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1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 Overview
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 is a naked bike motorcycle built around 1286 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits a Four stroke, transverse six cylinder, DOHC, 2 valve per cylinder engine, a compression ratio of 9.9:1. 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 delivers 87.5 kW @ 8000 rpm of peak power and 116 Nm @ 6500 rpm of torque. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 223.6 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 1981 Z 1300 tips the scales at 322 kg, carries a 27-litre fuel tank and spans a 1580 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.
1981 Z 1300 - Pros & Cons
Strengths
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Strong power output: 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 makes 87.5 kW @ 8000 rpm with 116 Nm @ 6500 rpm of torque - competitive figures for its class.
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Large fuel range: The 27-litre tank is generously sized, translating to extended range between stops - ideal for touring or longer commutes.
Considerations
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Age-related wear: As with any used Z 1300, a thorough pre-purchase inspection covering consumables, service history and tyres is always recommended.
Owner Experiences & Common Issues
Low-speed confidence
At 322 kg, the Z 1300 is a substantial machine. New owners occasionally mention that slow-speed manoeuvring in car parks takes a little getting used to. Once moving, the weight disappears - but practising slow-speed exercises builds confidence quickly.
Z 1300 - Buying & Maintenance Guide
What to check before buying
When inspecting a used 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300, start with the basics: check the service book for oil change frequency, inspect the chain and sprockets for wear, and look for oil seepage around the engine casings and rocker covers. A cold start test is invaluable - a well-maintained Z 1300 should fire up cleanly and settle to a smooth idle within a few seconds.
Oil and filter changes
Regular oil changes are the single most important maintenance task on any Z 1300. Stick to the manufacturer's interval - typically every 6,000 km or once a year, whichever comes first. Always use the correct viscosity grade as specified in the owner's manual.
1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 - Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 have?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 uses a Four stroke, transverse six cylinder, DOHC, 2 valve per cylinder. engine with 1286 cc of displacement. It is liquid cooled.
What is the top speed of the 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 has a factory-quoted top speed of 223.6 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.
How much does the 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 weigh?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 weighs 322 kg. This is the manufacturer's wet figure.
How much power does the 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 make?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 produces 87.5 kW @ 8000 rpm of power and 116 Nm @ 6500 rpm of torque. These are peak figures.
What is the fuel tank capacity of the 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 has a 27-litre fuel tank. At around 5-6 litres per 100 km, that is roughly 450-540 km between stops.
What brakes does the 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 have?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 uses 2x 260 mm discs, 2 piston calipers at the front and Single 250 mm disc, 1 piston caliper at the rear.
What tyre sizes does the 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 use?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 runs 110/90 -18 front and 130/90 -17 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.
What gearbox does the 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 have?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 is fitted with a 5 Speed transmission.
Key Specifications
Engine
Four stroke, transverse six cylinder, DOHC, 2 valve per cylinder.
Power
87.5 kW / 120 hp @ 8000 rpm
Torque
116 Nm / 11.8 kgf-m / 85.6 ft. lbs @ 6500 rpm
Top Speed
223.6 km/h / 139 mph
Fuel Capacity
27 Litres / US 7.1 gal
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Full 1981 Kawasaki Z 1300 Specifications
Year
1981 - 82
Make Model
Kawasaki Z 1300
Wheelbase
1580 mm / 62.2 in
Ground Clearance
145 mm / 5.7 in
Dry Weight
297 kg / 654.8 lbs
Fuel Capacity
27 Litres / US 7.1 gal
Oil Capacity
4.5 L / 1.2 US gal
Wet Weight
322 kg / 709 lbs
Displacement
1286 cc / 78.5 cu in
Engine Detail
Four stroke, transverse six cylinder, DOHC, 2 valve per cylinder.
Bore x Stroke
62 x 71 mm
Compression Ratio
9.9:1
Cooling System
Liquid cooled
Engine Oil Specification
Mineral, 10W/40
Fuel Consumption
6.5 L/100 km / 15.3 km/l / 36 US mpg
Fuel Induction
3x 32mm twin choke Mikuni BSW carburetors
Ignition
Analogue CDI (Capacitive Discharge Ign.)
Lubrication
Wet sump
Spark Plug
NGK, CR9E
Starter
Electric
Clutch
Wet multi disc
Final Drive
Shaft
Gear Ratios
1st 2.29 (39/17) / 2nd 1.67 (35/21) / 3rd 1.28 (32/25) / 4th 1.07 (29/27) 5th 0.93 (27/29):1
Transmission / Drive
5 Speed
Frame Type
Double Cradle
Suspension - Front
Telescopic forks
Suspension - Rear
Dual shocks preload adjustable
Rake
28.5°
Trail
102 mm / 4.0 in.
Wheel Travel - Front
200 mm / 7.9 in.
Brakes - Front
2x 260 mm discs, 2 piston calipers
Brakes - Rear
Single 250 mm disc, 1 piston caliper
Tyres - Front
110/90 -18
Tyres - Rear
130/90 -17
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