What is the engine displacement of the 1985 Kawasaki GPZ 550?

The 1985 Kawasaki GPZ 550 has an engine displacement of 553.00 ccm (33.74 cubic inches).

How much horsepower does the 1985 Kawasaki GPZ 550 have?

The 1985 Kawasaki GPZ 550 produces 65.00 HP (47.4 kW)) @ 10500 RPM of power.

What is the top speed of the 1985 Kawasaki GPZ 550?

The 1985 Kawasaki GPZ 550 has a top speed of 196.0 km/h (121.8 mph).

1985 Kawasaki GPZ 550 Price, Specs, Review

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Review

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The 1985 Kawasaki GPZ 550 holds a significant place in the lineage of Kawasaki's sporty middleweight motorcycles, bridging the gap between smaller commuter bikes and larger, more dedicated sportbikes of its era. As a Vintage category machine, it represented a compelling option for riders seeking a blend of everyday usability and spirited performance. In the competitive landscape of the mid-eighties, the GPZ 550 faced off against rivals such as the Honda CBX550F and the Yamaha XJ600, all vying for supremacy in the burgeoning sport-touring segment that emphasized versatility.

At the heart of the GPZ 550 was its robust 553.00 ccm (33.74 cubic inches) in-line four, four-stroke engine. This powerplant was engineered to deliver a respectable 65.00 HP (47.4 kW) at a high 10500 RPM, showcasing its rev-happy nature. This power output translated into a notable top speed of 196.0 km/h (121.8 mph), making it a formidable performer for its class. Fuel capacity was generous at 18.00 litres (4.76 gallons), allowing for decent touring range before needing a refill, underscoring its dual-purpose appeal.

Riding characteristics of the GPZ 550 were a balance of sportiness and comfort. Its fairing offered a degree of wind protection, making longer rides more manageable than on a naked equivalent. While not featuring aggressive rearset pegs or a track-focused ergonomic setup, the riding position was still engaging enough for spirited cornering without being overly taxing. The suspension provided a compliant ride, soaking up road imperfections effectively, contributing to its touring capabilities while still offering sufficient feedback for confident handling.

The 1985 Kawasaki GPZ 550 was primarily aimed at riders who desired a motorcycle that could handle daily commuting with ease but also offer genuine excitement on weekend blasts. It appealed to a demographic that appreciated a motorcycle with a strong engine, decent top speed, and a comfortable yet sporty riding experience. For today's vintage enthusiast, the GPZ 550 remains an accessible classic, offering a slice of 1980s motorcycling heritage that is both enjoyable to ride and relatively easy to maintain, making it a solid choice for those seeking a practical yet engaging vintage machine.

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Pros (Advantages)

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✅ Why buy this bike?

The Kawasaki GPZ 550 1985 is known for its sporty and aggressive styling, appealing to riders looking for a visually striking motorcycle.
It features a powerful 553cc engine that delivers a good balance of performance and reliability, making it a great choice for both daily commuting and spirited rides.
The GPZ 550 1985 offers a comfortable riding position with a well-padded seat and ergonomic handlebars, allowing riders to enjoy long journeys without feeling fatigued.
This model is praised for its nimble handling and responsive suspension, providing riders with a confident and engaging riding experience, especially on twisty roads.
The Kawasaki GPZ 550 1985 has a strong aftermarket support, making it easy for riders to find replacement parts, accessories, and upgrades to customize and maintain their motorcycle.

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Cons (Disadvantages)

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⚠️ Things to consider

Limited aftermarket support for parts and accessories due to the age of the motorcycle.
Older technology and design may result in less efficient fuel consumption compared to newer models.
Potential for higher maintenance costs and difficulty finding experienced mechanics familiar with older bikes.
Limited electronic features and safety advancements found in modern motorcycles.
Reduced performance and power output compared to newer sportbike models in the same class.

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Alternatives

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⚖️ Comparison & Competition

Honda CB750F Super Sport
A classic and reliable choice, the CB750F offers a smooth inline-four engine, comfortable riding position, and timeless styling.
Suzuki GS550
Known for its durability and ease of maintenance, the GS550 features a responsive engine, good handling, and a comfortable seat for long rides.
Yamaha XJ650 Maxim
A popular choice for its balance of power and comfort, the XJ650 Maxim offers a smooth inline-four engine, sleek design, and a relaxed riding position.
BMW R65
For those seeking a more premium option, the BMW R65 combines German engineering with a classic air-cooled boxer-twin engine, excellent build quality, and unique styling.
Ducati Pantah 500
Ideal for riders looking for a sportier experience, the Pantah 500 boasts a V-twin engine, agile handling, and distinctive Italian design cues

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License Class (EU)

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With 65 HP, requires full Class A license. Riders must be 24+ or have 2 years A2 experience (20+).

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Fuel Economy & Running Costs

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Estimated average for 553cc class: 45-60 mpg (4.0-5.5 L/100km)

⛽ Tank: 18.00 litres (4.76 gallons)

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Insurance Class

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Insurance grouping for Kawasaki GPZ 550 (553cc):

📋 Group 8-15 — mid-range

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Insurance Calculator (UK est.)

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Personalised premium estimate for the Kawasaki GPZ 550 (UK rates):

💡 Estimate based on UK market averages. For real quotes, compare on Compare the Market, MoneySuperMarket, GoCompare.

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Price Estimate

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Estimated price range for the Kawasaki GPZ 550 based on comparable motorcycles:

AVERAGE

$2,749

📊 Category-based (23 motorcycles) · Approximate (USD)

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Buy New & Used

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Find new and used Kawasaki GPZ 550 1985 listings:

🛒 eBay Motors 🏍️ Cycle Trader 🇬🇧 Auto Trader UK 🔍 Google Listings

💡 Third-party listings. MotoBike Info is informational only.

👤 Final premium varies by rider age, history, location.

Kawasaki GPZ 550

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