Description
Click here for an VINData Motorcycle History Report on this 1998 Kawasaki ZX-7R.
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 June of 1997, this example is VIN: JKAZXDP1XWA025185.
During his ownership, the seller has covered approximately 1 mile. The odometer shows 644 miles.
It was originally sold at Steier’s Cycles in Elgin, Illinois (no longer in business).
Per the seller, the “original owner bought it new, rode a few times, and let it sit under a blanket for 26 years. He found my shop as he was searching for a quality place to get it running again so he could give it to his son in law. The son in law rode it around the block when I got done with it, and let it sit again for the winter. He contacted me to buy it from him a month ago. I knew it was a good bike since I knew the owner and I personally did all the service work on it.”
Maintenance:
“As a shop owner, I performed all necessary service before I purchased it. Ultrasonic carb clean with new jets/needles, new fuel lines, new fuel, new petcock, tune up with spark plugs, new oil and filter, bleeding front/rear brakes and clutch fluid, new battery, flush coolant, and new tires front and rear.” The seller states that there are no known mechanical issues and it “runs as new.”
Modifications:
Per the seller, this bike is completely stock. “As OEM as it can be right off showroom floor.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Shinko tires with date codes of 0124 and 2224.
The sale includes two keys and the owner’s manual.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“There are a couple minor ones. First is a small ding in the top of the tank. Second is a scuff on the left side lower fairing.”
Currently located in Elgin, Illinois, this Kawasaki is offered on a clean Illinois title in the original owner’s name. Have any ZX-7R stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
