2008 Kawasaki Z750 from Sweden

Summary:

Reliable, simple, and good-looking

Faults:

Ignition coils are a common problem. They can fail when pulling away in first gear or cause the engine to run on three cylinders.

The warning light comes on due to the exhaust valve servo and cables, often requiring the installation of an emulator to correct the ECU reading.

The throttle position sensor can provide erroneous readings, causing hesitation at low RPM.

Fuel pump accumulates dirt and debris from the tank, which can cause power loss or stalling when accelerating.

General Comments:

The bike boasts neither ostentation nor high-tech features, and therein lies much of its appeal. It stands out for its simplicity, no riding modes, no traction control, and no distractions.

It is comfortable enough for daily use, handling the year's darkest, rainiest days without issue. It comes alive above 7,000 rpm and delivers thrills on the right stretch of road, providing just the right dose of adrenaline before things get out of hand.

The main point to make is that, despite being a Kawasaki, it is a budget-friendly motorcycle; part of Kawasaki's cost-cutting strategy involved simplifying the suspension, which is basic to begin with. The 41mm inverted forks and rear monoshock look the part, but their performance is quite basic.

It performs adequately for stable riding, but its limitations become apparent when pushed hard or when carrying a passenger, even with suspension adjustments. Only one fork leg controls rebound damping, and the front end is generally soft, as is the rear shock.

This means that the handling of the Kawasaki Z750 (which features quick steering) soon begins to suffer when the rider demands more from the bike.

While the lack of precision can be largely corrected through setup changes (restoring the fun factor to a motorcycle that would otherwise put a smile on your face) a more comprehensive suspension upgrade is needed to make it feel truly capable.

Braking system is another area where the Z750 feels somewhat dated by modern standards. The dual front discs are a respectable 300 mm in size, but the front calipers are floating units with only two pistons each, a setup nowadays typically found on the less powerful rear brakes of motorcycles in this class. They offer progressive, beginner-friendly braking power but lack the precise, confident response found in more modern or high-performance braking systems.

The 748cc inline-four engine powering this iteration of the Z750 revs freely and delivers solid low-end power, thanks to fuel injection and redesigned internal components.

It is a mechanically simple yet highly reliable engine; so far, I haven't encountered any significant issues in this regard.

It combines the authentic essence of a motorcycle with everyday practicality, pairing a responsive, tractable inline-four engine with a comfortable, upright riding position.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 14th July, 2026

2004 Kawasaki Z750 from Australia

Summary:

Cheap straightforward fun bike

Faults:

I have had no problems as of yet with the Z750, it's still a new bike.

General Comments:

The Z 750 fuel injection and throttle response is very smooth and linear below 6000 revs. Above 6000 revs the bike has a few vibes. Above 8000 revs you have pressed the go button and can this thing move when pressed.

Great bike in the city, can cut through traffic easily.

For the price, the bike has great handling, very neutral and safe feeling.

The screen is effective at legal speed limits. Up the pace and things get quite breezy.

I reckon the brakes can do with a bit of work, a little second rate.

Great fun on ride days. If you've got the guts, it can handle it with the best, and can surprise a few.

Pegs can be a bit low for track days.

Not the most comfortable long-distance machine, forget about pillions, and if you have a wife or friend, don't take them with you, you will end up separated.

Good all-rounder.

Found the suspension average for my weight, so I have had it reworked for my riding style and me.

Would you buy another motorcycle from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 8th April, 2005