Description
Click here for an VINData Motorcycle History Report on this 1984 Kawasaki GPz550. Please note: VINData incorrectly lists the model as a ZX1100.
The 1970s were all about big ccs and big power, with bikes like Kawasaki’s KZ1000, Honda’s CBX, and Suzuki’s GS1000. Most of the motorcycle world’s attention was focused on these big bore UJM creations, at the expense of budget-friendly middleweight bikes that could still offer great performance. In 1981, Kawasaki changed everything with the introduction of the GPz550 – it was the first real middleweight four stroke motorcycle that could go up against something like the Yamaha RD400s of the late ’70s. When measured against the more pedestrian KZ500, the GPz was downright sporty – and that made it wildly popular.
The GPz550 featured an inline four that was air and oil cooled and put out around 57 horsepower through a six speed gearbox. 1982 saw an update to Kawasaki’s Uni-Trak rear monoshock suspension, a bit more power, new gauges and different colors. The bike had triple disc brakes which were a big upgrade over the prior KZ model’s single front disc and rear drum, the suspension was also much better with an air adjustable fork and rebound adjustable rear shock. Performance was excellent with a stock bike being able to return mid 12 second quarter mile times.
1984 saw the power bumped up to 65 hp and a change to more stylish, flowing bodywork. The GPz laid the ground work for what would become the Ninja several years later, and the rest is history.
This example is VIN: JKAZXFA14EA005579. Engine: KZ5500E047. The seller purchased the bike one year ago and states, “This 1984 Kawasaki GPz550 was purchased in March of 2024 from the original owner in Staten Island, NY. It had been in garage storage for many years, having last been registered and ridden in 1988. The 1984 GPz550 from Kawasaki was an upgrade from the earlier models and is fitted with a Uni-Trak mono shock rear suspension, a larger more streamlined fairing and a horsepower boost to 65 BHP, up from the previous generation 57 BHP. The air-cooled 553cc motor connects to a six speed transmission and it came stock with an air adjustable fork, antidive braking system, electronic ignition, triple disc brakes and a very nice 4 into 2 exhaust. The motorcycle is finished in Kawasaki Firecracker Red, with Silver and Blue accent decals. It came equipped with three spoke tubeless alloy mag wheels, center and side stands, hazard flashers, fuel gauge and a two up seat with passenger pegs. This 1984 GPz550 is a time capsule of the 1980s sport bike wars. It is in excellent running and riding shape, with very few flaws. The original exhaust is in excellent shape and the controls are original. It rides and handles as it did when it was new, and it could be taken and used without worry by any new owner who has a desire for a classic midsized sport bike of the day. It even sports the original license plate frame from Staten Island Kawasaki, along with the original owners manual. It was ridden at a Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club Rally where it garnered significant attention and several offers.”
During his ownership, the seller has covered approximately 775 miles. The odometer shows 3,859 miles.
Maintenance:
Per the seller, “In preparation for getting it roadworthy once again, the oil and oil filter were changed, the front and rear brake systems were flushed and refilled with Bosch DOT 3 synthetic fluid, the air filter was replaced and new Denso spark plugs were installed along with new resistor spark pug caps. The forks were drained, flushed and new fork oil was installed. New brake pads were installed front and rear. Additionally, the fuel tank was flushed and the original TK27 carbs were ultrasonically cleaned and rebuilt with new carb repair kits. The floats were set to spec and the carburetors were synchronized. The original tires were replaced with new Shinko 10 SR712F and SR712R tires. The paint and body panels were in very good shape and required only cleanup and polishing.”
Modifications:
According to the seller, the bike is stock.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Shinko SR712 tires with date codes of 2122.
The sale includes two keys, owner’s manual, and original warranty.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“Small scuff at the end of the left muffler, windshield cellophane trim is flaking in spots, scuff mark on turn signal housing.”
Currently located in Tillson, New York, this Kawasaki is offered on a clean New York title. Have any GPz550 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
