The Z and three-quarters: buying secondhand
Kawasaki launched the Z750 in 2003 to replace the less than popular ZR-7, following the success of it’s one litre sibling. This model remained unchanged until 2007 when a completely revised model was launched. The Z750 left the showrooms in 2013, replaced by the Z800.
Give me some spec
A 748cc, transverse four cylinder engine puts out 110bhp @ 11,000rpm, supported by a hefty 55lb-ft @ 7,800 revs. The Z750 is capable of a reputed 144mph with an 11.2 second standing ¼ mile. All of this resides in a hightensile steel diamond frame.
Hauling the above and 195kg dry weight to a stop are 2x300mm discs with 2-piston calipers and a sole 22mm disc with a single piston to the rear.
So what is it like to ride?
The Z750 looks like it’s going to be a big, heavy thing. Add that to the 32-inch seat height and I wondered if it was going to be top-heavy. Nothing like it. It feels balanced and stable, and my 29-inch legs have no problem finding the floor. That feeling of stability continues out on the road. It’s rock solid in a straight line, leaning into corners you’re instantly confident as that stable feel never leaves.
The Z750 will do the town thing, though the clutch is heavy in that environment. The thing to do with this bike is find some open space and open the throttle. Do this and you’re rewarded with a surge forward and an end can taking on a lovely, throaty sound. In theory you should be chasing the revs at the top end, but you’re never short of grunt anywhere in the range. The gearbox is slick and positive as well.
Both the suspension and brakes are basic, but both do their job really well. I deliberately took the Z750 down a B-road that allows for spirited riding, but has some ripples and crests. The Kwak handled it all, with just a twitch on one of the bigger crests. Same story with the brakes; their performance is all you’ll need, despite their basic spec. They’ll stop you hard if needed, added to great levels of feel.
I like the single clock, it’s quick glance clear. The one fail is the instrument shroud, which does absolutely nothing to deflect windblast! Oh, and your feet are splayed by the pegs, making paddling a little difficult at times.
What nick is it in?
This bike is the definition of one careful owner who loved his bike (at 70, his legs aren’t strong enough to hold it up any more). I searched long and hard before I found the merest hint of furring on the engine casing.
What’s it worth?
The dealer wants £2,299 for a 2005 bike with just 12,120 miles logged, in immaculate condition. Our dealer search found a range from a 2007 machine with 33,270 miles on board for £2,399 to a 2013 bike with 14,000 miles for £4,591. Amazingly, there is another 2005 model, with 13,725 miles for £2,795.