Model Code:
ZRX1200S (Specific chassis codes not detailed in provided info, but typically would relate to frame numbers)
Generation:
First Generation
Production Years Covered:
2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
Market Position:
The Kawasaki ZRX1200S was positioned as a premium sport-touring motorcycle, appealing to riders who valued a blend of strong performance, comfortable ergonomics for longer distances, and classic styling reminiscent of the '70s and '80s superbikes.
Competitors:
Competed against other large-displacement inline-four sport-touring or naked bikes of its era, such as the Suzuki GSX1200 Inazuma (though less common globally), Honda CB1100, and to some extent, models like the Yamaha FJR1300 or Kawasaki's own GTR1000 in the touring segment.
Key Features:
Powerful 1164cc inline-four engine, distinctive retro styling with a bikini fairing, comfortable riding position, robust chassis, and reliable Japanese engineering.
Styling:
Distinctive 'muscle bike' styling with a large displacement inline-four, often featuring a bikini fairing for aerodynamic assistance and a classic, upright riding posture.
Engine Systems:
Engine disassembly, assembly, tuning, lubrication, cooling, ignition, fuel delivery, exhaust.
Chassis Systems:
Frame, suspension (front forks, rear shock absorber), steering, wheels, brakes (front and rear), electrical system (wiring diagrams, components).
Transmission And Drivetrain:
Clutch operation, gearbox inspection and repair, final drive (chain and sprockets).
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, hoses, thermostat, coolant flow, and maintenance.
Ignition System:
Ignition timing, spark plugs, ignition coils, CDI unit, and troubleshooting.
Bodywork And Trim:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, body panels.
Maintenance:
Regular maintenance schedules, fluid checks and changes, filter replacement, chain adjustment.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common problems, fault finding charts.
Repair And Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Adjustments:
Carburetor synchronization, valve clearance adjustment, brake lever and pedal adjustments, suspension settings.
Component Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for engine internal component rebuilds, transmission overhauls, carburetor overhauls, and suspension component servicing.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Includes wiring diagrams, troubleshooting for electrical faults, and testing procedures for electrical components.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from routine maintenance to full engine and chassis rebuilds, including specialized tool references and torque specifications.
Special Tool References:
Includes reference to specific Kawasaki special service tools required for certain repair and adjustment operations, often depicted in use.
Torque Specifications:
Comprehensive torque specifications for all critical fasteners during assembly and disassembly procedures.
Wear Limits:
Provides wear limits and allowable tolerances for critical engine and chassis components to ensure proper function and longevity.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, inline-four
Displacement:
1164 cc (71.0 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
77.0 mm x 63.0 mm
Horsepower:
Approximately 100-105 HP (at crankshaft, depending on market and specific tuning)
Torque:
Approximately 75-80 lb-ft (at crankshaft, depending on market and specific tuning)
Fuel System:
Carburetor (typically Keihin CVK36, 4x 36mm downdraft
Carburetor Details:
Four Keihin CVK36 carburetors, providing precise fuel metering for the large inline-four engine.
Lubrication System:
Wet sump
Length:
Approx. 2,180 mm (85.8 in)
Width:
Approx. 790 mm (31.1 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,220 mm (48.0 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,495 mm (58.9 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 244 kg (538 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 260 kg (573 lbs) (fully fueled)
Fuel Capacity:
20 Liters (5.3 US gal)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety ratings are not standardized in the same way as cars; emphasis is on rider skill and adherence to manual safety instructions.)
Brakes:
Dual 310mm discs with 4-piston calipers (front), Single 270mm disc with 2-piston caliper (rear)
Suspension:
Fully adjustable front forks (preload, compression, rebound), adjustable rear shock absorber (preload, rebound damping)
Lighting:
Halogen headlight, taillight, turn signals.
Infotainment System:
N/A (This model predates significant integrated infotainment systems in motorcycles. Features are functional rather than entertainment-based.)
Driver Assistance Features:
N/A (No electronic rider aids like ABS or traction control were standard on this model.)
Instrumentation:
Analog speedometer and tachometer, fuel gauge, odometer, trip meter, indicator lights for turn signals, high beam, neutral, oil pressure.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 6,000 km (3,700 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for precise details).
Valve Clearance Interval:
Typically every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months (refer to manual for precise details).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, JASO MA certified, SAE 10W-40 recommended. (Always refer to manual for exact specifications and brands).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.7 L (3.9 US qt) without filter change; Approx. 4.0 L (4.2 US qt) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Permanent type antifreeze coolant, 50/50 mixture with distilled water.
Fork Oil Type:
SAE 10W (refer to manual for specific grade and quantity per fork leg).
Gearbox Oil Type:
API GL-1 or GL-4 gear oil, SAE 80W-90 recommended.
Known Issues:
Potential for cam chain rattle on startup (often normal if brief), occasional carburetor synchronization issues requiring tuning, wear on fork seals, general maintenance items like brake pad wear, chain and sprocket wear. Clutch slave cylinder seals can sometimes weep. The manual would detail how to address these.
Brand Heritage:
Kawasaki has a long and storied history in motorcycle manufacturing, particularly known for its high-performance motorcycles, including the iconic Z-series lineage.
Model Evolution:
The ZRX1200S is an evolution of Kawasaki's ZRX line, which itself draws inspiration from the legendary Kawasaki Z1 of the 1970s. It offered a modern interpretation of classic sportbike styling and performance.
Production Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
