Description
The GPX750 of the late 1980s was no slouch in terms of power, and it even won Cycle World’s award for best 750cc streetbike in 1987 and 1988. Still, Kawasaki saw potential with a new class of Ninja using the 16-valve liquid cooled inline four from the GPX and in 1989 launched what would become one of their most iconic models. The ZX-7 was a completely new bike with a perimeter style aluminum frame, adjustable suspension, 17″ wheels front and back and a tweaked 750cc engine putting out a solid 105 horsepower.
Unlike the rare homologation specials released by other Japanese manufactures, the ZX-7 was an affordable 750cc bike that was available to everyone – racers and street riders alike. The ZX-7 was a really good road bike right out of the crate, but with some special parts and a bit of work it could be made into a very competent race machine, and for many years the bike saw incredible success on the race track.
Performance Bikes magazine saw 91 hp at the rear wheel with a 152 mph top speed in a 1989 test. Crucially, it was easy to ride (though the rear suspension was quite stiff). As noted in a period review, it was “one of the few modern 750s that can be ridden to its maximum in comparative safety.”
Arguably just as important, it looked the part. As Bennett’s says, “When Kawasaki pulled the covers off the ZXR it was love at first sight for riders all over the world. With its twin headlights, race inspired fairing and paint scheme and hoover pipes, the ZXR looked every bit an endurance racer for the road. Add in the beefy aluminium E-Box frame, 17-inch wheels and sporty rubber and the ZXR certainly gave the impression it meant business. Who cared if the hoover pipes did absolutely nothing aside from blow air onto the cylinder head, they looked cool and that was what really counted.” It was the springboard for the long series of Kawasaki 750cc sportbikes that we all adore.
The 1990 H2 model saw significant improvements all around. An upgraded cylinder head with larger ports and valves increased engine performance, carbs were changed from 36mm to 38mm, a curved radiator design improved cooling, headers went from 4-2-1 to a 4-1 design, the swingarm changed from a box-beam type to a single cast/welded diamond shaped piece, and the chassis was stiffened. In an effort to reduce weight, lighter piston and connecting rods were used, as well as lighter wheels and hollow axles. All this brought the sophmore Ninja down from 452 pounds dry to 441 pounds.
This example is VIN: JKAZXDH17LA017863. The seller purchased the bike seven years ago from a collector.
During his ownership, the seller has covered approximately 5,000 kilometers (3,106 miles). The odometer shows 80,041 kilometers (49,735 miles).
Maintenance:
Per the seller, “Oil changes and valve adjustment 5,000kms ago. New ignition coils. Could use some jetting to optimize for full exhaust. Runs strong. Freshly powder coated frame and bracketry.”
Modifications:
“Black Widow full exhaust. Powder coated chassis and brackets.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Michelin Pilot Power 2CT tires with date codes of 3710 and 1612.
The sale includes one key, extra exhaust, and extra bodywork. The seller notes, “Performance machine rims, which are period correct and used by Team Muzzy Kawasaki in the 1990s. Very sought after! Fox shock. An extra rolling chassis that was in a flood, which has an uncut rear under tail mudguard & wheels. Extra set of wheels and brakes, plus the parts shown in pictures.”
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“Some scratches on bodywork and tank. Some cracks in bodywork.”
Currently located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada this Kawasaki is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any ZX-7 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
