If Kawasaki still made the...
If Kawasaki still made the ZX-7R, it might just look like this.
Back To The Future
Bringing Dead Bikes To Life: Kawasaki Zx-8r
In 1996, Kawasaki replaced its ageing - but successful - ZXR750 with the ZX-7R. With a host of engine and chassis enhancements, including ram-air, 6-piston brakes and fully adjustable suspension, the 7R continued the sales success and earned itself a reputation for possessing the most stable and precise front-end in its class. What the 7R lacked in agility against the GSX-R and YZF 750s of the day it made up for in predictability and brutish good looks. But without any further revisions the heavyweight 750 faded into the background, leaving the GSX-R the sole survivor of the 750 race. It was discontinued in 2003. With a WSB racing pedigree in the hands of Scott Russell, we feel it's only right to re-introduce the ZX-7R as the ultimate trackday tool to take on the GSX-R. It's had its own way for far too long.
Engine
It's often said that a 750 is a perfect compromise of power but we'd like just a little more. Using our favorite Kawi 636cc engine as a starting point, we've force-fed steroids into the motor and bored it out to 800cc. With a stonking midrange befitting a 750, fuel injection and a four-into-two exhaust system (one exits in the bellypan, the other under the tail unit), this has all the power needed to wipe the floor with the GSX-R750. We're talking a true rear wheel 150 bhp at 13,000rpm and 64 ft-lb of torque.
Chassis
Taking the frame off the latest ZX-6R was an easy decision to make, and with a few modifications to it and the swingarm, we were able to slot in the Ducati 1098 wheels and front forks. We were going to replace the rear shock with a hardtail for ZXR-750 nostalgia purposes, but decided to borrow the 1098s hlins rear shock unit as well. With no pillion perch, we can do away with a full-length (and full weight) subframe and pillion footrests, meaning our 375 lb ZX-8R is lighter than the GSX-R750. We own the racetrack now.
Bodywork
Okay, hands up. We admit we may have raided a few parts bins here and there. The tank is a modified ZX-10R, the headlight is courtesy of a Z1000, the fairing is a mash-up of Honda RCV, RC8 and old-skool ZX-7R. The mudguard was salvaged from a previously unfinished Suzuki RF1000 project, and the tail unit is a hacksawed NR750 item. Amazing what you can find in a skip nowadays. Mirrors and screen are modified ZX-12R units and the ram-rir grilles are made from chicken wire. But we did make our own seat.
Coming next month: The 2009 Suzuki RF1000