In the late 80’s, Kawi had some success with their KR250 road racer so they released the KR-1 as a wonderful little two-stroke race rep. It was quite successful, triggering increased competition from the big 4, and it set off a 250cc 2-stroke war among the Japanese – unfortunately us Americans didn’t get to enjoy these little demons. But here’s a rare example that’s made it to the US via England, and it’s more than a race replica – it’s a racer that’s been competing in USCRA (United States Classic Racing Association).
The seller is Vin Borbone, highlighted in this previous story on Bike-urious by Ray Sapirstein. He notes the following modifications/upgrades:
• ’89 Kawasaki ZXR400 front end K-tech springs and build.
• Dymag front wheel
• Suzuki RGV250 rear swing arm and 17” Suzuki rear wheel.
• Ohlins rear shock
• Stan Stephens 300cc stage 3 cylinders
• 30mm carbs, fresh reeds
• J&L SS expansion chambers
• New Dunlop Q3’s this year
• Spare rims with rains, new this year, never used.
• Boxes & boxes of spare parts including spare fairings, engines, transmissions, etc.
It was low-sided at a track day in June “so there is some fairing damage on the right side, but no damage beyond that.”
Find this KR-1 race bike for sale in Hampstead, New Hampshire for $8,000 here on Facebook.