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The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 and 1989 Kawasaki ZXR750 represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 from Japan was powered by a 498cc DOHC twin producing 60hp at 10000rpm. Weighing 173.0kg (381 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, it was aimed at sportbike 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.
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 from Japan was powered by a 498cc DOHC twin producing 60hp at 10000rpm. Weighing 173.0kg (381 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, it was aimed at sportbike 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
| 1987 Kawasaki EX500 | 1989 Kawasaki ZXR750 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 748 cc |
| Power | 60 hp | 105 hp |
| Torque | 44.0 Nm | 70.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 245 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 173.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 189.0 kg | 213.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 laid the groundwork with 60hp, 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.
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 →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 →