline-4 producing 75hp at 10000rpm. Weighing 196.0kg (432 lbs) and with a seat height of 730mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago by contrast offered 535cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 44hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 Eliminator from Japan was powered by a 592cc DOHC inline-4 producing 75hp at 10000rpm. Weighing 196.0kg (432 lbs) and with a seat height of 730mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago by contrast offered 535cc of OHV V-twin power, delivering 44hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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
| 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 Eliminator | 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 592 cc | 535 cc |
| Power | 75 hp | 44 hp |
| Torque | 50.0 Nm | 42.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 196.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 212.0 kg | 212.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 730 mm | 740 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1510 mm | 1490 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 12.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure cruiser performance, the 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 Eliminator has the edge thanks to more power (75hp vs 44hp) and a higher top speed. The 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago, however, excels when relaxed highway cruising and long-distance comfort is the priority and offers a lighter package.
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 →About the 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago
Introduced in 1988, the 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago features a 535cc OHV V-twin engine producing 44hp, establishing itself as a notable cruiser.
Full 1988 Yamaha XV535 Virago Profile →