Posts by Category: Kawasaki

Kawasaki March 7, 2020 posted by Donn

Before Kris – 1988 Kawasaki KR-1

Update 3.7.2020: We first posted this KR-1 in September of last year. It’s back on eBay, this time with a buy-it-now of $8,400. Links updated. -dc

Kawasaki had a tiger by the tale in 1988, and for a season or two the KR-1 bested every RGV, TZR and NSR. Coming out of a collection, this KR-1 looks to have missed the scrapes most 250cc two-strokes got caught up in.

1988 Kawasaki KR-1 for sale on eBay

Kawasaki’s 249cc two-stroke might have been furthest from a real race bike, as there wasn’t a factory presence in the 250 category. Still the snappy parallel twin, with balance shaft, was eminently tuneable and the package very light. The 55 hp produced by the Integrated Power Valve System worked beautifully with just 271 lbs. of dry weight. The frame looked overbuilt but was a light alloy, and 41mm forks were up front with dual discs. Out back there was the Uni-Trak monoshock and an 18-inch rear wheel. Pillion accommodations put the lie to racey looking bodywork.

This Seattle owner has a few classic sportbike auctions going, and goes into detail about their KR-1:

Recently completely serviced and detailed with clear Washington state title. The KR-1 is considered to be the fastest and more lively two stroke 250 sports bike compared to all the other models in its class. The model was never imported in to the USA and is probably the rarest model in the 250cc two stroke sports bike category around the world. This particular Kawasaki KR-1 has just 8,298 miles, the bike is mostly all original and in exceptional preserved condition.

The body work is all original and is in very good condition, there are absolutely no cracks on any of the body panels but there are some minor nicks and scrapes. The wheels are perfect with no rock chips or scratches anywhere. The frame and engine have no major corrosion and are nice and clean. Overall cosmetically this bike is in very nice condition.

The bike runs and rides great, and shifts smoothly through all 6 gears. The carburetors were recently ultrasonically cleaned and adjusted, and a full service tune-up was performed which included new spark plugs, chain, air filter, brake pads, oil change, new tires, and fluids flushed. All of the lighting, switches, and electrical components work as they should.

These bikes were never imported into the USA, and very few were exported outside of Japan to any other countries so this is a very rare Kawasaki model.

Kawi and Suzuki traded the “fastest 250” back and forth a few times, with the KR-1S snatching it back before the factory decided to focus on their four stroke offerings. Though Suzuki had staying power, the KR-1 stole the moment in the very late -80’s. Early interest in the auction says the hammer might fall at a high price, but the new owner will have a sparkling and rare example.

-donn

Kawasaki March 5, 2020 posted by Donn

Dark Horse – 1996 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-7R with just 5,800 miles !

One of Kawasaki’s alternative livery used basic black instead of championship lime, but this carefully tended example is an eye-catcher even so.

1996 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-7R for sale on eBay

Right in the middle of the 1989-2003 model run, the ’96 was the first year where the rest-of-world and North American models had the same ZX-7R name. The classic 748 cc inline was carburetted and boasted 111 ponies. Intake runners were dialed back a few mm to improve throttle response, and mid-range torque was augmented by a crossover pipe between downpipes 1 and 4. Not messing with the good, the alloy twin-spar chassis can handle whatever comes its way and the conservative headstock geometry takes it all in stride. Components like the 6-piston front brakes and piggyback reservoir rear shock were definite improvements.

This Virginia owner took super care of this baby, and the detailed photos show no wear or corrosion, not even a rub on the heel guards. Rarely seen OEM mirrors and signals might actually work as intended. The rims look as though they’ve been subjected to just one tire change. From the eBay auction:

Bike still has over 99% of its original OEM parts – Bridgestone Battlax Hypersports and stainless steel front brake lines are not. Extremely well preserved and under 6K there’s not much of a service record here. Maintenance done recently – MOTUL 10W40 100% synthetic, OEM Kawasaki oil filter, MOTUL 7.5W 100% synthetic fork oil, MOTUL MC CARE chain clean and lube, OEM Kawasaki air filter, NGK spark plugs, OEM Kawasaki fuel filter, rear 41 PSI, front 37 PSI, P21S Carnauba Wax – check!

