Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/146675
nelled via the fairing onto the rider's legs, and it can get downright uncomfortable on hot summer afternoons, especially in city traffic. Even cruising down the highway the hot air scorches the rider's legs. But when it's cold outside, the ZX-ll's built-in "heater" can be a life saver. The instrument panel features all the "usual" information. The only thing we don't like is the absence of a fuel gauge. Instead, the ZX-ll relies on just two very annoying low-on-fuel warning lights that blink (at the same time). The blinking iights are especially irritating at night because they are very bright, and since there is no actual fuel gauge, you always have to remember to reset one of the two tripometers after topping off at the gas stations. There's no on/off/reserve petcock, either. So once the warning light goes on, you should find gas right away, because if you run out, that's it. We averaged approximately 32 mpg on the ZX-ll, which calculates to almost 180 miles per tankful. The fuel warning light usually went on at the 160mile mark. Getting to the two helmet locks is a pain, which requires the removal of the seat. Normally, that's no big deal, but the seat on the ZX-ll has an awkward fit and takes a lot of fiddling to get it on and off. Two (actually three) hands are needed. Overall, the ZX-ll is an awesome motorcycle and not just because it's fast (but that certainly helps). It's an easy motorcycle to ride and a comfortable one at that. The ZX-ll is well-suited for long weekend rides, which should, of course, always include a long section of switchbacks. And thanks to its torquey motor, it also works well as an everyday commuter.. As far as maintenance, the ZX-ll gave us zero problems. Nothing broke, cracked or vibrated loose. All we did was add a couple of quar'ts of oil and adjust the chain once. Even the Dunlop tires show little wear. So, what's a seemingly long-lasting, slick-looking, rocketship on two wheels going to cost you? The suggested retail price is $&299. That equals out to about $42.50 for every mile per hour registered on the speedometer. And that could very well be the fastest and best $8299 you'll ever spend. f.N Sped fications Kawasaki ZX-ll Ninja Engine .4-stroke, in-line four cylinder, DORC, 16-valves Displacement 1052cc Compression ratio 11:1 Bore x Stroke 76 x 58mm Cooling Liquid Carburetion Keihin CVKD40 x 4 Ignition Digital Transmission 6-speed w /Positive Neutral Finder Frame Perimeter, dual box-section aluminum Suspension, front 43mm fork, with adjustable preload and 4-way rebound damping Suspension, rear Bottom-link UniTrak, w / gas-charged shock and adjustable spring preload and 4-way rebound damping Wheel travel, front.. .4.9 inches Wheel travel, rear 4.7 inches 120/70 VR-17 Tire, front Dunlop tubeless radial 170/60 VR-17 Tire, rear Dunlop tubeless radial pual discs/ Brakes, front/rear Single disc Seat height _ 30.7 in. Dry weight .503 Ibs. Fuel capacity .5.5 gal Wheelbase 58.3 in. Suggested retail price $8299 THECDMPETlTlDII.I.I..MOIIG SHDIITI.K If you want to put yourself ahead of the pack, do what more and more professional racers are doing. Put your bike on our top-of-the-line, Z-rated Bridgestone Battlax BT50 ultra high performance radials. Championship rider Steve Crevier does on his Two Brothers Racing Honda CBR 600. Out back, a breakthrough Kevlar$ mono-spiral belt construction for straightaway stability and high speed durability. Plus a dual crown radius and tread compound combination that delivers excellent wet and dry traction. And up front, a design for exceptional directional stability combined with, quick handling and response. Together, they make one technologically advanced high performance package. In your choice of street or racing compounds to give you real control. Check them out. And discover how they leave the competition behind. - BATTZA,Y BIlIBIiESTllIIE Now Available Through Cycle News Video Theater "1992 GAINESVILLE MX NATIONALS" (#150B) The 1992 AMA National Motocross season got off to a flying start with four hot 125cc and 250 cc motos in front of an enthusiastic crowd at Florida's famous Gatorback Raceway. Team Honda's Jeff Stanton had never been more determined to win back the 250cc National title, but 1991 triple crown winner Jean-Michel Bayle and Yamaha's Damon Bradshaw, along with Kawasaki's Mike Kiedrowski had other ideas. Pleasant, warm weather set the stage on the tough course in the rock-quarry setting to provide a day of close and competitive racing. Mike LaRocco made his debut in the 125cc class as a member of the Kawasaki team one to remember as he battled with former Suzuki teammate Guy Cooper for first round honors. The first exciting event of the 1992 season is all here, including exclusive behind·the-scenes interviews and a look Inside Motocross with Bob "Hurricane" Hannah. Narrated by Larry Maiers. 50 minutes from Powersports Video. 21