VS
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 and 1990 Kawasaki ZX-11 ZZR1100 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 1990 Kawasaki ZX-11 ZZR1100 by contrast offered 1052cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 145hp at 10500rpm. Tipping the scales at 228.0kg (503 lbs) with a top speed of 280km/h (174 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 1990 Kawasaki ZX-11 ZZR1100 by contrast offered 1052cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 145hp at 10500rpm. Tipping the scales at 228.0kg (503 lbs) with a top speed of 280km/h (174 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 | 1990 Kawasaki ZX-11 ZZR1100 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 1052 cc |
| Power | 60 hp | 145 hp |
| Torque | 44.0 Nm | 108.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 280 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 173.0 kg | 228.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 189.0 kg | 252.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1400 mm | 1505 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 24.0 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 1990 Kawasaki ZX-11 ZZR1100 pushed output to 145hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1990 Kawasaki ZX-11 ZZR1100 holds the edge with a 7/10 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 1990 Kawasaki ZX-11 ZZR1100
Introduced in 1990, the 1990 Kawasaki ZX-11 ZZR1100 features a 1052cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 145hp, establishing itself as a notable sport bike.
Full 1990 Kawasaki ZX-11 ZZR1100 Profile →