GPZ 550

1987 Kawasaki GPZ 550 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Built around Kawasaki's classic motorcycle platform, the 1987 Kawasaki GPZ 550 relies on a 553 cc (33.7 cu in) air-cooled in-line four, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 65 HP (47.4 kW) at 10,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 117.5 HP per liter, the engine character is reflecting a performance-oriented street tune that balances strong mid-range pull with an energetic top-end rush.

On the scales, the GPZ 550 measures 209 kg (461 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.31 HP/kg (3.22 kg per horsepower). The 18-liter (4.8 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 196 km/h (122 mph).

Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 10 indexed model years from 1981 to 1990, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.