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Charismatic high performance touring machine launched in 1986. The engine was taken straight out of the ZX1000 Ninja, the first 160mph sports bike. The liquid cooled DOHC four-valve engine was of course re-tuned for more mid range torque with smaller 32mm carburettors, and unusually for that time was fitted with stainless steel header pipes also reduced in diameter by 6mm. The valve duration was also reduced by 15 degrees resulting in 11 kg-m of torque at 5000 rpm and 97bhp @ 7000 rpm. The engine was still redlined though at 10500 rpm.
The six speed gear box with fairly wide ratios and shaft final drive all go to make up one of the Worlds finest long distance touring machines, especially loved by the DIY type of owner, as most maintenance tasks, like valve clearance adjustments are straight forward.
The fully adjustable suspension allows varying payloads, and the 127mph top speed can be held with out fear of reliability problems due to the low state of tune, relative the Ninja sports machine.
As with most quality sports touring machines second had residuals for rare low mileage models remain high, with the popularity unlikely to diminish any time soon.
