The Kawasaki GPZ 900 motorcycle is a sports touring bike

Restored Kawasaki GPZ900 like Tom Cruise

More than thirty years have passed since Tom Cruise appeared on the silver screen at the controls of an F14 Tomcat fighter jet in the cult classic Top Gun. But does anyone remember what motorcycle he rode in the film? We have the answer: the red and black Kawasaki GPZ900R.

Appearance

Stylish and proportional, this bike does not have any flair in its design. It would even be superfluous given the fact that this is a typical representative of the class. Like other sports tourists, the model differs from a simple sportbike in its dimensions. This is a long car, which makes it a great choice for traveling as a widow.

The windshield is typical. The shape reflects the sporty character of the Kawasaki GPZ 900. This is manifested in the fact that the glass is angular and low. The rims are typical for the sports and sports-touring class - alloy. The original red and black color scheme perfectly reflects the aggressive nature of this model.

In general, there is an angularity in the lines of the frame. This is a feature of such bikes from the eighties and nineties. And this approach to design is probably correct, because it completely fits into the aesthetic concept of a sporty, modern, and at the same time practical motorcycle.

Comfort

The bike is more convenient on country roads than in urban conditions. It is not very agile, large, and unlike some cruiser it does not have such stability at low speeds. However, you can get used to it.

Otherwise the car is comfortable. It's not particularly noisy, and there's enough space for the passenger to feel comfortable. The bike feels good on the road and handles well. It accelerates quickly, which will be convenient for those who know how to handle such equipment.

As for people who have previously only ridden road motorcycles, or, moreover, have not driven a bike at all, they definitely should not start with such a model, as well as with any other sport tourer or sportbike. This option will not only be inconvenient for them, but also dangerous.

First tests of Kawasaki Ninja H2R: at 357 km/h in Qatar!

These days in Qatar, on the MotoGP Losail International Circuit, perhaps the most anticipated and odious tests of the year are taking place - the official launch for the press of the “Green Monster”, Kawasaki Ninja H2 and Kawasaki Ninja H2R with a 300-horsepower turbocharged engine.

Presented at the 2014 Tokyo Motor Show, the prototype power unit, based on the 1000 cc inline-four ZX-10R, was accelerated using a supercharger of the original design to 200+ hp. for the road version, testers talk about a real 310 hp. during bench tests of the “track only” version of H2R. The motorcycle itself appeared in all its splendor six months later, in Cologne, at the INTERMOT-2014 exhibition: detailed photos of the Kawasaki Ninja H2R.

Test drive Kawasaki Ninja H2R: top speed 357 km/h

More videos from Kawasaki Ninja H2R tests in Qatar

Adam Child, MCN - about the Kawasaki Ninja H2: “The H2 handles no worse than the ZX-10R, only at the end of the same Losail International starting straight the speedometer exceeds 288 km/h. And that was just H2. Afterwards, I rode the H2R for about two hours...”

... and about the Ninja H2R: “In third and fourth gear the bike shoots into space, in terms of acceleration, the bike is simply incredible! But it also stops and handles - I assure you - much better than you might imagine. Traction control system, vital on a car that is capable of developing more than 300 hp. and cross the 350 km/h speed threshold, works very well.”

“I was riding the bike with a fairly low level of electronic intervention, but this only meant that I had to ride not exactly on the intended path - only a few inches off it, and when accelerating in three gears I felt a constant slipping of the rear wheel. Only in top gear did the slippage stop, or rather, slow down.”

The red zone on the speedometer is marked up to 15,000 rpm, and starts at 14,000 - this is the peak at which the Kawasaki turbocharged engine reaches maximum power. The supercharger impeller is directly driven by the crankshaft, so that the rotation speed of the engine and turbine is directly proportional: thanks to the planetary gear system, the shaft speed is multiplied by 9.2 times and reaches an incredible 130,000 rpm, while the engine whistles incredibly more than 200 liters of air flies in every second.