Clearly this bike is ready to show or ride to the beach, canyon. Runs like it looks, INCREDIBLE. Items included in sale: original owners manual, clear Exempt title, 2 keys and 1 spare, original sales ad, period correct never used tank bra, 100% original never used OEM Kawasaki tool kit. Rare was the factory Ebony with reflective iridescence decals that color morph in sunlight but rarer here is a true survivor time capsule ready to take you back – don’t miss it.

Though the street-going ZX-7R had grown up into a slightly overweight kit, the AMA Superbikes had to make room for Doug Chandler and his Team Muzzy special, who repeated in 1997. For a fan, this might be a perfect redux – hardly used, perfect shape, serious rather than flashy, and sensibly priced.

-donn

Dark Horse – 1996 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-7R with just 5,800 miles !

Featured Listing February 24, 2020 posted by Aaron

Featured Listing: 2002 Kawasaki ZRX1200R

This Featured Listing is part of the The Bob Benyo Collection. Thank you for supporting the site, Bob! -dc

This 2002 Kawasaki ZRX1200R is the perfect example of what is possible from Kawi’s early aughts muscle bike with a little attention and imagination. Our buddy Bob and his shop took a lot of time and care to modify the bike to give you the look of an Eddie Lawson Replica with the dynamics and handling of a modern sportbike. With a 4-1 Kerker, custom paint and custom upholstery, the bike looks nicer than any other ZRX we have seen.

2002 Kawasaki ZRX1200R for sale on eBay

Bob and his guys made the wise choice to leave the motor more or less alone, except for a jet kit and pod filters. That was a wise choice, as ZRXs will do multiple times the speed limit without even breathing hard. Leave from a light on a ZRX without keeping an eye on the speedo, and you’ll find yourself settling in to a nice fourth gear cruise at 80. In a 35. With the Kerker on board, everyone will know you’re coming long before the lime-green livery catches their eyes.

I’m going to let Bob run you down the particulars of this gorgeous ZRX.

From the eBay listing:

2002 KAWASAKI ZRX 1200R WORK OF ART, LOW ORIGINAL MILES, COMING OUT MY PRIVATE COLLECTION IN A STUNNING CUSTOM EDDIE LAWSON SUPERBIKE REPLICA THEME. NO EXPENSE WAS SPARED IN CREATING WHAT I BELIEVE TO BE THE BEST BIKE KAWASAKI EVER BUILT!

IF YOU HAVE NEVER RIDEN A ZRX 1100/1200 YOU NEED TO! I LOVE THE VINTAGE KAWASAKI AND SUZUKI’S FROM THE 70’S AND 80’S BUT LETS BE HONEST THEY DON’T EXACLY RIDE AND STOP LIKE WE ALL WISHED THEY DID. SO HERE YOU GET IT ALL, THE AWSOME LOOKS AND STYLING OF A EDDIE LAWSON SUPERBIKE REPLICA WITH THE COMFORT AND HANDLING OF A MODERN SUPERBIKE.

THIS BIKE WAS A LABOR OF LOVE TO BUILD IT INTO THE STUNNING EYE CATCHING AWARD WINNING JEWEL. I AM BUILDING 2 MORE RIGHT NOW, AND IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING A BIT DIFFERENT THEN THIS ONE LET ME KNOW.

I HAVE THE OEM EXHAUST, THE AIRBOX FENDER AND TURN SIGNALS. THE BIKE COMES WITH THE TOOL KIT, OWNERS MANUAL, AND 2 KEYS.

