Back in 1996, Kawasaki decided to standardize naming for their popular 750 sportbike worldwide, rebadged the model in the US as the ZX-7R — the double R moniker was reserved for the more potent homologation special that Kawasaki sold in very limited numbers.
With the name change came several important updates, including a new engine with more mid-range power, a pair of ram-air intakes, as well as a set of Tokico six-pots and some fully-adjustable suspension front and rear. Despite making comparable power to Suzuki’s rival GSX-R SRAD, the ZX-7R came in 25kg (55lbs) heavier. Even still, the bike was a top seller due in large part to its street prowess and classic good looks that have stood the test of time.
VisorDown summed it up best in their retrospective review of the ZX-7R: “The Kawasaki ZX-7R still rates as one of the best-looking race-replica machines ever. And it’s been looks alone that have kept the venerable sexy seven so popular.” They go on to say that while the ZX-7R wasn’t as “radical” as their main competitor (the GSX-R750), it sold better thanks to better styling and a “race pedigree that the Suzuki couldn’t match.”
Manufactured in July 1997, this example is VIN: JKAZXDP14WA026056.
The odometer shows 6,021 miles.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection and the following work to show that it runs as it has been sitting for a few years:
-New battery
-Carb service
-OE fuel filter installed
-New OE turn signal stalk
Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok
Engine Oil Level: Ok
Engine Oil Quality: Ok
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: Low
Coolant Quality: Fail, >300 mV
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: Fail, >3% Moisture
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: Fail, >3% Moisture
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: No fluid in reservoir
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: Ok, Dirty
Headlight High Beam: Ok
Headlight Low Beam: Ok
Passing Light: N/A
Parking Light: Ok
Turn Signals: Ok
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light (Front Switch): Ok
Brake Light (Rear Switch): Ok
Plate Light: Ok
Horn: Ok
Kill Switch: Ok
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: 80%
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: 80%
Forks: Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: Pre-2000 [118]
Tire Date Code Rear: Pre-2000 [068]
Tire % Remaining Front: 60%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 80%
Tire Press. Front: 32 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 34 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: 12.7V
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: 14.8V
Running Condition: Ok, runs on bench
Test Ride Completed: None taken
Test Ride Distance: N/A
Tires Installed
Front: 120/70-17 (58W) Metzler Z3’s
Rear: 190/50-17 (73) Metzler Z3’s
Notes:
-Low coolant in reservoir, and sign of coolant leak from water pump
-Clutch reservoir has no fluid, does not build pressure
-Bike runs but not test ridden due to aged tires
-Chain is dirty
REPAIRS RECOMMENDED:
-Coolant flush
-Chain service
-Engine oil + filter
-Hydro 3
-Fluid leak diagnostic – leak near coolant pump
-Tires (aged out)
Modifications:
Bolts used as swingarm spools.
Battery tender lead.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on what appears to be the original Metzeler MEZ3 tires with date codes from 1998.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Kawasaki is offered on a clean California title.
The California DMV estimates that it would cost $325 to make registration current through November 2027.
Have any ZX-7R stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
