The 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A, widely known as the Concours, is a robust sport-touring motorcycle that enjoyed a long production run from 1986 to 2006. Its distinctive full fairing and upright riding position define its body style, designed for long-distance comfort and respectable performance. Available primarily in a single well-equipped trim, its new pricing was competitive, while used models now typically range from $2,000 to $4,500 depending on condition. It stands out for its legendary reliability, shaft drive, and incredible value, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious touring enthusiasts.
The Good
The 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Concours offers a compelling blend of advantages. Its strong 997cc inline-four engine provides ample performance for highway cruising and passing, while the shaft drive ensures low maintenance and reliable power delivery. Riders praise its exceptional comfort, thanks to a plush seat and wind protection. Its timeless, functional design and decent fuel efficiency make it a practical choice. Emotionally, it represents freedom on the open road and a sense of enduring quality, offering incredible value for money in the used market.
The Bad
While generally reliable, the 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Concours has known weaknesses to watch out for. Common issues include a stiff clutch, occasionally finicky carburetor synchronization, and potential stator/regulator problems, especially on older, higher-mileage units. The brake lines can also degrade over time, and the plastic fairing components can become brittle. Additionally, its weight can be challenging for some at low speeds or when parking.
2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A: Quick Overview
The 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A, or Concours, boasts a solid set of specifications for a sport-touring machine of its era.
- Engine: Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, 997cc inline four-cylinder.
- Bore x Stroke: 74.0 x 58.0 mm.
- Compression Ratio: 10.2:1.
- Carburetors: Four Keihin CVK32.
- Ignition: Digital.
- Horsepower: Approximately 98-100 hp at 9,000 rpm (crankshaft) and around 80-85 hp at the rear wheel.
- Torque: Around 65-70 lb-ft at 7,000 rpm.
- Transmission: 6-speed constant mesh.
- Final Drive: Shaft.
- Fuel Capacity: 7.5 gallons (28.4 liters).
- Fuel Economy: Riders typically report 35-45 MPG, heavily depending on riding style and conditions. Cruising can see upwards of 40-45 MPG, while aggressive riding might drop it to the low 30s.
- 0-60 mph Acceleration: Generally in the low 4-second range, with some riders achieving closer to 3.8-4.0 seconds under optimal conditions. This makes it a surprisingly quick motorcycle for its touring designation.
- Top Speed: Approximately 125-130 mph.
- Brakes: Dual 280mm front disc brakes with two-piston calipers; single 280mm rear disc brake with a two-piston caliper.
- Suspension:
- Front: 41mm conventional telescopic fork with air-assist and adjustable rebound damping.
- Rear: Uni-Trak® single shock with adjustable preload and rebound damping.
- Tires: Front 120/70-18, Rear 150/80-16.
- Dry Weight: Approximately 584 lbs (265 kg).
- Seat Height: 31.1 inches (790 mm).
- Trim-Level Features: The ZG1000-A came in a single well-appointed trim for touring. Standard features included a large full fairing for wind protection, integrated locking hard saddlebags (panniers), a comfortable two-up seat, an analog instrument cluster with speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and temperature gauge, and a clock. It also featured an adjustable windscreen, although manual. There were no significant optional "trims" in the conventional sense, but accessories like taller screens, heated grips, and aftermarket seats were popular additions by owners. Its robust chassis and powerful engine were standard, providing excellent long-haul capability.
2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2000 |
| Make | Kawasaki |
| Model | ZG1000-A |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Motorcycle |
| Category | Motorcycle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | LINCOLN |
Dimensions
| Doors | - |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 997CC |
| Engine Size | 997L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | - |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Market Price
Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Have?
The 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Concours, while renowned for its bulletproof reputation, does have several frequently reported problems and areas requiring attention, particularly as the bikes age. One common issue across many model years, including 2000, involves the stator and voltage regulator/rectifier. Over time, these components can fail, leading to charging system issues, battery drain, and eventual electrical system shutdown. Owners often proactively upgrade to aftermarket rectifiers or stators for improved reliability. Another consistent complaint relates to the clutch master cylinder and slave cylinder, which can become stiff or develop leaks, requiring rebuilding or replacement.
Carburetor synchronization is crucial for smooth running, and the four Keihin CVK32 carbs can be prone to going out of sync, especially after extended periods of inactivity or if maintenance is neglected. This can lead to rough idling, poor throttle response, and reduced fuel efficiency. While not a "problem" per se, it's a regular maintenance item that, if ignored, feels like one.
