1981 Kawasaki KZ1100
Introduced in 1981, the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 features a 1089cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 108hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Specifications
Engine
- Type
- DOHC inline-4
- Displacement
- 1089 cc
- Cylinders
- 4
- Power
- 108 hp @ 8500 rpm
- Torque
- 92.0 Nm
- Compression
- —
- Bore × Stroke
- 72.4 × 66.0 mm
- Cooling
- Air-cooled
- Fuel System
- 4x Mikuni carburetors
Chassis & Transmission
- Frame
- Steel double cradle
- Front Suspension
- Air-assisted fork
- Rear Suspension
- Twin shock
- Front Brake
- Dual disc
- Rear Brake
- Single disc
- Front Tyre
- —
- Rear Tyre
- —
- Transmission
- 5-speed
- Final Drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top Speed
- 225 km/h (140 mph)
- ¼ Mile
- —
Dimensions & Weight
- Dry Weight
- 250 kg (551 lbs)
- Wet Weight
- 270 kg (595 lbs)
- Seat Height
- 820 mm
- Wheelbase
- 1530 mm
- Ground Clearance
- —
- Fuel Capacity
- 20.0 L
History & Story
The 1981 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 was introduced by Kawasaki as a standard motorcycle aimed at riders seeking standard motorcycle performance and style. Manufactured in Japan, it represented Kawasaki's vision for the four-cylinder standard motorcycle market during the 1980s.
Powering the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 is a 1089cc DOHC inline-4 producing 108hp. This four-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through 4x Mikuni carburetors. A 5-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.
The chassis employs a steel double cradle frame with air-assisted fork up front and twin shock at the rear. Stopping power comes from dual disc front and single disc rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 250 kg (551 lbs) dry, the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1530 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 achieves a claimed top speed of 225 km/h (140 mph). With a generous fuel capacity of 20.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 820 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Powering the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 is a 1089cc DOHC inline-4 producing 108hp. This four-cylinder engine uses air-cooled cooling and draws fuel through 4x Mikuni carburetors. A 5-speed gearbox sends power via chain final drive to the rear wheel.
The chassis employs a steel double cradle frame with air-assisted fork up front and twin shock at the rear. Stopping power comes from dual disc front and single disc rear brakes. Tipping the scales at 250 kg (551 lbs) dry, the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 offers a manageable riding experience with a 1530 mm wheelbase.
Performance-wise, the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 achieves a claimed top speed of 225 km/h (140 mph). With a generous fuel capacity of 20.0 liters, it offers reasonable range for standard motorcycle duties. The seat height of 820 mm makes it comfortable for most riders.
Known Issues
- Cam chain issues on high-mileage engines
- Electrical system gremlins
Fun Facts
- The 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 was one of the largest-displacement motorcycles of its era
- With 108hp, the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 was considered extremely powerful when launched
Collector Information
- Parts Availability
- Good
- Collector Rating
- 5/10
Resources & Parts
Compare 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 with...
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