Cruisers
1988Kawasaki ZL 600
19 fields on record
The 1988 Kawasaki ZL 600 is a middleweight cruiser that appeals to riders seeking affordable, accessible motorcycle ownership with classic styling. Its 592cc liquid-cooled four-cylinder engine delivers smooth, manageable power ideal for commuting and weekend cruising. Known for reliability and shaft-drive dependability, it remains a practical choice for new and budget-conscious riders.
- Capacity
- 592.0 ccm
- Engine
- In-line four, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Wet weight
- 209.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 74.0 HP (54.4 kW) @ 10500 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- A muscular Japanese cruiser that blends inline-four performance with custom styling for relaxed but spirited street riding.
- Built for
- An eager, free-spinning inline-four wrapped in cruiser bodywork, offering more top-end punch and revs than a typical V-twin cruiser.
- Not ideal for
- Not a fit for riders seeking off-road capability or long-distance touring comfort with wind protection and luggage capacity.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
Engine
- Capacity
- 592.0 ccm
- Power
- 74.0 HP (54.4 kW) @ 10500 RPM
- Engine type
- In-line four, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.3541 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 60.0 x 52.4 mm
- Compression
- 11.0:1
- Cooling system
- Liquid
- Valves per cylinder
- 4
- Torque
- Not on record - add it
Transmission
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Transmission type
- Manual
- Final drive
- Shaft
Performance
- Top speed
- 192.0 km/h (119.3 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Single disc
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake
- Front tyre
- 100/90-18
- Rear tyre
- 150/80-15
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 | 1986 | 1987 | 1988 | 1989 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 592 cc | 592 cc | 592 cc | 592 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 12 L | 12 L | 12 L | 12 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 ZL 600?
The 1988 Kawasaki ZL 600 has a Capacity of 592.0 ccm (36.13 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki ZL 600 have?
The 1988 Kawasaki ZL 600 has a Power of 74.0 HP (54.4 kW) @ 10500 RPM.
How many gears does the Kawasaki ZL 600 have?
The 1988 Kawasaki ZL 600 has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
How much does the Kawasaki ZL 600 weigh?
The 1988 Kawasaki ZL 600 has a Wet weight of 209.0 kg (460.8 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.