VS
The 1987 Kawasaki EX500 and 1994 Kawasaki ZX-9R 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 1994 Kawasaki ZX-9R by contrast offered 899cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 139hp at 10500rpm. Tipping the scales at 208.0kg (459 lbs) with a top speed of 265km/h (165 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 1994 Kawasaki ZX-9R by contrast offered 899cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 139hp at 10500rpm. Tipping the scales at 208.0kg (459 lbs) with a top speed of 265km/h (165 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 | 1994 Kawasaki ZX-9R | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 899 cc |
| Power | 60 hp | 139 hp |
| Torque | 44.0 Nm | 96.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 265 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 173.0 kg | 208.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 189.0 kg | 228.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1400 mm | 1455 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 19.0 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 1994 Kawasaki ZX-9R pushed output to 139hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1994 Kawasaki ZX-9R holds the edge with a 5/10 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 1994 Kawasaki ZX-9R
The 1994 1994 Kawasaki ZX-9R packs a 899cc DOHC inline-4 engine with 139hp into a sport bike package from Kawasaki.
Full 1994 Kawasaki ZX-9R Profile →