THE FRAME:

THE FRAME IS ALL ORIGINAL NEVER PAINTED, DAMAGED, AND NEVER DROPPED. THE BODY WORK WAS METICULOUSLY REPAINTED BY MY SHOP GLOBE MOTORCYCLES LIMITED THANK YOU PHIL FOR CREATING A WORK OF ART. USING ONLY PPG PRODUCTS THE EDDIE LAWSON GREEN HAS BEEN MATCHED PERFECTLY, THE PURPLE IS EXACT TO THE ORIGINAL USED ON THE 2002 UGLY GREEN/PURPLE ZRX. THE STRIPES HAVE BEEN ALL PAINTED ON, NO DECALS EXCEPT THE SUPERBIKE DECAL ON THE TOP OF THE TANK. THE WHITE KERKER IS REVERSE STENCIL AND THE GOLD STRIPE WAS ALSO PAINTED ON. A NEW WINDSHIELD AND MOUNTING HARDWARE WAS USED. NEW KAWASAKI TANK EMBEMS INSTALLED. THIS CUSTOM PAINT JOB WOULD COST YOU OVER $3500.

CUSTOM MADE THE SEAT TO MATCH THE BODY WORK, (YES WE DO THAT TOO). WITH A CUSTOM REAR FENDER AND MINI TURN SIGNALS SHE LOOKS AS FAST AS SHE IS.

THE CHAIN WAS UPGRADED TO A GOLD FINSH RENTHAL 530 R-4 AND A CUSTOM PAINTED GOLD 44 TOOTH (BIGGER THEN STOCK) REAR SPROCKET (YES A WHEELIE MACHINE).

NEW AVON AV80 3-D ULTRA TIRES 190/55 AND 120/70 WERE MOUNTED AND BALANCED ON THE BLEMISH FREE WHEELS. NEW EBC BRAKE PADS FRONT AND REAR WITH FRESH FLUID. BLACK AND GREEN SPOOL/SLIDERS INSTALLED.

THE GRIPS, LEVERS, GUAGES,MIRRORS, CONTROLS, HANDLE BARS, AND MASTER CYLINDERS ARE ALL NEW OR NEW LOOKING. THIS IS A SHOW BIKE YOU CAN RIDE AND BE PROUD OF.

THE KERKER EXHAUST IS NEW AND HAS A CUSTOM MADE COMPETITION BAFFLE AND SOUNDS LIKE THE BIKES DID BACK IN THE 1980’S THIS IS A MODERN EDDIE LAWSON REPLICA A TRUE SUPERBIKE.

THE ENGINE:

WITH ONLY 3000 MILES WHEN I GOT HER IT DIDNT NEED ANYTHING BUT I HAD TO PLAY.

I INSTALLED A HEAVY DUTY CLUTCH ASSEMBLY FOR BETTER TAKE OFFS.

THE CARBURETORS WERE ULTRASONICALLY CLEANED AND RE-JETTED TO PERFECTION WITH THE HELP OF A DYNO-JET STAGE III KIT.

K&N OVAL POD FILTERS WERE INSTALLED ALONG WITH A K&N CRANKCASE BREATHER. THE VALVE COVER BREATHER IS BLOCKED OFF. A 4* IGNITION ADVANCER IS INSTALLED.

DON’T MISS OUT ON A BIKE YOU WILL LOVE TO RIDE.

I WILL INCLUDE A BRAND NEW SHOEI X-14 TC-4 WITH THE BIKE

THIS IS A BIKE YOU WILL DISPLAY PROUDLY AND RIDE WAY AHEAD OF THE PACK. IT IS THE BEST LOOKING ZRX I HAVE EVER SEEN. I HAVE BEEN RIDING, RACING, BUILDING, REPAIRING, AND COLLECTING RARE BIKES (SEE MY OTHER LISTINGS) SINCE GRADUATING FROM AMERICAN MOTORCYCLE INSTITUTE (AMI) IN DAYTONA BEACH FL IN 1980. PLEASE LOOK AT SOME OF MY OTHER LISTINGS TO SEE THE AMAZING RESTORATION AND CUSTOM WORK MY GUYS AND I DO. THIS IS MY HOBBY I TAKE PRIDE IN EVERY BIKE AND ONLY SELL A FEW PER YEAR.

