Kawasaki Zx 750 P2 (1997)
1997 Kawasaki Zx 750 P2
CarHunch analysed 387 real MOT records for the 1997 Kawasaki Zx 750 P2. This breakdown of actual test outcomes — pass rates, defect profiles, mileage data — isn't published anywhere else.
This 1997 Kawasaki ZX 750-P2 has a first-time MOT pass rate of just 24.1%, far below the UK average of 80%, which is a significant red flag for reliability. Only 3.1% have ever shown dangerous defects, so while the bike struggles to pass inspection, it's not typically a safety hazard—just needs regular attention.
At a median of 22,501 miles, these bikes are relatively low-mileage for their age, yet they're still generating 0.29 failures and 0.7 advisories per vehicle on average, suggesting age-related wear rather than abuse. If you're considering one, budget for pre-purchase inspection by a Kawasaki specialist and plan for ongoing maintenance; this isn't a neglect-proof classic.
What to check before buying a 1997 Kawasaki Zx 750 P2
Practical pre-purchase checks for this age and model.
- 📋 Check the full MOT history. Look for recurring advisories — slow-building issues like corrosion or brake wear patterns show up years before they become failures. Enter the reg below for a full AI analysis.
- 🔍 Inspect for corrosion in person. Brake pipes, sills, subframes, and chassis legs. Surface rust is normal at this age; structural rust is a serious problem that's expensive to fix and can fail an MOT.
- 🛞 Check tyres and brakes. The most common advisory items at this age. Budget for replacement if they're near the limit — factor this into your offer price.
- 📄 Run an HPI check. The MOT history won't show outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen status — an HPI check will.
Before you buy a Kawasaki Zx 750 P2
MOT history is one piece of the puzzle. These checks can reveal what CarHunch can't.
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Pass Rate by Fuel Type
| Fuel type | Vehicles | Pass rate | Avg failures |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol (98%) | 381 | 22.9% | 0.3 |
| Other (2%) | 6 | 100% | 0 |
Mileage Distribution
Most 1997 Kawasaki Zx 750 P2 vehicles sit in the blue band. If the car you're looking at is outside it, it's either unusually low or high mileage for its age.
Half of all 1997 Kawasaki Zx 750 P2 vehicles fall between 17,613 and 27,205 miles.
1997 Kawasaki Zx 750 P2 — Still on the Road
10 vehicles still getting MOTs in 2024 — 56% of the peak remain.
Based on vehicles from this manufacture year that had at least one MOT test in each calendar year. Data from 2014–2024.
MOT History Averages
Found a specific Kawasaki Zx 750 P2?
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