2008Kawasaki ZZR600

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The 2008 Kawasaki ZZR600 is a lightweight sport bike ideal for novice and intermediate riders seeking affordable thrills. Its 599cc inline-four engine delivers accessible performance while the nimble handling and manageable power make it perfect for track days and spirited road riding. Known for reliability and value, the ZZR600 remains a popular entry-level sportbike.

Capacity: 599.0 ccm
Engine: In-line four, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 198.0 kg
Seat height: 780 mm
Power: 98.0 HP (73.1 kW)

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How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail10%

Cornering78%

City riding60%

Daily riding62%

Touring52%

Two-up55%

Track65%

Best for: Designed as a sport-touring oriented middleweight, blending inline-four sporty performance with a bit more comfort and practicality than a full-race supersport.
Built for: A responsive, carbureted inline-four sportbike that rewards revs with smooth power delivery and a lively, engaging feel through corners.
Not ideal for: Not a good fit for riders seeking off-road capability or those wanting a relaxed, upright cruiser-style riding position.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 780mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2008 Kawasaki ZZR600, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 599.0 ccm
Power: 98.0 HP (73.1 kW)
EPA Certificate No.: 8KAXC.599AAD-008
EPA CO Emissions: 8.0 CO g/km
Engine type: In-line four, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.4949 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 66.0 x 43.8 mm
Compression: 12.8:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Ignition: Digital
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Valves per cylinder: 4
Torque: Not on record - add it

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1400 mm
Overall length: 2029 mm
Overall width: 729 mm
Overall height: 1176 mm
Seat height: 780 mm
Dry weight: 198.0 kg
Wet weight: 222.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 18.20 litres
Ground clearance: 145 mm

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Aluminum perimeter design
Front suspension: 46mm Cartridge Front Fork, fully adjustable / 4.7 in.
Rear suspension: UNI-TRAK® rear linkage, 20-way compression and rebound damping, ride height adjustment / 5.3 in.
Front wheel travel: 120 mm
Rear wheel travel: 130 mm
Rake (fork angle): 23.5°