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The new-for-2005 Kawasaki Z750 motorcycle offers a unique combination of NINJA sportbike performance comfort for two-up touring and the aggressive style of Kawasaki’s “super naked” Z1000. Initially launched in Europe and refined for American riding styles the new Z750 is powered by a liquid-cooled 748cc inline four-cylinder engine that delivers a smooth linear powerband. It features a bore and stroke of 68.4mm x 50.9mm double overhead cams 16 valves reshaped intake ports exhaust ports and combustion chambers. A four-into-one exhaust system enhances mid-range power while an oval-shaped racinginspired muffler helps to keep the Z750 running quietly. The muffler also includes a metal honeycomb catalyzer to reduce emissions. The Z750 is the first middleweight naked bike to feature electronic fuel injection and utilizes 34mm throttle bodies. Combined with high-speed digital ignition both systems are managed by an electronic engine control unit for snappy throttle response. To maintain a consistent operating temperature the Z750 utilizes the same large radiator and ring fan as that found on the Z1000. Power is transferred to the rear wheel through a six-speed transmission and 520 X-ring drive chain and the Z750 rides on high-performance radial tires mounted on new six-spoke 17-inch wheels. The new wheels do more than look good – they are lighter and stronger than previous three-spoke designs further reducing the Z750’s overall dry weight. The Z750’s lightweight diamond frame is constructed of large diameter thin wall tubing for strength and rigidity for nimble backroad handling and high-speed stability. Plus the detachable right front-top portion of the frame makes tune-ups easier. Performance-tuned 41mm forks plus a rear swingarm featuring cast aluminum UNI-TRAK linkage and shock with four-way rebound damping and seven-way spring preload adjustments help the Z750 soak up road bumps. Dual 300mm front disc brakes with four-piston calipers and a 220mm rear disc brake help the rider bring the Z750 to quick powerful stops. Being a naked bike doesn’t mean the Z750 is without amenities. The Z750’s three-piece bikini cowl gives it a lean provocative look while quartz halogen headlights brighten the road at night. The instrument panel – shared with the NINJA ZX-10R – glows with a new bright red backlight for a high-class look and includes a radial tachometer digital speedometer odometer tripmeter fuel gauge and clock while the modern LED taillight and turn signals are shared with the new NINJA ZX-6RR. The swingarm-mounted inner fender and front fender contribute to the Z750’s aggressive sporty image. The galvanized steel fuel tank is slender and helps to create a seating position that is comfortable and allows the rider to mold to the bike. The new tandem seat features sleek passenger grab bars and an optional tandem seat cover is available from Kawasaki.
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