Test drive Kawasaki Ninja H2R

“...The engine comes to life at 2000 rpm, and at 8000 the turbine begins to whistle with all its might, pumping compressed air into the depths. At the same time, the “racing” H2R engine is capable of developing power up to 326 hp. - a figure that commands respect even from MotoGP engineers. I rode a prototype from MotoGP and I can say that the Ninja feels like riding a prototype. The H2 engine is out of this world, but it is homologated for public roads! Kawasaki Ninja H2R - 100% not for road riding."

It sounds and feels like a Grand Prix prototype, but goes even faster.

“It’s hard for me to imagine how this bike can be used in life. Maybe to set speed records? Don't know. We couldn't break the lap record in Losail. But 357 km/h - have you seen this figure?! "

Test drive Kawasaki Ninja H2R

“The tradition of installing a compressor on road bikes, so fashionable in the 80s, seems to be a new trend in the mid-10s of the 21st century.”

“326 hp seem true, but it is not easy to feel them due to the abundance of auxiliary electronics. True, Kawasaki prefers to joke about this topic: “Traction control? Ah, this is such a gadget. We don't use it!" - the factory test pilots say, it’s always funny.”

“H2 with “only” 200 hp. It turned out to be very easy to operate, thanks to the electronics.

Dimensions and weight

The dimensions here are classic. The Kawasaki GPZ 900 is no different in this regard from most other sports tourers.

Dimensions and weight fully satisfy the needs:

• length – 2200 mm;
• width – 750 mm;
• height – 1215 mm;
• wheelbase – 1495 mm;
• curb weight – 255 kg.

Thanks to these parameters, the model confidently stays on the road. At the same time, the car is not so heavy that it interferes with speed or maneuverability.

Brake system

The brake discs are large here. Their width is 6 mm and diameter is 300 mm. They are made of stainless steel.

Thus, the brake force will be very strong each time you apply them.

It often happens that even experienced riders find it difficult to discern which gear is currently in use while riding.

To prevent such situations, the digital display is installed in a large size.

It is able to instantly display all the most important information for the rider - speed and gear number.

The ZX-6R model has cylindrical airbox guides. They help ensure accurate spraying from the fuel injectors.

As a result, better fuel atomization improves combustion efficiency. Accordingly, the engine output will be greater.

Specifications

The filling will pleasantly please those who have long wanted to buy retro equipment, but were afraid of weak technical characteristics.

Nothing needs to be improved. The car looks good anyway. However, it is worth noting that this applies to newer versions of the model, while the older ones are more modest. These parameters are quite enough to use the bike on a flat track. It is not suitable for off-roading in any way, because it is not a motocross motorcycle.

Reviews

Reviews about Kawasaki GPZ900R:

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At the end of 1983, a version appeared with an increase to 908 cc. engine capacity - GPz900R. The chassis has not changed, only the engine has changed. In all likelihood, the idea of ​​the Japanese engineers was to build a “liter,” but American regulations forced them to first produce a 750 cc version, “especially for the track.” Therefore, the increased volume and 115 hp. did not require intervention in the suspension and frame of the motorcycle. The bike immediately became a bestseller all over the world straight from the factory. More than 70,000 nine hundred units have been sold since then. In Japan, the 86-94 models are still considered iconic. The motorcycle was delivered to Europe slightly trimmed to 100 hp. version (in accordance with the requirements of the laws of Germany, France, and a number of other countries where the power of large-capacity heavy bikes was limited).

The GPz 900 had the first fully balanced in-line engine with liquid cooling and 4 valves per cylinder DOHC16. An aluminum swingarm with a UNI-TRAK monoshock absorber, which has two (and in the racing version SBK three) settings, provided excellent grip both on the track and on the road. But the main feature of the 900 cc “toad” was the speed record: even in the factory configuration, the motorcycle reached a speed of 240 km/h (a small tuning squeezed all 270 out of the engine). From January 1984 to 1992, the “Bike of the Year” titles were earned by the GPz900R (and even the 750R a couple of times) by completely honest work. There are 8 of them in total - in Europe (three times), the USA (twice), Japan and other countries (sorry, I couldn’t find information about which ones except Japan).

