Description
Click here for an VINData Motorcycle History Report on this 1996 Kawasaki ZX-7R. Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
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 November of 1995, this example is VIN: JKAZXDP17TA000773. The seller acquired the bike through an Iconic Motorbikes auction in September of 2019.
During his ownership, the seller has covered less than 100 miles. The odometer shows 6,677 miles.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us clean and sync the carbs and perform a safety inspection. Our service department notes the following in their condition report:
Gas Tank Condition: DIY lining, incomplete coverage
Tire Years – Front: 2216; Rear: 1416
Tire Life – Front: 100%; Rear: 100%
Tire Pressure – Front/ Rear:
Brake Life – Front: 60%; Rear: 50%
Hydraulic Fluid – Front/Rear: Dark;
Clutch: Ok
Engine Oil – Level: Over filled; Quality: Unknown
Coolant – Level: Too Full; Quality: Unknown
Low Beam: Ok
High Beam: Ok
Parking Light: N/A
Turn Signals: Ok
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light: Ok
Plate Light: Ok
Killswitch: Ok
Horn: Ok
Fork: Front Leaking
Shock/s: No leaks
Final Drive: Ok, Slightly rusty
Battery:
OCV: 12.64V
Test Ride: None, Bike ran on bottle
Notes:
-Tank lining compromised, needs relining (unknown liner composition, may need to burn to remove. Will need to repaint if so)
-Needs new coolant tank cap – damaged threads
-Chain has clip link
-Exhaust silencer has crash damage – dinged up
-Bike shows signs of being down on both sides
-Gas tank dinged on RH side+ on top
-Screen has light scratches
-Imperfections on mirrors, fairing upper, RH fairing, LH fairing and tail section, top of tank
-Brakes are dragging
-Fuel Lines are not connected because of tank lining
Services Recommended:
• Tank Clean + Lining
• Oil + Filter
• RR Front and Rear Brake Fluid
• RR Coolant
• Rebuild forks
• Chain Service
• Front Caliper Rebuild
Modifications:
This ZX-7R appears to be stock.
It is riding on Bridgestone Battlax S21 tires with date codes of 1416 and 2216.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Kawasaki is offered on a clean Utah title. Have any ZX-7R stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!