Sequel that moves

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 42, 7 April 1987, Page 2 (Supplement)

Sequel that moves

The sequel to the 'Eliminator' is on the country's streets. No, it is not a TV programme. This is the Kawasaki ZL1000 motorbike ... and it's a motorbike that moves. In Kawasaki terms, the Eliminator was a 900cc 'boulevard' styled bike with a staggering performance. But the sequel to the Eliminator is a larger engined bike with an even more startling performance. Named the King of midrange power, the ZLlOOO's four cylinder four stroke engine of just under lOOOcc can take it from 0 to lOOkph in 2.9 seconds. Wayne List, technical manager for Kawasaki's New Zealand importers and a former drag r^cer himself, says he is "amazed at the performance on the drag strip, yet the ZL 1 000 is still a brilliant road bike". Another important refinement on the ZL1000 is an increase in the size of the fuel tank to give the bike 70% more fuel capacity, and an improved seating position for both rider and pillion. Just released on the local market at a price of $ 1 1 ,920, the ZL1000 is a beautifully engineered cruiser with a shaft drive to give smooth power from the six speed gearbox to the large 160/8015 tyre on the back wheel, the widest on any production street bike. The powerplant is basically the same as the 1000GTR, but this bike's liquid cooled in line four pumps out maximum hp

and torque at 110 ps at 9000rpm. All modifications from the 1000GTR motor contribute to a deep band of mid-range power. The main modifications responsible for the increase include dual overhead camshafts, four new and bigger 34mm Keihin carburettors, a redesigned airbox, the elimination of the counter balancer and oil cooler, and a larger double-wall exhaust

system with slash cut mufflers. The frame is made of a super-strong high tensile steel, which allows the use of lightweight, large diameter tubing with no reduction in overall frame rigidity, and it provides the rider with a neutral riding position with low rise bars, foot rests with rubber stops and a roomy, extra low stepped seat to ensure comfort in town, on the highway or on the bends.