Cruisers
1981Kawasaki Z550 LTD
19 fields on record
The 1981 Kawasaki Z 550 LTD is a mid-sized classic cruiser that appeals to riders seeking accessible performance and comfortable everyday riding. Its air-cooled 553cc inline-four engine delivers smooth 50 horsepower with excellent fuel efficiency, while the lightweight 211kg frame ensures agile handling. Known for reliability and versatility, it remains a popular choice for both commuting and casual weekend riding.
- Capacity
- 553.0 ccm
- Engine
- In-line four, four-stroke
- Gearbox
- 6-speed
- Wet weight
- 211.0 kg
- Seat height
- Not on record
Know it? Add it → - Power
- 50.0 HP (36.8 kW) @ 8500 RPM
How it rides
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested- Best for
- It's best suited for cruiser-style boulevard riding and casual weekend rides rather than aggressive sport riding.
- Built for
- The air-cooled DOHC inline-four with 6-speed gearbox gives a smooth, revvy but modest power delivery typical of early-80s Japanese customs.
- Not ideal for
- It's not a good fit for riders seeking highway touring comfort, off-road capability, or modern sportbike-level speed and cornering precision.
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
- 50.0 HP (36.8 kW) @ 8500 RPM
- Engine type
- In-line four, four-stroke
- Power/weight ratio
- 0.2370 HP/kg (wet)
- Bore x stroke
- 58.0 x 52.4 mm
- Compression
- 9.5:1
- 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
- 178.0 km/h (110.6 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Brakes & wheels
- Front brakes
- Dual disc
- Rear brakes
- Expanding brake
- Front tyre
- 3.25-19
- Rear tyre
- 130/90-16
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 | 1980 | 1981 | 1982 | 1983 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capacity | 553 cc | 553 cc | 553 cc | 553 cc |
| Fuel capacity | 13 L | 13 L | 13 L | 13 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 Z550 LTD?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z550 LTD has a Capacity of 553.0 ccm (33.75 cubic inches).
What engine power does the Kawasaki Z550 LTD have?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z550 LTD has a Power of 50.0 HP (36.8 kW) @ 8500 RPM.
How many gears does the Kawasaki Z550 LTD have?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z550 LTD has a Gearbox of 6-speed.
How much does the Kawasaki Z550 LTD weigh?
The 1981 Kawasaki Z550 LTD has a Wet weight of 211.0 kg (465.2 pounds).
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