The brake lines, being rubber, will eventually degrade and should be inspected and replaced, often with braided stainless steel lines, for improved braking feel and safety. The plastic fairing components and mounting tabs, after decades of heat cycles and vibration, can become brittle and crack, making removal and reinstallation challenging. Owners frequently find creative solutions for repairs or reinforce these areas.
While less common on the 2000 model year, earlier Concours models (pre-1994) sometimes had issues with the Kawasaki Positive Crankcase Ventilation (K-PVS) system, which was later revised or removed. The 2000 model benefits from these improvements. There have been no major widespread recalls specifically targeting critical safety components for the 2000 ZG1000-A that are widely known or still active, a testament to its robust original design. Long-term reliability is generally excellent, with many Concours bikes exceeding 150,000 to 200,000 miles with diligent maintenance. The shaft drive is a significant contributor to this long-term durability, eliminating chain maintenance and wear issues. However, the engine mounts, swingarm bearings, and suspension components will inevitably show wear with high mileage, requiring eventual refurbishment. Regular valve adjustments, oil changes, and attention to the cooling system are key to its longevity.
Carburetor synchronization is crucial for smooth running, and the four Keihin CVK32 carbs can be prone to going out of sync, especially after extended periods of inactivity or if maintenance is neglected. This can lead to rough idling, poor throttle response, and reduced fuel efficiency. While not a "problem" per se, it's a regular maintenance item that, if ignored, feels like one.
The brake lines, being rubber, will eventually degrade and should be inspected and replaced, often with braided stainless steel lines, for improved braking feel and safety. The plastic fairing components and mounting tabs, after decades of heat cycles and vibration, can become brittle and crack, making removal and reinstallation challenging. Owners frequently find creative solutions for repairs or reinforce these areas.
While less common on the 2000 model year, earlier Concours models (pre-1994) sometimes had issues with the Kawasaki Positive Crankcase Ventilation (K-PVS) system, which was later revised or removed. The 2000 model benefits from these improvements. There have been no major widespread recalls specifically targeting critical safety components for the 2000 ZG1000-A that are widely known or still active, a testament to its robust original design. Long-term reliability is generally excellent, with many Concours bikes exceeding 150,000 to 200,000 miles with diligent maintenance. The shaft drive is a significant contributor to this long-term durability, eliminating chain maintenance and wear issues. However, the engine mounts, swingarm bearings, and suspension components will inevitably show wear with high mileage, requiring eventual refurbishment. Regular valve adjustments, oil changes, and attention to the cooling system are key to its longevity.
How long will the 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A last?
The 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Concours is renowned for its incredible longevity, often referred to as a "workhorse." Based on owner data and diligent maintenance habits, it's not uncommon to find these bikes with well over 100,000 miles, and many owners proudly report mileage exceeding 150,000 or even 200,000 miles. With proper care, including regular oil changes, valve adjustments, and attention to the charging system, a Concours can easily provide 20-30 years of service. Its long-term durability is a major selling point. However, over time, weaknesses like the aging rubber components (hoses, seals), suspension wear (fork seals, shock rebuild), and potential electrical component fatigue (stator, regulator) become more prevalent. These are generally repairable and often less costly than replacing the entire bike, reinforcing its reputation for being a machine built to last.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
For a 2000-model year motorcycle, the concept of "built-in tech" and "driver-assistance" is vastly different from modern standards. The 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Concours featured a straightforward and functional approach to its amenities and safety.
Instrumentation and "Tech":
Entertainment Features:
Driver-Assistance Features:
Safety Features:
Optional Features and Aftermarket:
Kawasaki offered some optional accessories, such as a tank bag, saddlebag liners, and possibly a taller windscreen. However, the most significant "optional features" came from the aftermarket, including heated grips, auxiliary lighting, cruise control (mechanical), and upgraded seats, all aimed at enhancing comfort and long-distance capability.
Crash-Test Ratings:
Motorcycles, especially from this era, are not subjected to formal crash-test ratings similar to automobiles by organizations like NHTSA or IIHS. Safety is primarily assessed through braking performance, handling dynamics, and rider protection features like the fairing and robust construction.