LETS KEEP E-BAY A GREAT PLACE TO BUY AND SELL. PLEASE ONLY BID IF YOU PLAN ON BUYING THE BIKE. CALL ME WITH ANY QUESTIONS BOB 954-816-0806.

I CAN HELP ARRANGE SHIPPING AND CAN STORE THE BIKE IF NEEDED.

$500 DEPOSIT WITHIN 24 HRS AND THE BALANCE IN CASH OR BANK WIRE

For way less than the cost of an original ELR, this thing will give you the right look and the modern riding experience to match. If you’re into big bruisers, this thing is not to be missed.

Featured Listing: 2002 Kawasaki ZRX1200R

Featured Listing February 20, 2020 posted by Aaron

Featured Listing: 1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R Eddie Lawson Replica

This Featured Listing is part of the The Bob Benyo Collection. Thank you for supporting the site, Bob! -dc

This 1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R Eddie Lawson Replica makes as much of a statement today as it did when it rolled out of Minato City 37 years ago. In ‘83, the bikes announced what those who followed AMA Superbike racing already knew: That Japanese bikes were about to take over road racing for good, with the help of a brave, skinny Californian kid named Eddie Lawson. Today, this bike’s impeccable, unrestored condition sets it apart.

1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R ELR for sale one eBay

With Steady Eddie aboard, the KZ1000Rs stormed to the AMA Superbike title in 1981 and 1982, and the ‘83 ELR looked like it was an eyelash from the bike that did the deed.

The bikini fairing, boxy tank, deep-dished seat and ducktail rear cowl were lifted right from the 1982 GPz1100, but the unmistakable lime green and electric blue livery were all racebike. Gold wheels finished off the look, and a Kerker pipe and reservoir shocks meant it sounded fierce and handled its weight and power with aplomb.

This one has fewer than 1,800 miles on the clock, and has had a minor refresh but is otherwise as it was purchased. The clutch is new, the carbs have been freshly cleaned and painted, and couple cosmetic pieces were swapped out for NOS parts. Otherwise, it’s all original. As a bonus, it will be supplied with a set of NOS bodywork, from the fenders to the tank.

From the eBay listing:

1983 Kawasaki kz1000r Eddie Lawson superbike replica near perfect all original! Multiple award winning with all “NOS” body parts coming out of my private collection.

Multiple award winner just won 1st place best original Japanese bike. The judges from the pebble beach event were blown away at how perfect she was.

This bike underwent minor clean up/refresh at my shop globe motorcycles limited. I used a full set of “NOS” body work so very hard to find i only have 2 full sets left. I swaped out the engine side covers with “NOS” units and new OEM gaskets and seals.

I have had this bike for several years and it has been the elr that i ride. She looks and rides as good as she did back in 1983.

The engine:
Serial number kzt00je041780 the engine is the original that came with the bike. I get asked this question all the time, why are’nt the ELR engine numbers ever close or similar to the frame numbers? The engine numbers have a specific range they must fall into for 1982 and 1983 kz1000r’s. This is the engine that came with the bike when she was new and is in the correct serial number range for a late 1983 elr.

With only 1789 miles it the engine ran great when i got her but i opted for her to run a bit better since i wanted to ride her. I installed a new hd clutch, all new OEM seals, pushrod, and gaskets (its just what i do). The engine itself has never been painted so no paint whent where it does not belong. The engine side covers were replaced with “NOS” units, very hard to find.

The carburetors were completely disassembled ultrasonically cleaned, and painted just as the factory did, resembled and synchronized. I re-jetted them with #132 main jets and raised the jet neddle with one washer to aid in running better with the competition baffle.

