The Kawasaki Z1 900, introduced in the early 1970s, is a motorcycle that played a pivotal role in the superbike era, setting new standards for performance and speed. Here’s a detailed description of this iconic model:
Model: Kawasaki Z1 900
Key Specifications:
- Years: The Kawasaki Z1 900 was introduced in 1972.
- Engine: The Z1 900 featured a powerful four-stroke, transverse four-cylinder engine, marking a significant departure from the traditional inline-four motorcycles of its time.
- Capacity: The engine had a displacement of 903 cc, making it one of the largest and most powerful motorcycles of its era.
- Bore x Stroke: The engine’s bore and stroke measurements contributed to its performance characteristics.
- Cooling System: The Z1 900 utilized an air-cooling system, a common feature in high-performance motorcycles.
- Compression Ratio: The engine’s compression ratio played a crucial role in optimizing combustion for enhanced performance.
- Induction: The motorcycle featured carburetors for fuel induction, providing an efficient air-fuel mixture for combustion.
- Ignition: The Z1 900 likely employed a traditional points or contact breaker ignition system.
- Starting: Electric and kick-starting mechanisms were typically available for the Z1 900, offering convenience and flexibility.
- Max Power: The Z1 900 delivered a substantial maximum power output, contributing to its superbike status.
- Suspension: The motorcycle featured front telescopic forks and rear dual shocks, providing a balance between comfort and performance.
- Brakes: The Z1 900 likely had front and rear disc brakes, representing advanced braking technology for its time.
- Wheels and Tires: Fitted with appropriate tires for its high-performance nature, the Z1 900 featured durable wheels capable of handling its power.
- Frame: The frame design was sturdy and designed for stability, contributing to the motorcycle’s handling characteristics.
- Fuel Capacity: The fuel tank had a capacity suitable for long rides, reflecting the Z1 900’s touring capabilities.
Additional Features:
- The Kawasaki Z1 900 is widely recognized for its role in shaping the superbike category, setting a new standard for speed and performance.
- Known for its distinctive styling, the Z1 900 featured a unique design that became iconic in the motorcycle world.
- The model’s success contributed to Kawasaki’s reputation as a manufacturer of high-performance motorcycles.
The Kawasaki Z1 900 remains a classic and influential motorcycle, leaving a lasting legacy in the history of motorcycling and superbike development.
| Model | Z1 900 |
|---|---|
| Years | 1972 |
| Engine | Four-stroke, transverse four-cylinder, DOHC, 2 valves per cylinder |
| Capacity | 903 cc / 55.1 cu-in |
| Bore x Stroke | 66 x 66 mm |
| Cooling System | Air cooled |
| Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 |
| Lubrication | Wet sump, trochoid pump |
| Air Filtration | Treated synthetic fiber |
| Induction | 4 x 28mm Mikuni VM28SC carburetors |
| Ignition | Battery and coil |
| Starting | Electric & kick |
| Max Power | 82 hp / 59.8 kW @ 8500 rpm |
| Max Torque | 73.5 Nm / 54.3 lb-ft @ 7000 rpm |
| Clutch | Wet, multi-plate |
| Transmission | 5 Speed |
| Final Drive | Chain |
| Primary Drive | Straight cut gears |
| Gear Ratio | 1st 12.79:1 2nd 8.84:1 3rd 6.74:1 4th 5.58:1 5th 4.92:1 |
| Frame | Double tubular steel cradle |
| Front Suspension | 36mm Telescopic forks |
| Rear Suspension | Dual shock, 5-way preload adjustment |
| Front Brakes | Single 296mm disc, 2-piston caliper |
| Rear Brakes | 200mm drum |
| Front Tyre | 3.25 H19 |
| Rear Tyre | 4.00 S18 |
| Rake | 27° |
| Trail | 3.75 in. |
| Dimensions | Length 2209.8 mm / 87.0 in. |
| Wheelbase | 1498.6 mm / 59.0 in |
| Handlebar Width | 818 mm / 32.2 in. |
| Seat Height | 812.8 mm / 32.0 in. |
| Ground Clearance | 170 mm / 6.75 in. |
| Dry Weight | 230 kg / 507 lbs |
| Wet Weight | 247.6 kg / 546 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 18 Litres / 4.7 gal |
| Consumption Average | 48 mpg |
| Braking Distance 30 mph – 0 | 29.00 ft. |
| Braking Distance 60 mph – 0 | 126.00 ft. |
| Acceleration 0-30 mph | 2.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Standing ¼ Mile | 12.61 sec / 105.63 mph |
| Top Speed | 217 km/h / 135 mph |
| Road Test | Cycle Test Cycle World |