Sport Tourers
1981Kawasaki GPZ 550
19 fields on record
The 1981 Kawasaki GPZ 550 is a lightweight sport-touring machine ideal for novice riders and commuters seeking affordable performance. Its air-cooled 553cc inline-four engine delivers smooth, tractable power with excellent fuel efficiency, while the manageable weight and nimble handling make it accessible yet engaging for everyday riding and weekend adventures.
- Capacity
- 553.0 ccm
- Engine
- In-line four
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Wet weight
- 216.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 58.0 HP (42.7 kW) @ 9000 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- Best for mixed sport-touring duty, weekend twisty-road rides, and general road use rather than dedicated track or long-haul touring.
- Built for
- A classic 1980s-90s inline-four with smooth, linear power delivery and a sporty yet balanced chassis feel.
- Not ideal for
- Not ideal for riders seeking modern performance, off-road capability, or heavy long-distance touring comfort.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 553.0 ccm
- Power
- 58.0 HP (42.7 kW) @ 9000 RPM
- Engine type
- In-line four
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2685 HP/kg
- Bore x stroke
- 58.0 x 52.4 mm
- Compression
- 10.0:1
- Cooling system
- Air
- Valves per cylinder
- 2
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Chain
Performance
- Top speed
- 194.0 km/h (120.5 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Single disc
- Front tyre
- 3.25-19
- Rear tyre
- 3.75-18
Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.
What changed, year to year
Differences highlighted| Specification | 1981 | 1983 | 1986 | 1988 | 1990 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 553 cc | 553 cc | 553 cc | 553 cc | 553 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 18 L | 18 L | 18 L | 18 L | 18 L |
Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.
Rider Reviews
Common questions
What is the engine size of the Kawasaki GPZ 550?
The 1981 Kawasaki GPZ 550 has a Capacity of 553.0 ccm (33.75 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki GPZ 550 have?
The 1981 Kawasaki GPZ 550 has a Power of 58.0 HP (42.7 kW) @ 9000 RPM.
How many gears does the Kawasaki GPZ 550 have?
The 1981 Kawasaki GPZ 550 has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
How much does the Kawasaki GPZ 550 weigh?
The 1981 Kawasaki GPZ 550 has a Wet weight of 216.0 kg (476.2 pounds).
Shop this bike
Affiliate linksWe may earn a commission from qualifying eBay or Amazon purchases made through these links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Please log in or register if you'd like to leave a comment.