I got this equipment from 1988. 900cc, 100 lashes, weight about 250 kg. Tell me, a lot of weight, not enough horses? The Japanese are smart people, they have made high-quality sports tourism. Although old, the model was produced until 1994... Low center of gravity, lack of sharp dips and pick-ups, steam-powered traction from the bottom, comfortable fit, good wind protection, anti-click system, decent brakes. The pros can be listed endlessly... This motorcycle has one minus, age... It's a shame they don't produce such equipment anymore...

Production

Production of the car began in 1984. At that time this bike was considered a breakthrough. It was produced for almost twenty years, and production ended in 2003. Moreover, this year’s bikes are distinguished by the inscription “Final Edition”. This is the earliest sports car that was released under this famous brand.

Until 1993, the GPZ 900 was sold as well as produced in Europe. Since 1998, it began to be produced only in Malaysia. It is worth noting that the production of the model lasted quite a long time, which is difficult to say about most cars of the late 20th - early 21st centuries.

Kawasaki Ninja H2 review

The differences in the gearboxes are only in the clutch, since both motorcycle models have the same gearbox. The compression of the H2 model is 8.5:1 and this figure is identical to that of the H2R model. The boost pressure in the version of the motorcycle intended for roads, according to Kawasaki themselves, is 20.5 psi, while the racing model is 35 psi (these figures were announced at the presentation of the motorcycle). However, exact information is not yet known. The turbine rotor has five blades and is capable of rotating at a speed of 1,300,000 revolutions at 14,000 engine speeds. The turbine produces 35 psi at its maximum.

And now we come to the most interesting part. The total weight of the iron horse Kawasaki Ninja H2 is approximately 235 kg, while in the USA its cost will start at 25 thousand dollars, and the full version will not be more than 30 thousand. The total length of the motorcycle is 2083 millimeters, and its seat height is 825 mm. This model is a single-seater and does not have space for a passenger. According to Kawasaki themselves, the riding position is similar to the Ninja ZX-10R, but more relaxed. Both models feature 15mm of rear thigh support.

The existing LCD display was stylized in a similar way to tachometers. On the dashboard you can see: odometer, speed indicator, total mileage and current mileage, temperature and fuel display, turbine and air temperature display, clock, lap time, and an economy mode indicator.

If we talk about the electronics present in the models, it includes a quick start system (KLCM), traction control (KTRC), steering damper, intelligent anti-lock brake system (KIBS), as well as an engine braking system (when the throttle is lowered, engine braking). In rain mode, power is reduced by 50%. The motorcycle is equipped with a special KYB AOS-II racing suspension, the same suspension is installed in its “brother”. The 43mm air/oil fork was created using technology borrowed from motocross. Perfect traction can be achieved thanks to the completely adjustable KYB suspension. Both iron horses were painted in a high-tech style.

• 04/04/2015 at 08:54:57

Classmates

The Yamaha XJ 900 S Diverse is the main competitor for this Kawasaki motorcycle. Having begun production in 1995, it disappeared from the market in 2002. In terms of characteristics, it is somewhat inferior to the GPZ 900, but the cost is more affordable.

A used model will cost around 150 thousand Russian rubles, while for a Kawasaki you will have to pay at least 200 thousand. It is no longer possible to buy either one or the other bike new.

Unless someone once bought a car and did not use it, properly storing it in the garage. But this will, of course, affect how much such a Kawasaki costs.

Pure madness

Both motorcycles, the H2 and the H2R, are made impeccably and beautifully down to the smallest detail. To help their engines cope with heavy loads, Kawasaki has a knock sensor as its first drive unit, and its unit is designed to withstand loads twice that of a naturally aspirated engine. Interestingly, the exhaust valves are made of two elements: a steel shaft, which was combined with a valve made of heat-resistant Inconel (an alloy of nickel and chromium).

