Cold Start Video:
Riding Video:
The Kawasaki GPz550 really set the middleweight class alight when it came out in 1982. It was the result of steady development that produced a mid-weight that could give the big boys a good run for their money. They had it pretty much their own way since Honda’s CBX550 wasn’t out and Suzuki admirable 550 wasn’t out and Suzuki’s admirable 550 was not aimed at such a sports market. Obviously the GPz600R has largely replaced it, but the 550 still has plenty of fans who prefer its handling, lines and air-cooled integrity.
Power went up from 54 to a claimed 65bhp, so the move to monoshock was a sensible and successful one. A steady stream of improvements in every department shows what can be done when the manufacturer sticks with one design and refines it rather than chucking it all away and starting with a new configuration. Like a lot of the classics here, it is a blend of many attributes that makes it so good just as much as outright performance.
This example is VIN: JKAKZFH14DB500309. The seller purchased the bike from a private seller in Oregon in fall of 2025.
The odometer shows 5,833 miles and the current owner has put 200 miles on this example.
It is US and California emissions compliant.
Maintenance:
Seller states: “Carbs were cleaned, kitted, rebuilt and synchronized. Needles shimmed to address EPA mandated lean condition. Left switch pod replaced to fix broken clutch safety interlock switch connection. Oil changed. Dent in tank was removed.”
Mechanical Issues:
Seller states: “4 way emergency flasher unit is operating only the left flashers.”
Modifications:
Seller states: “Factory fixed needle jets shimmed to address lean condition.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Bridgestone Battlax BT46 tires with date codes of 0523 and 3023.
The sale includes 2 ignition keys, the owner’s manual, and service manuals.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“Small chips and scratches commensurate with 46 years and 6000 miles. Paint has been touched up most noticeably on lower left front of tank and directly above petcock, typical corrosion from nearly 50 years in high humidity of the Pacific Northwest.”
Currently located in Seattle, Washington, this 1983 Kawasaki GPz550 is offered on a clean Washington title.
Have any GPz550 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
