🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Kawasaki

Model:

KZ305

Year:

1982

Sub Model:

CSR (Custom Sport Ride)

Engine Code:

KZ305-A

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Kawasaki KZ305, particularly the CSR variant, was positioned as an accessible and stylish entry-level to mid-range motorcycle in the early 1980s, appealing to riders seeking a blend of performance, reliability, and cruiser-inspired styling. It competed in a segment with bikes like the Honda CB550, Yamaha XS650, and Suzuki GS650.

Target Audience:

New riders, experienced riders seeking a reliable and easy-to-maintain motorcycle, cafe racer and custom builders.

Competitive Analysis:

The KZ305 offered a parallel-twin engine, a design favored for its simplicity and character, differentiating it from some inline-fours in the market. Its cruiser styling with swept-back handlebars and a comfortable saddle made it a popular choice for relaxed riding.

Key Features:

Parallel-twin engine, reliable CDI ignition, comfortable riding position, classic styling, manageable performance for its class.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Engine, Fuel System, Ignition System, Electrical System, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Frame, Bodywork, Troubleshooting, Specifications

Page Count:

Estimated 300-350 pages

Manual Type:

Official Factory Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Frame, Chassis, Suspension, Brakes, Electrical, Engine, Fuel, Exhaust

Procedures Included:

Carburetor tuning, ignition timing, valve adjustment, fork overhaul, brake caliper service.

Technical Depth:

Detailed specifications, diagrams, and step-by-step procedures for repairs and maintenance.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF, Searchable Text

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

Digital Download (PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Air-cooled, four-stroke, parallel-twin

Displacement:

304 cc

Bore X Stroke:

60.0 mm x 54.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.5:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 2 valves per cylinder

Engine Cooling:

Air-cooled

Starter System:

Electric Starter

Ignition System:

CDI (Capacitor Discharge Ignition)

Cylinder Arrangement:

Parallel-twin

Horsepower:

Approx. 26 hp @ 8,000 RPM (advertised)

Torque:

Approx. 18.4 lb-ft @ 6,500 RPM (advertised)

Top Speed:

Approx. 90-95 mph (rider dependent)

Carburetor:

Dual Keihin constant velocity (CV) carburetors, 26 mm

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

Fuel Capacity:

3.1 US gal (11.7 L)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed

Clutch Type:

Wet, multi-plate

Final Drive:

Chain Drive

Transmission Engagement:

Foot shifter

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios will be detailed within the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 85.0 in (2159 mm)

Width:

Approx. 32.0 in (813 mm)

Height:

Approx. 46.0 in (1168 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 56.3 in (1430 mm)

Ground Clearance:

Refer to manual

Seat Height:

Approx. 30.5 in (775 mm)

Front Tire Size:

3.50-18

Rear Tire Size:

4.00-17

Dry Weight:

Approx. 359 lbs (163 kg)

Wet Weight:

Approx. 381 lbs (173 kg)

Load Capacity:

Refer to manual

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

N/A (Motorcycles of this era generally did not undergo standardized crash testing as passenger vehicles do today.)

Active Features:

Disc front brake, Drum rear brake, Responsive handling characteristics.

Front Brake Type:

Single Disc with Hydraulic Actuation

Rear Brake Type:

Drum Brake with Mechanical Actuation

Passive Features:

Sturdy frame construction, effective suspension damping.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic analog instrumentation: speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, indicator lights for turn signals, high beam, neutral, oil pressure. No modern infotainment systems present.

Driver Assistance Features:

None. This motorcycle relies on rider input and standard mechanical systems.

Connectivity:

No connectivity features. This is a purely mechanical and electrical system.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

The manual will detail specific intervals for: Oil Changes (e.g., every 3,000 miles or 6 months), Chain Lubrication and Adjustment (e.g., every 500-1,000 miles), Air Filter Cleaning/Replacement (e.g., every 6,000-12,000 miles), Spark Plug Replacement (e.g., every 10,000-15,000 miles), Valve Clearance Checks (e.g., every 12,000-20,000 miles), Brake Fluid Flush (e.g., every 2 years). Exact intervals are model-specific and found in the manual.

Chain Slack Spec:

Refer to manual (typically 0.8-1.2 inches)

Spark Plug Gap:

Refer to manual (typically 0.7-0.8 mm)

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 10W-40 motorcycle oil (API SG or higher recommended). Specific viscosity may vary based on climate.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 2.0 US quarts (1.9 L) with filter change.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Fork Oil Type:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity (typically around SAE 10W).

Final Drive Oil Type:

N/A (Chain drive requires lubrication, not oil)

Coolant Type:

N/A (Air-cooled engine)

Known Issues:

Common issues for motorcycles of this era, and potentially the KZ305, include carburetor gumming due to fuel degradation, aging electrical components (especially wiring insulation and connectors), starter clutch wear, and potential fork seal leaks. The manual provides diagnostic procedures for these.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Kawasaki Heavy Industries has a long and distinguished history in motorcycle manufacturing, known for producing powerful, innovative, and reliable machines across various segments.

Model Evolution:

The KZ305 was part of Kawasaki's KZ series, which spanned a wide range of engine sizes and configurations. The 305cc parallel-twin was a popular engine size in the early 80s, offering a good balance of performance and economy. The CSR (Custom Sport Ride) variant focused on a more relaxed, cruiser-like riding posture and styling.

Model Variants:

KZ305-B (Standard), KZ305-CSR (Custom Sport Ride)

Production Years:

The KZ305 model line was produced through the mid-1980s. Specific production numbers are not readily available but it was a significant model for Kawasaki in its class.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Specific awards for the 1982 KZ305 CSR are not widely documented. However, Kawasaki motorcycles from this era were generally well-regarded for their build quality and performance in their respective classes.