Category:
Sport Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Motorcyclists seeking long-distance comfort, sportbike performance, and touring capability.
Key Competitors:
BMW R 1200 RT, Honda ST1300 Pan European, Yamaha FJR1300.
Design Philosophy:
Combines the power and handling of a sportbike with the comfort and luggage capacity of a touring machine.
Unique Selling Points:
Powerful inline-four engine, advanced aerodynamic fairing, comfortable ergonomics, shaft drive for low maintenance.
Engine Technology:
Dual Throttle Valves (K-TRIC) for improved throttle response and emissions control.
Engine:
Complete engine overhaul, disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling system, fuel system (injection, pumps, lines), exhaust system.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gear shifting mechanism, transmission case, gear inspection and replacement, final drive (shaft drive).
Chassis And Suspension:
Frame inspection, front fork (telescopic, USD) disassembly/assembly, rear shock absorber, swingarm, steering system (headset bearings).
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems, hydraulic lines, master cylinders, calipers, brake pads, disc inspection, ABS system (if applicable).
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), ignition system, starting system, lighting (headlight, taillight, indicators), instrument cluster, sensors, wiring diagrams, ECU.
Fuel And Emissions:
Fuel injection system (throttle bodies, injectors, sensors), evaporative emission control system, emissions data.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing removal and installation, seat removal, fuel tank, body panel repairs, aerodynamics.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, coolant checks, chain/shaft drive maintenance, brake fluid replacement, spark plug replacement, air filter service.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, braking issues, starting problems, and general drivability.
Repair And Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Adjustments:
Throttle cable adjustment, clutch lever adjustment, suspension adjustments, idle speed adjustment.
Technical Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Special Tools:
References specific Kawasaki special service tools with illustrations and part numbers where applicable.
Depth:
Comprehensive, bumper-to-bumper coverage suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Detail Level:
Includes detailed pictorial diagrams, exploded views, step-by-step instructions, and special tool references.
Diagrams:
Rich in detailed illustrations, exploded diagrams, drawings, and photographs.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve per cylinder inline-four
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 x 61.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.7:1
Horsepower:
Approx. 155 hp @ 8,800 rpm (specifications may vary slightly by market/region)
Torque:
Approx. 136 Nm (100 lb-ft) @ 6,000 rpm (specifications may vary slightly by market/region)
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel Injection, Dual Throttle Valves
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, minimum 91 octane
Ignition System:
Digital CDI with electronic advance
Crash Test Ratings:
N/A for motorcycles, focus on design safety features.
Braking System:
Linked-Law (K-LEPS) ABS standard on many models, providing synchronized braking and anti-lock functionality.
Traction Control:
No explicit traction control system mentioned for these years, focus is on rider input and ABS.
Lighting:
Large, integrated fairing with good aerodynamic properties for rider protection and visibility.
Ergonomics:
Comfort-oriented riding position designed for long-distance touring.
Instrument Cluster:
Digital LCD displays, analog tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, gear indicator, clock, trip meters, and warning lights.
Audio System:
Optional accessory audio systems were available, but not standard on all models.
ABS:
Linked-Law (K-LEPS) Anti-lock Braking System available on many configurations.
Diagnostic Ports:
Includes diagnostic connectors for electronic fault code reading.
Cruise Control:
Available on some later models in the generation.
Adjustable Windscreen:
Manually adjustable windscreen for rider comfort and wind protection.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to periodic maintenance chart in manual. Typically every 6,000 miles (10,000 km) or 12 months.
Valve Clearance Check:
Refer to manual. Typically around 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40, API SG or SH or SJ or SL, JASO MA compliant (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity).
Coolant Type:
Permanent type antifreeze, coolant mixture of 50% ethylene glycol and 50% deionized water (refer to manual for specific type and capacity).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific type and bleeding procedures).
Common Problems:
Stator failures (charging system), occasional clutch issues, rear shock absorber wear on high-mileage units. Thermal expansion of exhaust baffles can cause rattles.
Maintenance Tips:
Regularly inspect the charging system, maintain proper tire pressure, and lubricate the shaft drive splines as per service intervals.
Performance Degradation:
Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent performance degradation, especially concerning the fuel injection and ignition systems.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. has a long-standing reputation for producing powerful and innovative motorcycles, from sportbikes to cruisers and off-road machines.
Predecessor:
Shares lineage with previous Kawasaki touring and sport-touring models, but the 1400 GTR (Concours 14 in North America) marked a significant advancement.
Key Updates:
Introduced with a powerful 1352cc engine, monocoque frame, and shaft drive. Later revisions focused on refinement, styling, and electronics.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primary production)
