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Naked Motorcycles

1983Kawasaki Z 1000 J

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The 1983 Kawasaki Z1000 J is a powerful touring bike suited for riders seeking authentic superbike performance with practical versatility. Its air-cooled 998cc inline-four produces 98 horsepower, delivering strong acceleration and highway capability. Known for combining classic Japanese engineering with reliable touring credentials, it appeals to enthusiasts valuing straightforward power and timeless design.

Capacity
998.0 ccm
Engine
In-line four
Gearbox
5-speed
Wet weight
253.0 kg
Seat height
Not on record
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Power
98.0 HP (72.1 kW) @ 8500 RPM
Other years 1981 1982 1983

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 72Agility 58Comfort 65Off-road 10Touring 62Road manners 78
Off-road & trail10%
Cornering55%
City riding55%
Daily riding60%
Touring62%
Two-up60%
Track45%
Best for
A muscular early-80s UJM sport-tourer built for fast open-road cruising and confident overtaking rather than tight technical work.
Built for
Raw, torquey, and mechanical in feel, with a classic four-cylinder growl and analog handling that feels direct but demands respect.
Not ideal for
Not a good fit for new riders, those seeking nimble city commuting, or anyone wanting off-road capability.

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

Full specifications

Engine
Capacity
998.0 ccm
Power
98.0 HP (72.1 kW) @ 8500 RPM
Engine type
In-line four
Power/weight ratio
0.3874 HP/kg (wet)
Bore x stroke
69.4 x 66.0 mm
Compression
9.2:1
Cooling system
Air
Valves per cylinder
2
Torque
Not on record - add it
Transmission
Gearbox
5-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Chain
Performance
Top speed
211.0 km/h (131.1 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Wet weight
253.0 kg
Fuel capacity
21.00 litres
Seat height
Not on record - add it
Dry weight
Not on record - add it
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Dual disc
Rear brakes
Single disc
Front tyre
3.25-19
Rear tyre
4.25-18

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 198119821983
Capacity 998 cc 998 cc 998 cc
Fuel capacity 21 L 21 L 21 L

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

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Common questions

What is the engine size of the Kawasaki Z 1000 J?

The 1983 Kawasaki Z 1000 J has a Capacity of 998.0 ccm (60.90 cubic inches).

What engine power does the Kawasaki Z 1000 J have?

The 1983 Kawasaki Z 1000 J has a Power of 98.0 HP (72.1 kW) @ 8500 RPM.

How many gears does the Kawasaki Z 1000 J have?

The 1983 Kawasaki Z 1000 J has a Gearbox of 5-speed.

How much does the Kawasaki Z 1000 J weigh?

The 1983 Kawasaki Z 1000 J has a Wet weight of 253.0 kg (557.8 pounds).

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