Instrumentation and "Tech":
- Analog Gauge Cluster: Dominating the dashboard was a classic setup featuring large, easy-to-read analog dials for the speedometer and tachometer.
- Essential Gauges: A fuel gauge and engine temperature gauge provided crucial operational information.
- Warning Lights: Standard indicator lights for oil pressure, high beam, turn signals, and neutral were present.
- Clock: A small digital clock was integrated, a useful feature for touring.
Entertainment Features:
- None Standard: The ZG1000-A did not come with any integrated entertainment system from the factory.
- Owner Add-ons: Many owners retrofitted aftermarket sound systems, such as handlebar-mounted speakers or a small radio in the fairing, especially for long rides. Communication systems in helmets were also popular.
Driver-Assistance Features:
- Very Basic: True driver-assistance features like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), traction control, or ride modes were not available on the 2000 Concours. These technologies were still nascent or not yet applied to this class of motorcycle at the time.
- Adjustable Windscreen: A manually adjustable windscreen offered some degree of rider comfort enhancement by varying wind protection, though it required stopping to adjust.
Safety Features:
- Braking System: Equipped with dual front disc brakes and a single rear disc brake, providing adequate stopping power for its weight and performance. The system was conventional, without ABS.
- Visibility: A large, bright headlamp and taillight cluster ensured reasonable visibility. Full fairing-mounted turn signals were standard.
- Passenger Grab Handles: Integrated grab handles for a passenger enhanced two-up riding safety.
- Robust Chassis: A strong steel frame provided a stable and predictable ride, contributing to overall safety.
Optional Features and Aftermarket:
Kawasaki offered some optional accessories, such as a tank bag, saddlebag liners, and possibly a taller windscreen. However, the most significant "optional features" came from the aftermarket, including heated grips, auxiliary lighting, cruise control (mechanical), and upgraded seats, all aimed at enhancing comfort and long-distance capability.
Crash-Test Ratings:
Motorcycles, especially from this era, are not subjected to formal crash-test ratings similar to automobiles by organizations like NHTSA or IIHS. Safety is primarily assessed through braking performance, handling dynamics, and rider protection features like the fairing and robust construction.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Concours retailed for approximately $9,000 to $9,500. This represented excellent value for a full-featured sport-touring motorcycle at the turn of the millennium. As of today, the used market prices for a 2000 Concours can vary significantly based on condition, mileage, and maintenance history. Generally, well-maintained examples might fetch between $2,000 and $4,500. Poor condition or very high mileage units could be as low as $1,000 to $1,500, while exceptionally clean, low-mileage examples with desirable upgrades might exceed $5,000.
Depreciation for the Concours has been substantial over two decades, which is typical for most motorcycles. However, its long production run and legendary reliability have helped it retain a certain baseline value. Factors affecting its current resale value include:
Depreciation for the Concours has been substantial over two decades, which is typical for most motorcycles. However, its long production run and legendary reliability have helped it retain a certain baseline value. Factors affecting its current resale value include:
- Condition: Fairing integrity, paint quality, rust presence.
- Mileage: Lower mileage generally commands higher prices, though Concours owners value well-maintained high-mileage examples.
- Maintenance History: Documented service records add significant value.
- Upgrades: Aftermarket items like upgraded suspension, braided brake lines, or comfortable seats can enhance appeal.
- Geographical Location: Market demand varies by region.
2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Concours is generally considered economical, especially given its capabilities. Insurance costs are typically moderate for a sport-touring bike of this age, usually lower than pure sportbikes, but can vary by rider history and location. Fuel costs are reasonable, with owners frequently reporting 35-45 MPG from its 7.5-gallon tank, allowing for long stretches between fill-ups. Maintenance is a strong point; the shaft drive eliminates chain maintenance costs. Routine servicing like oil changes, tire replacements, and brake pads are standard. Repairs, while sometimes necessary for older components like the stator/regulator or clutch hydraulics, are often manageable for a mechanically inclined owner due to excellent parts availability and a large, supportive owner community. Overall, the Concours is a very cost-effective long-term ownership proposition, providing significant touring capability without breaking the bank.
2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
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Highway Mileage
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2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Warranty
Basic
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Powertrain
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Rust
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2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Insurance
Insurance for a 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Motorcycle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Compare to Other Motorcycle?
The 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Concours stood firm in the competitive sport-touring segment, often pitted against stalwarts like the Honda ST1100 Pan European, Yamaha FJ1200 (though older, still a rival), and BMW R1100RT.