Ninja H2R, kawasaki ninja h2r

Hellish power is provided by a whole army of electronic amplifiers - ABS, launch control, electronic steering, variable engine braking, electronically controlled Ohlins damping shock absorber, traction control...

The Kawasaki Ninja H2r has rear wheel control, but you have to accept some slippage on corner exit that can flip the car. Then the power of the bike will take over and pull the front wheel up faster than the traction control will kick in - but then you have to react quickly. H2R is pure madness!

kawasaki ninja h2r, 2h

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History of changes

The bike has come a long way and has undergone some changes:

1. Production began in 1984.
2. In 1986 it began to be sold in European countries.
3. In 1989, heated carburetors were added.
4. In 1991, the bike began to be sold in Japan.
5. From 1994 to 1997 production was stopped.
6. In 1999, 6-piston front suspension calipers were added.
7. In 2002, a catalyst was added to help the motorcycle meet new environmental standards.
8. Production discontinued in 2003.

If you compare the photos of the new and old versions, there is not much difference. That is why it is better to buy a motorcycle from the last years of production, when it was already at the peak of its development.

What do the owners say?

As for service, the majority are satisfied. Those whose model often broke down understand that the problem is largely due to poor road surfaces. In any case, judging by the reviews, it is not difficult to get spare parts for this Kawasaki.

From the descriptions of their experiences by city residents, it follows that in an urban environment, a motorcycle sometimes gets very hot.

The problem can be solved by installing forced cooling. Then, when the bike gets stuck in a traffic jam, the rider just needs to press the appropriate button and the car will quickly cool down.

There are quite a few videos that show riding a model with a helmet view. Most of those who reviewed it noted the sharp acceleration and the fact that such a car is not suitable for a beginner. They also note the ergonomic fit, which is especially important at high speeds.

In conclusion, it is worth noting that the Kawasaki GPZ 900 is suitable for those who appreciate motorcycles from the eighties and prefer a sports-touring class. A smart solution for road travel. The main thing is to remember that this option is not for off-road use.

Notes

1. ^ a b c d f g Kawasaki Museum GPZ900R History
   , Kawasaki Heavy Industries, 2008, archived from the original on 2007-06-25
2. ^ a b
   Walker, Mick (2001),
   Performance Motorcycles
   , Amber Books, Ltd. and Chartwell Books (Book Sales, Inc.), pp. 152–153, ISBN 0-7858-1380-2
3. ^ a b c d f g gram h i j k
   Krens (2001) p. 356
4. ^ a b c d f g gram h i j k Kawasaki Museum GPZ900R Specifications
   , Kawasaki Heavy Industries, 2008, archived from the original on 2009-06-19
5. ^ a b c d f g Walker
   (2006), pp. 174-5
6. ^ a b
   Repair Manual[
   clarification required
   ]
7. Walker (2006) p. 172
8. Segal, Margie (January–February 2007). "Eddie Lawson Replica Kawasaki KZ1000R." Classic motorcycles. Retrieved November 13, 2017.
9. Official website of the Isle of Man TT.
   Production Results TT 1984 751-1500cc , IOM State Department of Tourism and Recreation, Duke Marketing Ltd., 2009.
10. Walker (2003) p. 140
11. ^ a b
    De Sete (2005) pp. 141-2
12. ^ a b
    Brown (2000) p. 185
13. Ker, Rod (2007), A Guide to Classic Japanese Motorcycles
    , Sparkford, UK: Haynes Publishing, para 209, ISBN 1-84425-335-X
14. Dowds, Alan (2007), Superbikes: Street Racers: Design and Technology
    , Thunder Bay Press, para 246, ISBN 1-59223-777-0
15. Brown, Roland (2005), The Definitive History of Fast Motorcycles
    , Bath, England: Parragon, pp. 184–185, ISBN 1-4054-5466-0
16. Interesting Facts about Top Gun
    , IMDb.com, 2009
17. Christian Science Monitor (2005), p. 11
18. Brandweek (2008) p. 18
19. Gingerelli (2011) p. 93