Photo ou archives : F-M. Dumas
309
Kawasaki
750 Turbo (prototype) – 1981
Aeronautical DNA
In 1981, turbochargers were all the rage: Honda and Yamaha had already launched turbo bikes, while Suzuki and Kawasaki responded to the challenge by launching turbo models at the Tokyo Motorcycle Show.
Sensational Styling
Based on the existing 750 model, Kawasaki's turbo bike had sensational styling, which foreshadowed the 1972 ZX range. The fairing, in satin-finished aluminum, was treated in an "aviation style that recalled the existing Kawasaki 500cc racer, with raised screw heads in the manner of aircraft rivets (another branch of the Kawasaki group was an aircraft manufacturer). The three-spoked wheels were also inspired by the 500cc GP racer, while this was the first road-going Kawasaki to adopt the Unitrak single shock-absorber rear suspension.
Liquid-Crystal Display
The instrument panel of the 750 Turbo incorporated a liquid crystal display, and the engine sported electronic fuel injection, a system that Kawasaki had pioneered in series production in 1980. Mounting the turbo ahead of the engine ensured that it was properly cooled, and the short exhaust tracts minimized dreaded turbo lag. But when the 750 Turbo went into production in 1983, while it kept the general appearance of the prototype, its gray color scheme had been sacrificed for a more aggressive red and black. Analog instruments replaced the liquid crystal displays.
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine: 738cc four-cylinder four-stroke
Power output: 110 hp
Valves: twin overhead camshafts
Fuel system: electronic fuel injection and turbocharger
Transmission: 5-speed gearbox; chain final drive
Suspension: (front) anti-plunge fork; (rear) swinging arm with single shock absorber
Brakes: (front) twin ventilated discs; (rear) disc
Wheels: cast alloy
Weight: 507 lb
Maximum speed: 143 mph
Move over, Rover, and let turbo take over. Though the prototype Turbo 750 was styled like an aircraft fuselage, with exposed rivets, Kawasaki didn't dare put the aluminium fairing into mass-production.”