KAWASAKI ZL1000 (1986-1990) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 1985, Kawasaki brought into the cruiser world the Eliminator series, comprised of multiple versions with slightly different styles and different engine displacements. The first two models, billed as power cruisers, were essentially street replicas of a drag-styled motorcycle with a forward seating position, a ZX900 close-ratio transmission, and a final shaft drive.

The engine of both motorcycles was the same unit that powered the 900cc Ninja motorcycles of the same year but with a different exhaust system and intake configuration. The Eliminator range was produced from 1985 to 2007 and again from 2023.

In 1986, the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer launched the Kawasaki ZL1000, an evolution of the ZL900 model with a larger engine found on the ZG1000 Concours and 34 mm carburetors.

The ZL1000 featured a more conservative style than the ZL900 model, with an extended rear fender and a larger fuel tank. The ZL1000 was available from 1987 to 1988 and was sold only in the UK, US, and Australian markets. Some 100-hp versions were sold in France, Sweden, and Germany.

The bike's appearance resembled other ZL models, packing standard features like a round headlight with instruments mounted on top, a teardrop-styled fuel tank, a two-piece dual seat, large mufflers, and three-spoke aluminum wheels.

As for the power figures, the 1987 Kawasaki ZL1000 had its heartbeat set by a 997cc four-stroke liquid-cooled four-cylinder engine with 110 hp on tap at 9,000 rpm and 91 Nm (67 lb-ft) torque at 7,000 rpm.