Kawasaki ZRX1100/1200R/S - buying used

Kawasaki decided to recapture a bit of Eddie Lawson magic when it launched the ZRX1100 in '97, which was loosely styled after the AMA Superbike Champ's racer of the early '80s.

Its 1054cc liquid-cooled DOHC engine is basically a retuned ZZ-R1100 unit, but new cams saw horsepower drop from 140 to 90.

The engine sat happily in a low-tech, steel-tube frame, suspended by period-looking but fully-adjustable suspension.

In Australia there were two versions of the 1100, the C3 and C4 that covered just three years from 1999 to 2001. Original price was $12,990.

The $13,990 ZRX1200R appeared in 2001, along with the ZXR1200S, which was a grand more but had an effective half fairing. The 'S' finished in 2004, while the 'R' is still available new.

The 1200 featured a large number of modifications, giving a claimed 124hp, while the chassis also copped a workover, with slightly different geometry, taller gearing and a smaller fuel tank.

ON THE ROAD
The 1100 lacks the power and grunt of the 1200, but it's a good bike - smooth and refined.

The 1200, on the other hand, is the full fist throughout the rev range, and keeps going after the 1100 has run out of puff.

The 1200 handles well for a heavy-ish bike, while the 1100 benefits from the odd tweak. The six-piston brakes work well.

They're comfortable machines, solo or two-up, but if fast touring is on the agenda go for the 'S'.

Economy is about 16km/lt, which equates with about 250km before you hit reserve.

IN THE WORKSHOP
A minor service every 6000km should set you back around $250, while checking the valves every 30,000km will be more like $500 to $600, depending on what needs to be replaced.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR
Well the good news is that any ZRX is built on rock solid engineering, but going for one with a good service record is still the safest bet.

 A ZRX should start almost instantly and not blow smoke once it's warm. In addition there should be no loud rattles or clicking sounds; the 1100 can be a bit noisy but the 1200 is beautifully quiet.

MODIFICATIONS
There are a stack of things you can do with a ZRX1100, from installing ZZ-R1100 cams (which drop straight in), to full exhaust systems, jet kits and more.

I'd leave the 1200 engine alone, but it can still benefit from a can and re-jetting.

After that, fine-tune the suspension and fit Bridgestone BT010s.

WHICH MODEL?
Given that both models can be found for small figures, either version is great. The 1100 can be easily improved, but in truth, the 1200 is by far the better machine.

SUMMING UP
An absolute bargain-priced, do-everything gem with timeless retro styling. This is great second-hand buying.

RATING
Five stars - An iron fist in a velvet glove