Engineered by Kawasaki for the custom - cruiser motorcycle segment, the 1996 Kawasaki ZL 600 Eliminator features a 592 cc (36.1 cu in) liquid-cooled in-line four, four-stroke configuration. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 61 HP (44.5 kW) at 10,500 rpm while maximum torque reaches 45.1 Nm (33.3 lb-ft) at 7,800 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and shaft drive (cardan) final drive. With a specific output of 103 HP per liter and a 2,700 rpm working window between peak torque (7,800 rpm) and peak power (10,500 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 ZL 600 Eliminator measures 213 kg (470 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.29 HP/kg (3.49 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 715 mm (28.1 in) seat height — giving shorter riders and urban commuters confident flat-foot reach at traffic stops, combined with a 1,550 mm (61 in) wheelbase engineered for planted straight-line stability. The 12-liter (3.2 US gal) fuel tank paired with a rated consumption of 5.47 L/100 km provides an estimated theoretical range of roughly 219 km (136 miles) between fill-ups, while factory top speed is listed at 182 km/h (113 mph).
Within MotoLibrary's Kawasaki archive, this model family spans 3 indexed model years from 1995 to 1997, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
103 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.29 HP/kg (3.49 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
7,800–10,500 rpm
Theoretical Range
~219 km (136 mi)
Engine
Displacement592.0 ccm (36.12 cubic inches)
Engine TypeIn-line four, four-stroke
Engine DetailsIn-line four, four-stroke
Power61.0 HP (44.5 kW)) @ 10500 RPM
Torque45.1 Nm (4.6 kgf-m or 33.3 ft.lbs) @ 7800 RPM
Compression11.0:1
Bore x Stroke60.0 x 52.4 mm (2.4 x 2.1 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemCarburettor. Keihin CV, 30 mm
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
IgnitionSolid state digital
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveShaft drive (cardan) (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed182.0 km/h (113.1 mph)
0-400m12.20 seconds
0-100 km/h3.83 seconds
Fuel Consumption5.47 litres/100 km (18.3 km/l or 43.00 mpg)
Greenhouse Gases126.9 CO2 g/km. (CO2 - Carbon dioxide emission)
Chassis
Frame TypeTubular double cradle, steel
Trail105 mm (4.1 inches)
Front SuspensionKayaba air assisted forks, 37mm
Front Travel137 mm (5.4 inches)
Rear SuspensionDual shocks adjustable for rebound and preload damping
Rear Travel89 mm (3.5 inches)
Wheelbase1550 mm (61.0 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre100/90-18
Rear Tyre150/80-15
Front BrakesSingle disc
Front Brake Ø280 mm (11.0 inches)
Rear BrakesExpanding brake
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight196.0 kg (432.1 pounds)
Weight incl.213.0 kg (469.6 pounds)
Power/Weight0.3112 HP/kg
Seat Height715 mm (28.1 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
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.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
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.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