The frame:

The frame and swing arm are all original paint and look better then any of the other original elr’s i have had.
The tires have been replace with Dunlop k400’s (k300’s are not available). The grips, levers, mirrors, , end caps are all “NOS”.
The seat is all original with no blemishes.

The Kerker KR exhaust is the original unit that i had re coated to the original kal*gard finish and installed with OEM copper gaskets. The Kerker side emblem, the hanger bracket/bushing assembly, and the large competition baffle are all NOS ($500). The fuel tank, petcock, fuel guage sender, fuel cap, side covers, front cowl, rear cowl, front fender, tail light, wind shield and rubber seal, emblems, and associated hardware are all “NOS over $7500 worth of unobtainium. A modest amount of NOS/OEM hardware was used.

Tell your wife this is a great investment that will only go up in value unlike her shoe and handbag collection :). So here is your chance to own the best example of 1 of the 750ish 1983 Kawasaki kz1000r Eddie Lawson superbike replica’s ever built for north America. It is as close to when it came out of the crate with the exception of the Dunlop k400 tires and a very small amount of patina on the wheels. I will refinish the wheels to exact OEM specs for the new caretaker at my cost if he or she prefers “NOS” looking wheels (a very expensive process). I will for sure cry when it sells but i am blessed to have a few more ELR’s.

I have owned more then 20 ELR ‘s in the 15 years and have the largest inventory of ELR parts so bid with confidence. This bike will not disappoint. Please feel free to contact me with any questions 954-816-0806 Bob. Please come see her first if you have any doubts. I have been riding, racing, fixing, restoring, and collecting special bikes since graduating from American motorcycle institute “AMI” in Daytona beach Florida.

This ELR belongs in a museum so don’t miss out. I restored and preserved more bikes then i can count and have satisfied owners around the world with giant smiles on there faces every time they look at what the bought. The last 2 ELR s i sold (a 1982 and a 1983) went to Japan. They both had NOS body parts on all original bikes with low miles and sold for $28,500 and $36,000 and just not a perfect as this one.

The original tool kit, owners manual, and 2 keys come with the bike. The first buyer to hit the buy from the 2 ELR’s i have for sale will get my autographed custom painted 1983 bell helmet. The second one will end up with a custom painted 1983ish bell helmet that we will have to send to Eddie and wait for him to sign it.

Lets keep e-bay a great place to do business and only bid if you are planning to buy it.

$1000 deposit and the balance within 3 business days in cash or bank wire. I can store the bike for a few months and help arrange shipping

With ELRs getting rarer by the day, and NOS bodywork essentially unobtanium, we imagine it would be impossible to find another one like this. It’s a collector’s dream and an absolute museum piece.

Featured Listing: 1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R Eddie Lawson Replica

Featured Listing February 18, 2020 posted by Mike

Featured Listing: 1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R ELR

This Featured Listing is part of the The Bob Benyo Collection. Thank you for supporting the site, Bob! -dc

Kawasaki won the AMA Superbike championship in 1981 and again in 1982, thanks in part to a young rider known as Eddie Lawson. To celebrate the championship and build better brand awareness, Kawasaki built a lime green replica race rocket in 1982 commonly known as the Eddie Lawson Replica (ELR). The official name for the bike was the KZ1000R, which was based on the “J” model KZ1000. Kawasaki modified the top end with parts from the GPz1100 to create a hybrid 1 liter super bike good for 102 HP and 130+ MPH. Besides, it simply looked screaming fast even when on its side stand (no center stand included). Today’s ELR is a 1983 model – which, technically, was called the Superbike Replica since in that year Lawson jumped to 500cc GP racing under the Yamaha banner. But to fans, these models will always be ELR – missing only the number 21 on the number plates. And speaking of 21, this particular bike probably scores a 21 on a scale of 1-10 when it comes to condition. Originally owned (and raced) by Terry Vance from Vance & Hines Racing, this KZ1000R has been reborn as a perfect-as-you-can-get example of the breed, with no part passed over. Read on from the seller, and dive deep into this glorious restoration.

