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The ZX-7R was launched in 1996 as a replacement for the ZXR750. It was a tough role to fill as the ZXR was a hugely popular and successful bike. Kawasaki got the styling just right with the ZX-7R and even 12 years after its launch still looks great. Since the litre bikes went to war they have all spliced themselves together and with a custom paint job are indishtingushable from eachother. All pointy daggers with twin slit eyes at the front and leds at the rear. The late nineties saw some really individual and different sports bikes even within the 750 class. Today only the GSXR750 survives and proves that the class is very relevant in terms of mid range, torque and roll on top end. The ZX-7R has all of these qualities from its strong, smooth and reliable engine. Top notch usd forks, fully adjustable rear shock, 123bhp and great balance. It would have been perfect ad it not been its weight problem, 203kg dry is nothing to be proud of if your a supersports bike, but typically on the road this is forgotten and weight is not an issue, in fact it could be argued that modern bikes are too light and twitchy. This is especially true on poor quality road surfaces which the ZX-7R soaks up with ease, in fact the feel from the front is exceptional and gives you supreme confidence. The chassis is as good as any and at the price point of these bikes now, only the GSX-R, R1 and Fireblade are its main rivals. However you would be lucky to find an R1 for the same age as a ZX-7R. My previous bike was a YZF750 which was far past its sell by date. It would be unfair to compare them but I must, The Yam build quality was not great, the engine rattled and burned its oil quickly, the rear shock was hopeless meaning on most rough roads it was no fun. My 97 ZX-7R could not be more different, I only have praise, the riding position is spot on and the roar of the air box and stainless can put a grin on your face, the roll on at 70mph is awsome and similar to my old RF900. To sum up then, the ZX-7R is good looking, well behaved, quick, comfortable and now a bargain. I love the green ones but to be different I got the red and purple one ( much less common ). |
