Segment:
Sport Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Long-distance touring riders, commuters seeking comfort and performance.
Key Competitors:
Honda ST1100 Pan European, BMW K1100LT, Yamaha FJ1200.
Defining Characteristics:
Shaft drive, large fairing for weather protection, comfortable ergonomics, powerful inline-four engine.
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for maintaining and repairing the reliable ZG1000 Concours, enabling DIY service and extending the life of a classic sport-tourer.
Engine:
Detailed engine overhaul, tuning, performance diagnostics, component replacement (pistons, rings, valves, crankshaft, camshafts).
Fuel System:
Carburetor adjustment and rebuilding, fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter replacement.
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, coolant flow, flushing, and replacement.
Ignition System:
Spark plugs, ignition coils, CDI unit, timing adjustment.
Transmission:
Clutch operation, gear shift mechanism, transmission disassembly and reassembly, lubrication.
Drivetrain:
Shaft drive system, universal joints, final drive housing, lubrication.
Brakes:
Brake caliper overhaul, master cylinder, brake fluid replacement and bleeding, disc and pad inspection/replacement.
Suspension:
Front fork servicing (oil change, seal replacement), rear shock absorber inspection, linkage maintenance.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), lighting, starter motor, fuses.
Frame And Bodywork:
Fairing removal/installation, chassis inspection, seat, fuel tank, body panel repairs.
Wheels And Tires:
Wheel bearing inspection/replacement, tire inspection, rim maintenance.
Maintenance:
Regular scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, chain/shaft adjustment, brake checks, valve clearance checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based fault finding.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, reassembly, and adjustment.
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures.
Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, resistance values, electrical schematics.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical system diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, inline-four cylinder
Displacement:
997 cc (60.8 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
74.0 x 58.0 mm (2.9 x 2.3 in)
Horsepower Estimated:
85-90 HP @ 8,000 RPM (approximate, depending on model year and emissions regulations)
Torque Estimated:
74-77 lb-ft @ 6,000 RPM (approximate)
Carburetor Type:
Four Keihin CVK32 constant velocity carburetors
Fuel Delivery:
Mechanical fuel pump
Oil Capacity W Filter:
Approx. 4.5 L (4.8 US qt)
Ignition Type:
Electronic ignition (CDI)
Cooling Medium:
Water-cooled
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is not typically rated by agencies like NHTSA or Euro NCAP)
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes, single rear disc brake. Optional ABS availability on later models (check specific year).
Tires Front:
120/70 ZR18 (typical fitment)
Tires Rear:
160/70 VR17 (typical fitment)
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, integrated front and rear turn signals.
Fairing Design:
Large integrated fairing and windscreen for rider protection from elements.
Oil Change:
Every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 12,000 km (7,500 miles)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or higher, JASO MA
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio)
Final Drive Oil Type:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil
Common Wear Items:
Clutch plates, brake pads, fork seals, regulator/rectifier, starter clutch.
Charging System Weakness:
Regulator/rectifier failure can lead to charging issues; often upgraded to aftermarket units.
Fairing Vibration:
Some owners report minor fairing vibration at certain RPMs.
Kawasaki Legacy:
Kawasaki has a long-standing reputation for producing powerful and reliable motorcycles, particularly in the sport and touring segments.
Zg1000 Introduction:
The ZG1000 Concours was introduced in 1986 as a 1986 model year, and the 1989-2000 period represents a significant and stable era for this model's development.
Key Updates 1989-2000:
Minor cosmetic updates, potential minor internal engine revisions, and improvements to suspension and braking systems across these model years.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Discontinuation:
The original ZG1000 Concours was eventually replaced by the 1400GTR Concours.