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Touring · 1985

Z 550 F

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MotoLibrary Score
45 /100 Balanced
Power/Weight
0.3 hp/kg
Torque
48 Nm
Engine
553 ccm

1985 Kawasaki Z 550 F Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Engineered by Kawasaki for the touring motorcycle segment, the 1985 Kawasaki Z 550 F 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 56 HP (40.9 kW) at 9,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 48 Nm (35.4 lb-ft) at 7,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 101.3 HP per liter and a 1,500 rpm working window between peak torque (7,500 rpm) and peak power (9,000 rpm), 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 Z 550 F measures 184 kg (406 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.3 HP/kg (3.29 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 1,450 mm (57.1 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 18.5-liter (4.9 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.

Specific Output
101.3 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.3 HP/kg (3.29 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
7,500–9,000 rpm
Engine
Displacement 553.0 ccm (33.74 cubic inches)
Engine Type In-line four, four-stroke
Engine Details In-line four, four-stroke
Power 56.0 HP (40.9 kW)) @ 9000 RPM
Torque 48.0 Nm (4.9 kgf-m or 35.4 ft.lbs) @ 7500 RPM
Compression 9.5:1
Bore x Stroke 58.0 x 52.4 mm (2.3 x 2.1 inches)
Valves/Cylinder 2
Fuel System Carburettor. TK K26V
Fuel Control Double Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
Ignition Transistor
Lubrication Wet sump
Cooling Air
Max RPM 10000
Transmission
Gearbox 6-speed
Final Drive Chain (final drive)
Clutch Wet plate
Chassis
Rake 27.0°
Trail 105 mm (4.1 inches)
Wheelbase 1450 mm (57.1 inches)
Ground Clearance 160 mm (6.3 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Brakes Double disc
Rear Brakes Expanding brake (drum brake)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight 184.0 kg (405.7 pounds)
Power/Weight 0.3043 HP/kg
Overall Height 1105 mm (43.5 inches)
Overall Length 2235 mm (88.0 inches)
Overall Width 750 mm (29.5 inches)
Fuel Capacity 18.50 litres (4.89 US gallons)
Reserve Fuel 3.00 litres (0.79 US gallons)
Other
Starter Electric
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Buying Checklist

Before You Compare This Bike

Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.

Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
Rider Profile

Who Is This Bike For?

🟡
Intermediate
Requires some riding experience.
🗺️
Best For
Long Distance Touring
⚖️
Handling
Medium weight — some experience needed
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