1996 Kawasaki Eliminator Zl600b Sissy Bar

The 1996 Kawasaki Eliminator ZL600B (often simply called the ZL600 Eliminator) is a classic mid-1990s cruiser-style motorcycle from Kawasaki, featuring a liquid-cooled 592cc inline-four engine derived from the Ninja 600, wrapped in a low-slung, custom-inspired frame with a distinctly laid-back riding position. One of its signature rear-end accessories is the sissy bar, a vertical passenger backrest designed to enhance comfort and style for two-up riding.

The stock or period-correct sissy bar on the 1996 ZL600B is a chrome-plated, tubular steel backrest that mounts directly to the rear fender or subframe area, rising prominently behind the passenger portion of the dual seat. It typically stands about 12–16 inches tall (depending on exact configuration and any added pad height), with a gently curved or slightly arched top profile that gives it a classic cruiser aesthetic—evoking the look of 1980s/1990s American V-twin customs while fitting the Eliminator’s unique “street rod” vibe.

Key features and characteristics include:

Construction: Made from sturdy, bent steel tubing (usually 7/8-inch or 1-inch diameter) with a high-polish chrome finish that matches the bike’s abundant brightwork, including the exhaust, engine covers, and wheels. The chrome provides corrosion resistance and a gleaming appearance that complements the bike’s blacked-out engine and frame elements.

Design: The bar features a simple, minimalist loop or rectangular shape with clean, flowing lines—no excessive bends or ornamentation. It attaches via bolted brackets to factory mounting points on the rear subframe or fender struts, ensuring a secure, vibration-resistant fit. Some variants include small side braces or gussets for added rigidity.

Passenger Comfort: The primary purpose is to offer solid lower-back and mid-back support for the passenger, preventing them from sliding backward during acceleration or leaning into corners. It pairs perfectly with the bike’s stepped, two-tier seat.

Pad Integration: Many owners equip it with a removable or bolted-on sissy bar pad (often vinyl or leather-covered foam, in black or matching colors), which adds cushioning and a plush look. These pads are contoured to fit the bar’s curve and typically secure via straps, Velcro, or studs.

Optional Add-Ons: Aftermarket options (popular even back in the day) include versions with an integrated rear luggage rack—a flat, chrome-plated platform extending rearward from the bar’s base—for securing soft bags or small cargo without needing separate mounts. Brands like Hepco & Becker offered precise-fit chrome sissy bars with or without racks specifically for the 1995–1997 ZL600 Eliminator models.

Aesthetics & Functionality: On the Eliminator, the sissy bar accentuates the bike’s long, low profile and chopped rear fender, giving it a more aggressive, passenger-ready stance. It improves two-up confidence on highways or twisty roads while maintaining the bike’s nimble handling (thanks to the relatively lightweight ~460 lb wet weight). Without it, the rear looks more solo-oriented and minimalist.

Overall, the 1996 ZL600B sissy bar embodies the era’s blend of Japanese reliability and American cruiser flair—practical, durable, eye-catching chrome, and built for comfortable cruising with a passenger in style. If you’re restoring one or adding to a custom build, original or reproduction chrome units remain sought-after for that authentic factory look.