1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R ELR for sale on eBay

From the seller:
1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R Eddie Lawson replica museum quality concours d’ elegance award winning “OCD” restoration with all “NOS” body parts coming out of my private collection.

Multiple award winner just won “Best in class” in the Boca Raton concours d’ elegance for best restoration. The judges from the Pebble Beach event really thought it just came out of the crate! They were blown away at how perfect the restoration was.

This bike underwent a massive full nut and bolt “OCD” restoration at my shop Globe Motorcycles Limited. With over 500 man hours this was by far my most extensive restoration Gaston, Phil and myself have ever done. I used a full set of “Nos” body work so very hard to find I only have 2 full sets left. Digging in deep into my large inventory of “NOS” and spare ELR parts I use a massive amount of parts that are now impossible to find. There is over $15,000 worth of “NOS” parts on this bike.I will try to list them all but I am sure I will leave out so many that the new caretaker will see when he or she is staring at it for hours and hours.

The bike came to me from a collector that bought it from Terry Vance yes that Terry Vance. Terry had used it in late 1983 and into 1984 as his Kawasaki Pro Stocker winning the NMRA portion of the NHRA Winston World Finals (see the article in Cycle World 1983). Byron Hines was out to prove he could build any of the 4 Japanese brand engines into world class winners. After winning Terry used it as a display at the track but Suzuki was less then happy with that idea it ended up in the back of a shipping container for over 25 years. Missing many OEM parts and with the frame raked for drag racing (the original engine came with it as Byron built up a GPz1100 for the track) it was in need of some serious help. With only 1500 on the engine that was easy part of this project. I sent the frame to the best frame Dr. in the US GMD motorcycle frame shop outside Atlanta GA. Using the latest technology Kent brought the frame right back to OEM specs (not a fast or inexpensive process). Then the magic began.

More from the seller:
The engine:
Serial number kzt00je042085 the engine is believed to be the original that came with the bike. The ELR engine numbers are never close or similar to the frame numbers but have a specific range they fall into for 1982 and 1983. This is the engine that came with my purchase and is in the correct serial number range for an early 1983 ELR.

With only 1500 original miles it was disassembled inspected and reassembled with a new HD clutch and all new OEM seals and gaskets. The engine was painted with the correct low sheen while it was disassembled as the factory did so no paint whent where it does not belong. The engine side covers were refinished in the correct gloss black and the engraved covers highlighted with the correct gold paint.

The carburetors were completely disassembled ultrasonically cleaned, and painted just as the factory did, resembled and synchronized.

More from the seller:
The frame:
The frame and swing arm were sandblasted and treated for rust prevention primed and painted in the correct sheen using the best PPG products. All the bearings and seals replaced with OEM parts. All the cables replaced with OEM/NOS parts. The brake system was disassembled completely rebuilt with NOS/OEM parts boasting NOS/OEM front and rear rotors (can’t find them again $1400). The shocks were disassembled painted the correct gold and finished with original decals. The front forks were disassembled rebuilt with OEM parts and painted back to the original sheen and finished with the correct decal. The front and rear wheels were sand blasted primed and painted in the correct gold finish and the outer lip polished to the correct shine. The center spokes of the wheels still show the original small cuts from the machining when the wheel was manufactured (most restorers polish that away not good). NOS/OEM bearings/seals were installed(over 65 hrs just on restoring the wheels). The rear wheel hub/sprocket and chain assembly is NOS. Dunlop K400 series tires installed (K300’s not available). The grips, levers, mirrors, switches, end caps, foot pegs, turn signals, and all the hardware are NOS $$$$$. The seat cover and pading is NOS $$$$ it was the only NOS seat cover I have ever seen (priceless). The rear fender and chain guard are NOS. The Kerker KR exhaust, the side emblem, the hanger bracket assembly and the baffle are all NOS ($3000). The fuel tank, petcock, fuel gauge sender, fuel cap, side covers, front cowl, rear cowl, front fender, tail light, wind shield and rubber seal, emblems, and associated hardware are all “NOS” over $7000 worth of unobtainium. A ridiculous amount of NOS/OEM hardware was used, and the original hardware used was painstakingly individually prepped and re-stained in the correct dark green finish (not easy to do).

