| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Production Years | 1981-1982 |
| Engine Type | 1089cc, Inline-4, DOHC, Air-Cooled |
| Oil Requirement | SAE 10W-40 / 20W-50 (3.0L – 3.7L) |
| Tires (Front/Rear) | 100/90-19 57V / 120/90-18 65V |
| Battery Type | YB18L-A |
| Spark Plug | NGK BR8ES (0.7–0.8 mm gap) |
The Kawasaki GPZ 1100 (KZT10B-B) holds a prestigious position in motorcycling history as the first mass-produced flagship superbike to fully embrace the digital age. While its predecessor, the Z1000G-1, introduced fuel injection, the GPZ 1100 refined it with the Digital Fuel Injection (DFI) system—a sophisticated adaptation of Bosch L-Jetronic technology that eliminated the temperamental nature of high-performance carburetors of the era.
Technical Engineering Overview
The heart of the KZT10B-B is a bored-out 1089cc evolution of the legendary Z1 engine. By increasing the bore to 72.5mm, Kawasaki achieved a power output of approximately 108-109 hp, making it the fastest production bike of its time. The DFI system used sensors for intake air temperature, engine temperature, and throttle position to optimize the air-fuel mixture, providing a level of throttle response previously unseen in the liter-class segment.
Maintenance Guide & Technical Requirements
Lubrication System
To preserve the air-cooled DOHC top end, MotoSpecsLab recommends high-zinc mineral or semi-synthetic oils. Use SAE 10W-40 for temperate climates and 20W-50 for high-heat environments.
- Oil Change (with filter): 3.0 Liters
- Dry Engine: 3.7 Liters
Ignition and Electrical
The KZT10B-B utilizes NGK BR8ES spark plugs. Given the early nature of the DFI system, ensuring a precise gap of 0.7–0.8 mm is critical for cold-start reliability. The electrical system relies on a high-capacity YB18L-A battery; maintaining a full charge is essential as the fuel pump and ECU are sensitive to voltage drops.
Chassis and Contact Patch
For optimal handling, the GPZ 1100 requires V-rated tires. We recommend maintaining 2.0 bar (28 psi) in the front 100/90-19 tire and 2.25 bar (32 psi) in the rear 120/90-18 tire. Under-inflation on this 240kg (dry) machine significantly degrades turn-in response and increases tire wall temperature.
The MotoSpecsLab Verdict
The Kawasaki GPZ 1100 (KZT10B-B) is more than a vintage superbike; it is a milestone of engineering transition. For the modern collector, the primary challenge lies in maintaining the DFI sensors and ensuring the fuel tank remains free of rust, which can clog the sensitive injectors. When properly tuned, the GPZ 1100 offers a visceral, high-torque experience that defines the ‘King of the Road’ era of the early 1980s.