Model Variants:
KZ750-B (B1, B2, B3, B4), KZ750-E (E1, E2), KZ750-H (H1, H2 - CSR), KZ750-K (K1, K2), KZ750-N (N1, N2 - LTD Shaft)
Production Years Covered:
1976-1980
Engine Codes:
KZ750B, KZ750E, KZ750H, KZ750K, KZ750N
Market Segment:
Mid-range to performance-oriented motorcycles of the late 1970s and early 1980s, known for their inline-four engines and strong performance for the era.
Competitors:
Honda CB750, Yamaha XS750/XS850, Suzuki GS750/GS850
Engine Configuration:
Inline-four cylinder, DOHC, air-cooled, displacing 745cc (actual displacement varies slightly by variant).
Power Delivery:
Known for smooth power delivery and a distinctive inline-four engine sound.
Design Styles:
Available in standard motorcycle, Custom (CSR - Cruiser style), and LTD (Luxury touring) variants, offering diverse aesthetics and ergonomics.
Target Audience:
Owners, mechanics, and enthusiasts seeking to maintain, repair, or restore their Kawasaki KZ750 motorcycles.
Engine Service:
Top-end overhaul (cylinder head, valves, cams), bottom-end overhaul (crankshaft, connecting rods, bearings), piston and ring replacement, timing chain and tensioner, lubrication system.
Fuel System Service:
Carburetor identification, disassembly, cleaning, adjustment (synchronization, idle), float bowl adjustment, fuel pump operation (if applicable), fuel tank and petcock.
Ignition System Service:
Ignition coil testing, spark plug selection and gap, breaker point adjustment and replacement, timing light adjustment, electronic ignition systems (if applicable).
Transmission Service:
Gearbox disassembly and assembly, gear inspection, shift drum and fork alignment, clutch operation and adjustment, final drive maintenance (chain drive or shaft drive).
Electrical System Service:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor operation, charging system (alternator/stator, rectifier/regulator), battery maintenance, lighting circuits, horn, instruments, fuses.
Suspension Service:
Front fork maintenance (oil changes, seal replacement, spring inspection), rear shock absorber inspection and replacement, steering head bearing adjustment.
Brake System Service:
Front and rear brake caliper service, brake pad replacement, master cylinder service, brake line inspection, brake fluid replacement and bleeding, drum brake adjustment (rear).
Chassis And Bodywork Service:
Frame inspection, body panel removal and installation, seat maintenance, exhaust system inspection and repair, wheel bearing service.
Maintenance Procedures:
Regular scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, chain lubrication/adjustment), fluid level checks, tire pressure checks, brake adjustments, battery charging.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for virtually all parts of the motorcycle.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic charts and flowcharts to identify and resolve common problems related to engine performance, electrical issues, and drivability.
Technical Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, and timing settings.
Depth Of Coverage:
Expert level; covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical system diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Four-stroke, Inline-4 cylinder, DOHC, Air-cooled
Bore X Stroke:
60.0 mm x 66.0 mm (typical)
Compression Ratio:
Typically 8.5:1 or 9.0:1 depending on variant
Horsepower Output:
Approximately 70-75 hp @ 8,000-8,500 rpm (variant dependent)
Torque Output:
Approximately 60-63 Nm (44-46 ft-lbs) @ 6,500-7,000 rpm (variant dependent)
Carburetor Type:
Constant Velocity (CV) carburetors, typically Mikuni VM or similar, 26-29mm diameter, 2-4 carburetors
Fuel Capacity:
Approximately 18-20 liters (4.7-5.3 US gallons)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.4 liters (3.6 US quarts) with filter change
Ignition System:
CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition) or points-based ignition system with dual ignition coils.
Safety Standards Era:
Reflects safety standards of the late 1970s/early 1980s; no modern electronic safety systems.
Braking System:
Front: Single disc brake with dual-piston caliper. Rear: Drum brake (most models) or disc brake (later/specific variants). Disc brake specifications and fluid types are critical.
Lighting:
Headlight, taillight, brake light, turn signals.
Frame Construction:
Steel tube frame, designed for stability and handling.
Infotainment Features:
No modern infotainment systems. Instrumentation typically includes speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, and indicator lights for turn signals, high beam, oil pressure, and neutral.
Driver Assistance Systems:
None. Basic rider aids are limited to the braking system and chassis stability.
Connectivity Features:
None.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 km (2,000-3,000 miles) or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 10,000-15,000 km (6,000-9,000 miles).
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 10,000-12,000 km (6,000-7,500 miles).
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Every 500-1,000 km (300-600 miles) or after washing/rain.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 or 20W-50 motorcycle-specific oil, API SF or SG classification. Specific viscosity may vary with ambient temperature. Check manual for precise recommendations.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for specific caliper/master cylinder requirements).
Fork Oil Type:
Typically SAE 10W motorcycle fork oil. Capacity and specific type detailed in manual.
Carburetor Issues:
CV carburetors can become sticky or clogged with age, leading to poor idle, hesitation, or fuel delivery problems. Synchronization is key.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses, corroded connectors, and failing rectifiers/regulators can cause charging issues or intermittent electrical failures.
Engine Wear:
High mileage engines may experience worn valve guides, piston rings, or cam chain wear, leading to oil consumption or noise.
Clutch Drag:
Clutch plates can wear, or adjustment issues can lead to clutch drag or slipping.
Suspension Wear:
Fork seals can leak, and rear shock absorbers may lose damping over time.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki has a long history of performance motorcycles, often pushing boundaries with engine technology and speed.
Kz750 Development:
Evolved from earlier KZ650 models, aiming to provide more power and refinement for the growing mid-capacity motorcycle market. The KZ750 platform was versatile, leading to various sub-models.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Japan
Popularity:
The KZ750 was a popular model, offering a good balance of performance, reliability, and styling for its time, making it a staple for many riders.
Industry Impact:
The KZ750 range was a significant competitor in the 750cc motorcycle class during its production run, recognized for its strong inline-four performance and reliability.
Contemporary Reviews:
Generally received positive reviews for its engine smoothness, power, and handling characteristics for the period.
Factory Certification:
The manual itself is a reproduction of the official Kawasaki factory service documentation, representing the highest standard of technical accuracy for the period.
