Segment:
Hyperbike / Superbike
Performance Focus:
High-performance sport touring and outright speed.
Key Competitors Era:
Suzuki Hayabusa, Honda CBR1100XX Blackbird, Yamaha YZF-R1 (earlier models).
Engine Configuration:
Inline-four, liquid-cooled, DOHC.
Aerodynamics:
Advanced aerodynamic fairings for high-speed stability.
Performance Headline:
One of the fastest production motorcycles of its time.
Engine:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, inspection, and repair, including top-end (cylinder head, valves, camshafts), bottom-end (crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods), lubrication system, cooling system.
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system diagnostics, injector removal/installation, throttle body maintenance, fuel pump and regulator inspection.
Ignition System:
Ignition coil testing, spark plug specifications, ECU diagnostics.
Transmission:
Clutch inspection and replacement, gearbox disassembly and assembly, gear selection mechanism.
Chassis And Frame:
Frame inspection, steering head bearing maintenance, swingarm and linkage service.
Suspension Front:
Front fork disassembly, seal replacement, oil level and viscosity specifications, damping adjustments.
Brakes Front:
Brake caliper overhaul, brake pad replacement, disc inspection, hydraulic system bleeding, master cylinder service.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery maintenance, charging system (alternator/stator, rectifier/regulator), starter motor, lighting system, instrument cluster.
Bodywork And Fairings:
Fairing removal and installation, seat, fuel tank, and fender service.
Rear Suspension:
Rear shock absorber service, linkage bearing inspection and lubrication, spring pre-load and damping adjustments.
Rear Brakes:
Rear brake caliper, pad, and disc service, hydraulic system maintenance.
Maintenance Procedures:
Routine inspections, lubrication points, filter replacement, fluid changes, chain adjustment.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common symptoms, electrical fault finding, engine performance issues.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, reassembly, and installation.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed breakdown and reassembly of all major and minor components.
Inspection Checks:
Specific checks for wear, damage, and proper function of various parts.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.
Specifications Charts:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, etc.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 16-valve Inline-four
Bore X Stroke:
81.0 x 58.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
12.2:1
Horsepower Claimed:
Approximately 178 hp (133 kW) @ 9500 rpm (wheel horsepower may vary)
Torque Claimed:
Approximately 96 lb-ft (130 Nm) @ 7000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Fuel injection with four 44mm throttle bodies
Fuel Type:
Unleaded premium gasoline
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 API SG or SH or SJ with JASO MA rating recommended
Oil Capacity:
4.7 L (with filter change)
Coolant Type:
Kawasaki coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with distilled water)
Safety Ratings:
N/A (Motorcycle safety is typically assessed by rider skill and adherence to regulations, not standardized crash ratings like cars).
Braking System:
Dual front 320mm petal discs with 4-piston calipers, single rear 250mm petal disc with 2-piston caliper.
Optional ABS:
Available on some variants, typically designated by 'ABS' in the model name.
Lighting:
Dual multi-reflector headlights, LED taillight.
Instrument Cluster:
Digital speedometer, analog tachometer, LCD multi-function display including odometer, trip meter, clock, coolant temperature, fuel gauge, and indicator lights.
ABS Availability:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on select models.
Connectivity Features:
N/A (Focus is on mechanical and electrical systems, no integrated smartphone connectivity typical of modern motorcycles).
First Service:
1000 km (600 miles) or 1 month
Regular Maintenance Interval:
Every 6000 km (3700 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Valve Clearance Check:
Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with distilled water (50/50 mix recommended)
Potential Issues:
While generally reliable, potential issues can include stator failure (a common issue on many high-performance bikes of this era), regulator/rectifier problems, and clutch wear under heavy use. Early models (A/B) had some overheating concerns addressed in the C model.
Recall Information:
Refer to official Kawasaki recall notices for any applicable campaigns for the 2004 model year.
Manufacturer:
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Motorcycle & Engine Company.
Generation Changes 2004:
The 2004 model (ZX1200-C4) is part of the second generation, which saw significant revisions from the original A/B models, including chassis updates, engine tuning for improved mid-range, and revised aerodynamics. Key changes for the C model compared to A/B include a lighter monocoque frame, fuel injection, and a more manageable power delivery.
Production Period:
2000-2006
