2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 Specifications

Name: 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200
Brand: Kawasaki

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2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 Overview

The 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 is a sport touring motorcycle built around 1164 cc of displacement. Under the tank sits an In-line four engine running DOHC valve actuation. 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 delivers 164 of torque. The factory-quoted top speed stands at 270 km/h, making it a capable performer in its class. From a practical standpoint, the 2004 ZZR 1200 tips the scales at 236 kg, carries a 23-litre fuel tank, offers a seat height of 780 mm and spans a 1,500 mm wheelbase. Scroll down for the complete 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 spec sheet covering every technical detail from suspension travel to tyre sizes.

2004 ZZR 1200 - Pros & Cons

Strengths

Factory engineering: The 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 represents Kawasaki's engineering at the time, with a specification built around real-world usability.

Considerations

Carburetor fuelling: Carbureted engines need occasional jetting attention and can be reluctant in cold weather or at altitude compared to modern fuel-injected alternatives.

Owner Experiences & Common Issues

Carburetor maintenance

Carburetors on the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 benefit from a clean and re-jet if the bike has been stored, run on stale fuel, or modified with an aftermarket exhaust. Owners frequently mention that fresh jets and float needle clips transforms throttle response from flat to crisp.

Valve clearance checks

DOHC engines should have valve clearances checked at the manufacturer's specified interval. Owners report that clearances can tighten over time on higher-mileage bikes, leading to slight ticking from the top end. Catching it early keeps the job simple and avoids more costly remediation.

Low-speed confidence

At 236 kg, the ZZR 1200 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.

ZZR 1200 - Buying & Maintenance Guide

What to check before buying

When inspecting a used 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200, 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 ZZR 1200 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 ZZR 1200. 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.

Carburetor upkeep

Keep the carburetors clean and free of deposits. If the ZZR 1200 has been stored, strip and clean the carb float bowls before attempting to start it. Pilot jets are the first to block and the last to be checked - always include them in any carb rebuild.

Valve clearance service

Check that valve clearances have been adjusted at the correct intervals on any used ZZR 1200. This is a job many owners skip because the bike does not immediately feel wrong - but tight clearances accelerate valve seat wear. Ask for proof it has been done.

2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 - Frequently Asked Questions

What engine does the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 have?

The 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 uses an In-line four engine with 1164 cc of displacement.

What is the top speed of the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200?

The 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 has a factory-quoted top speed of 270 km/h. Real-world speeds vary depending on rider weight, conditions and state of tune.

How much does the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 weigh?

The 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 weighs 236 kg. This is the manufacturer's dry figure.

How much power does the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 make?

The 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 produces 164 of torque.

What is the fuel tank capacity of the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200?

The 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 has a 23-litre fuel tank.

Is the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 suitable for shorter riders?

The 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 has a seat height of 780 mm. This is a moderate seat height that suits a wide range of rider heights.

What brakes does the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 have?

The 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 uses Double disc at the front and Single disc at the rear.

What tyre sizes does the 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 use?

The 2004 Kawasaki ZZR 1200 runs 120/70-ZR17 front and 180/55-ZR17 rear tyres. A good selection of sport, touring and all-weather rubber is available in these sizes.

Kawasaki ZZR 1200 Spec Evolution

The Kawasaki ZZR 1200 was produced across 2 model years (2004-2005). The table below highlights the key specifications that changed across the production run - useful whether you are comparing years or tracking down a specific variant.

Specification	2004	2005
Dry Weight	236 kg / 520.3 lbs	235.9 kg / 520.0 lbs
Seat Height	780 mm / 30.7 in.	800 mm / 31.5 in.
Fuel Capacity	23.00 litres / 6.08 gallons	23.08 litres / 6.10 gallons
Displacement (cc)	1164.00 cc	1.16 cc
Displacement (ci)	71.03 cubic inches	0.07 cubic inches
Wheelbase	1,500 mm / 59.1 in.	1,506 mm / 59.3 in.
Fuel System	Carburettor	Carburettor. Keihin CVKD40 x 4
Colours	Silver, Blue	Blue