In 1982, Kawasaki grabbed some headlines with their KZ1000-based Eddie Lawson Replica. But for riders who wanted 100+ horsepower in a more relaxed ride, the shaft-drive KZ1100A was sitting right alongside the ELR in Kawi dealerships.
In a ’82 review, Cycle Guide said “the new engine transforms what had been a freight train into a bullet train. The KZ11 accelerates like a bandit bike, not a touring bike; and thanks to the rubber engine mounts, cruising at 80 mph isn’t any more annoying than cruising at 45 mph. The real payoff for this performance boost, though, is an increase in the engine’s flexibility. You can lug the motor around town like a Harley or Yamaha and still have sufficient punch at hand if you need it. And then you can accelerate into a 100-mph streak like a KZ1300.”
This example (VIN: JKAKZBA18CA009510) shows 43,585 miles on the odometer and recently (within the last 200 miles) got a valve adjustment, new spark plugs, new top end gaskets, and a fluid flush. The seller says that it has been well maintained and that you won’t be disappointed – here’s hoping he/she’s correct! The seller makes no mention of modifications, though pod filters and a Kerker exhaust are evident from the photos. The bike also looks like it has held up quite well, cosmetically.
Find this Kawasaki KZ1100 for sale in Charlestown, New Hampshire for $2,350 here on Craigslist.