Alternatives:
For those seeking better alternatives, a newer model like a Honda ST1300, Yamaha FJR1300, or a Suzuki Bandit 1200S (for a more sport-oriented approach) would offer more modern features like fuel injection and sometimes ABS. However, for a similar budget-friendly, highly reliable sport-tourer, the Honda ST1100 remains an excellent, slightly more refined alternative to the Concours.
- Performance:
- ZG1000-A Concours: Its 997cc inline-four delivered strong, smooth power (around 80-85 rear wheel hp) and respectable torque, making it surprisingly quick for a tourer. The 6-speed transmission and shaft drive provided a direct, low-maintenance experience.
- Honda ST1100 Pan European: Powered by a V4 engine, the ST1100 offered slightly smoother power delivery and often felt more refined, though perhaps a touch less "sporty" than the Concours. It was known for its exceptional long-distance comfort and stability.
- BMW R1100RT: The Boxer twin engine of the BMW provided a unique character with strong low-end torque. The R1100RT was typically heavier and more focused on luxury touring, with less outright sport performance than the Concours.
- Features:
- ZG1000-A Concours: Standard with a full fairing, integrated hard bags, and basic but comprehensive instrumentation. It was a no-frills, functional tourer.
- Honda ST1100 Pan European: Generally offered a slightly more plush ride and often came with more refined ergonomics and sometimes optional ABS (depending on market/year). Its fairing often provided superior weather protection.
- BMW R1100RT: Renowned for its advanced features for the time, including optional ABS, heated grips, and an electrically adjustable windscreen. It was the "luxury" option.
- Reliability:
- ZG1000-A Concours: Legendary for its robustness and mechanical simplicity, often reaching very high mileages with good maintenance. Known issues like stators or clutch hydraulics are generally repairable.
- Honda ST1100 Pan European: Also incredibly reliable, perhaps even more so than the Concours in some aspects, particularly in terms of electrical system durability. Often considered the benchmark for trouble-free touring.
- BMW R1100RT: While generally reliable, the Boxer engines could have specific maintenance needs (e.g., final drive issues in some years) and parts were typically more expensive.
- Price:
- ZG1000-A Concours: Consistently the value leader, offering substantial touring capability for a significantly lower price both new and in the used market.
- Honda ST1100 Pan European: Priced higher than the Concours new, and still commands a slightly higher premium in the used market due to its refinement and strong reputation.
- BMW R1100RT: The most expensive of the group when new, and typically retains the highest used value, reflecting its premium branding and features.
Alternatives:
For those seeking better alternatives, a newer model like a Honda ST1300, Yamaha FJR1300, or a Suzuki Bandit 1200S (for a more sport-oriented approach) would offer more modern features like fuel injection and sometimes ABS. However, for a similar budget-friendly, highly reliable sport-tourer, the Honda ST1100 remains an excellent, slightly more refined alternative to the Concours.
Final Verdict: Is the 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A a Good Motorcycle?
The 2000 Kawasaki ZG1000-A Concours is an ideal motorcycle for the budget-conscious rider seeking a reliable, comfortable, and capable sport-touring machine. It's perfect for long-distance commuters, weekend explorers, and riders who appreciate mechanical simplicity and DIY maintenance. Its shaft drive, robust engine, and generous fuel capacity make it a true highway warrior.
Is it worth buying? Absolutely, especially in the used market. It offers an unparalleled bang-for-your-buck ratio for a touring motorcycle. It's worth buying if you are looking for a highly dependable, proven platform and are willing to perform routine maintenance and address age-related wear common to any two-decade-old vehicle. Look for well-maintained examples with documented service history, focusing on models where the charging system has been addressed or updated. It's an excellent choice for riders who prioritize practicality, reliability, and value over cutting-edge technology or outright performance.
Is it worth buying? Absolutely, especially in the used market. It offers an unparalleled bang-for-your-buck ratio for a touring motorcycle. It's worth buying if you are looking for a highly dependable, proven platform and are willing to perform routine maintenance and address age-related wear common to any two-decade-old vehicle. Look for well-maintained examples with documented service history, focusing on models where the charging system has been addressed or updated. It's an excellent choice for riders who prioritize practicality, reliability, and value over cutting-edge technology or outright performance.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.