It’s probably the Kawasaki owner in me that loves these bikes so much. Back in November, I drew your attention to a customized 1978 KZ1000 A2. But here’s an example that’s much more in line with what the manufacturer originally intended.
The bike has been restored, but the seller says that it’s been kept “as stock as possible.” Without question, one of the highlights is the presence of that original paint color. Why can’t Kawasaki offer its bikes in this shade of green anymore? [Editor’s Note: I will point out that Kawi came pretty close with one of the options on last year’s Z650RS but to Chris’ point, it’s not available anymore as they’ve gone to “Ebony” this year:]
Photo from Bikes Republic
Driven by a 1015cc air-cooled inline four, promising 83 horsepower, the KZ1000 was first introduced in 1976. Ostensibly a sporty model, it was almost immediately outshined by bikes from competitors and became, by default, a touring model.
“Yesterday’s rocket is like Saturday’s hero; it grows up and goes on to a broader range of pursuits,” Cycle World commented at the time.
With 24,500 miles on the clock, this particular example probably has plenty of life left for those pursuits. “She runs and sounds like new,” the seller claims. “Carbs were sent out and 100% rebuilt to factory specs with new OEM intake boots and airbox rubbers to the complete original airbox, with snorkel.”
Outside of that, it seems most of the work has been cosmetic, with the seller stating that the frame has been blasted and repainted, and the engine “soda blasted clean.” “All factory books included,” adds the seller. “Even have original title.”
You can find this KZ1000 in Wales, Massachusetts with a BIN of $12,500 here on eBay.