VS
The 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 Eliminator and 1996 Yamaha Royal Star both compete in the cruiser segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
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 1996 Yamaha Royal Star by contrast offered 1294cc of OHV V-4 power, delivering 75hp at 4750rpm. Tipping the scales at 303.0kg (668 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 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 1996 Yamaha Royal Star by contrast offered 1294cc of OHV V-4 power, delivering 75hp at 4750rpm. Tipping the scales at 303.0kg (668 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 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 | 1996 Yamaha Royal Star | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 592 cc | 1294 cc |
| Power | 75 hp | 75 hp |
| Torque | 50.0 Nm | 110.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 160 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 196.0 kg | 303.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 212.0 kg | 328.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 730 mm | 720 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1510 mm | 1650 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure cruiser performance, the 1986 Kawasaki ZL600 Eliminator has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1996 Yamaha Royal Star, however, excels when relaxed highway cruising and long-distance comfort is the priority.
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 1996 Yamaha Royal Star
The 1996 1996 Yamaha Royal Star is a 1294cc four-cylinder cruiser that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1990s.
Full 1996 Yamaha Royal Star Profile →