More from the seller:
Tell your wife this is a great investment that will only go up in value :). So here is the only chance you will probably ever have to own the best example of 1 of the 750ish 1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R Eddie Lawson replica’s ever built for north america. It is like it came out of the crate with the exception of the Dunlop K400 tires. I will for sure cry when it sells but I blessed to have a few more ELRs they just wont be as perfect.

The original tool kit, owners manual, and 2 keys come with the bike. I have owned more then 20 ELRs in the 5 years and have the largest inventory of ELR parts so bid with confidence this bike will not disappoint. Please feel free to contact me with any questions 954-816-0806. Hit the Buy It Now and I will throw in my autographed custom painted 1983 Bell helmet.

The Kawasaki KZ1000R is a hot commodity in the market these days. And with the original bike nearing forty years of age, time, use and the lack of spares has taken its toll on the available pool. With lower volume and high demand, prices follow. Bikes that you remember “back in the day” that you could buy used for lunch money have suddenly jumped to stratospheric levels. ELR models definitely apply here, as even rough examples are selling strong. And restoring one is no picnic – for many original parts are no longer available. To rebuild a bike that has the history that this one does, to the level that this bike has been painstakingly recreated, would take time and resources beyond the imagination. Likely the best example of the rare breed known as the ELR we have ever seen on these pages (and we have seen some pretty good ones that now pale in comparison) this particular bike is available right now on eBay. Check out the auction here and be astounded by the workmanship. You might be shocked by the values as well, but perfection does not come easy or cheaply. Ding the Buy It Now bell and score a matching helmet complete with Steady Eddie’s gold signature. Destined for museum duty, this 1983 Kawasaki ELR reminds us of the high water mark of old school Superbikes. Good Luck!!

Kawasaki January 23, 2020 posted by Aaron

Ride and cherish: 1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R ELR

The 1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R ELR is the ultimate expression of streetbike muscle from the era when racebikes actually were just tricked out street bikes with hot engine kits, big brakes and slicks. Without someone like Pops Yoshimura in your rolodex, you still weren’t gonna get close to Eddie Lawson’s horsepower numbers, but with a couple number plates and a decent imagination you wouldn’t be far off.

1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R ELR for sale on eBay

The 1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R ELR was the company’s marketing play on Eddie’s 1981 and 1982 AMA Superbike championships aboard a very green KZ1000. With bodywork from the previous year’s GPz, a warmed up engine and the hallmark bright green and blue bodywork over gold wheels, the look was perfect. The bikes were always meant to be a little extra special, so they sold few of them and the ones that remain are blue-chip collector bikes.

This one is a Canada-spec machine, with no smog equipment and a kilometers per hour speedo. It shows some wear and tear from its 37 years, but it feels nitpicky to mention them. With just under 11,000 kilometers on the dial, this thing has a lot of cruise nights left in it.

From the eBay listing:

1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R ELR (Canada / Europe spec) This model does not have engine head cover US emission valve as can be seen in photo. Speedometer in Kilometers. Very rare and hard to find period FOX race shocks. Bike is in very good condition with 6822 miles or 10979 Kilometers on the bike. 150PSI plus on all cylinder compression and valves adjusted. Repacked steering head bearings, new petcock seals, rebuilt front forks with seals and 20W fork oil. Good condition and painted side covers with decals and emblems as hard side cover grommets damaged the tabs on the side covers. Bike has new side cover grommets now. Owners manual and partial tool kit as can be seen in photo. Bike runs and have video of bike running . Shifts through all gears and no clutch issues. Brakes work as they should. All lights work. New Metzeler Sportec Klassik tires front and rear. New Yuasa battery.
Clear title in hand.

