Market Position:
The Kawasaki KZ750 Four was positioned as a versatile, mid-size motorcycle, appealing to riders seeking a balance of performance, comfort, and reliability in the late 1970s and 1980s. It competed with models from Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki in the popular 'Universal Japanese Motorcycle' (UJM) segment, offering a smooth inline-four experience.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with models like the Honda CB750F/CB750K, Yamaha XS750, and Suzuki GS750. The KZ750 Four was often praised for its refined engine character and handling for its class.
Key Features:
Smooth inline-four engine, accessible performance, comfortable riding position, often shaft drive (depending on specific variant), and reliable build quality characteristic of Kawasaki's KZ series.
Engine:
Complete engine teardown, assembly, tuning, troubleshooting, piston, rings, crankshaft, camshaft, valve train, lubrication system, cooling system (air-cooled).
Fuel System:
Carburetor overhaul and adjustment (e.g., Mikuni VM series), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter.
Transmission:
Gearbox inspection, repair, clutch operation, shift linkage, lubrication.
Electrical System:
Ignition system (points, CDI), charging system (alternator, regulator/rectifier), starter motor, lighting, wiring diagrams, fuses, battery maintenance.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), hydraulic lines, brake fluid, caliper overhaul, master cylinder.
Suspension:
Front fork (telescopic) overhaul, rear shock absorber replacement/adjustment, swingarm inspection, bearings.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearings, wheel bearings, general chassis maintenance.
Bodywork And Trim:
Body panel removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, fenders, handlebars, controls.
Maintenance:
Regular service checks, oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustment, spark plug service, brake adjustments, battery checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common running issues, electrical faults, starting problems, braking issues.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair and replacement across all systems.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for complete engine, carburetor, and suspension component overhauls.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and advanced troubleshooting.
Engine Type:
DOHC Inline-4 Cylinder, Air-Cooled
Displacement:
745 cc (approximately)
Bore X Stroke:
66.0 mm x 54.0 mm (typical)
Compression Ratio:
9.3:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approximately 70-75 HP @ 8,000-8,500 RPM (variant dependent)
Torque:
Approximately 43-45 lb-ft @ 6,500-7,000 RPM (variant dependent)
Carburetion:
Four Mikuni VM Series Carburetors (e.g., VM26SS or similar)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
Approximately 4.0 - 4.5 US gallons (15-17 Liters), variant dependent.
Overall Length:
Approximately 2200-2300 mm (86-90 inches), variant dependent.
Overall Width:
Approximately 800-900 mm (31-35 inches), variant dependent.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 1450-1500 mm (57-59 inches), variant dependent.
Dry Weight:
Approximately 200-220 kg (440-485 lbs), variant dependent.
Wet Weight:
Approximately 220-240 kg (485-530 lbs), variant dependent.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Cleaning:
Every 3,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 6,000-8,000 miles.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 6,000-8,000 miles or annually.
Chain Lubrication Adjustment:
Every 500-750 miles and after washing or riding in the rain.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF, SAE 10W-40 motorcycle specific oil.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 3.0 - 3.5 Liters (3.2-3.7 Quarts) with filter change, variant dependent.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid.
Transmission Oil Type:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (if separate gearbox oil is used, often shared with engine oil for chain drive models).
Fork Oil Type:
SAE 10W or 15W suspension fluid, type and quantity specified in manual.
Known Issues:
Carburetor synchronization and jetting issues, potential for cam chain tensioner wear, ignition coil failures, stator output degradation, charging system regulator issues, steering head bearing adjustment/wear.
Brand Heritage:
Kawasaki has a long-standing reputation for producing high-performance and reliable motorcycles, particularly known for its powerful engines and innovative designs since the 1960s.
Model Evolution:
The KZ750 Four was part of Kawasaki's highly successful KZ lineup, which evolved from earlier models. It represented a step up in refinement and power over smaller displacement bikes, offering a capable all-around performer. Successive models in the 750cc class saw technological advancements like fuel injection and more sophisticated suspension.
Production Years:
1980-1988 (for the KZ750 Four designation, specific sub-models and updates occurred within this range).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily Japan