This bike is very clean and original, but not so gleaming that you’d feel bad about riding it, which we love. For someone out there, this bike is the perfect addition.

Ride and cherish: 1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R ELR

Kawasaki November 21, 2019 posted by Mike

Featured Listing: 1978 Kawasaki Z1R TC

Update 2.4.2020: This bike has SOLD at Bonhams Las Vegas. Congratulations to all parties! -dc

Update 11.20.2019: Joe’s bikes are being sold at Bonhams 2020 Las Vegas Auction. The auction is scheduled to take place on Thursday, January 23rd 2020 at Caesar’s Entertainment Studios, beginning at 12 noon. For information about the bikes and the auction itself, please visit – https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/25835/ You can also contact Michael Caimano directly at 929-666-2243 or Michael.Caimano@Bonhams.com

Check out all Joe’s bikes that are being offered at Bonhams. Good luck to bidders and seller! -dc

In the wonderful world of Turbo motorcycles, there are the “make your own” types, and the factory turbo offerings. But this special model, the mighty Kawasaki Z1R TC, not only blurs the lines between the two camps, it is also the very first in the factory turbo column. You see, the Z1R TC was sold through Kawasaki dealerships as a new model. However it was not (technically) a factory effort. The offspring of a mixed marriage, ex-Kawi exec Alan Masek convinced the Big K brass to ship bikes to his Turbo Cycle Company (TCC). Given the sluggish sales of the warmed over Z1R, this was no big feat. TCC applied an American Turbo Pak kit to the stock machines, and shipped the resultant mutants to select dealerships with a $1,400 premium tacked on to the sticker price. Appearing to be a factory effort – but devoid of the factory warranty – the Z1R TC went on to gain an incredible reputation for speed, on/off switch turbo boost behavior (Jeckyl & Hyde anyone?), and questionable longevity. For Kawasaki it was a huge win with very little risk. Today, these rare bikes are coveted by collectors world wide.

Featured Listing: 1978 Kawasaki Z1R TC!

The original Z1R TC bikes went out the door in stock Kawasaki colors; they were literally converted by TCC and kicked out of the shop. As the operation matured, several changes occurred. The first was a change to the exhaust plumbing and collector – in an effort to tame the boost. The next change was a new wastegate that limited boost to 6 PSI (the Gen I bikes had a fully adjustable wastegate). And finally the classic 1970s paint scheme emerged. These are all Gen II bikes, and can be identified by the “Molly Designs” logo on the tail section. With the new graphics the Z1R TC finally had the appearance to show off the induction upgrades. Today these Molly graphic bikes are the most desired of the Z1R TC set.

From the seller:
You should know that I am a serious collector, with a large motorcycle collection. I decided to sell some of the most valuable motorcycles in the collection. These motorcycles represent some of the most iconic motorcycles 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. Those motorcycles are now being offered up for sale one by one. Many years ago when the best of the best was available, and that is what I was buying, these motorcycles were targeted for my collection by me.

In general, I do believe super rare Italian motorcycle of the 1970s and 1980s are the future Ferrari of motorcycle collecting. We all know what has happened with the Ferrari market.

An exception is the Kawasaki Z1RTC.

More from the seller:
The rare bike in this ad is the 1978 Kawasaki Z1RTC. To me it is one of the greatest and rare motorcycle you can collect. It is a very limited production motorcycle especially in the Molly Graphics configuration. It is unbelievably fast and has an exhaust that is a thrill to listen to as it winds up through the gears. I purchased this Z1RTC from the original owner and it has not been taken apart or restored or manipulated. The original owner explained to me that this ZR1TC turbo is a Stage 3 which is the best of the best for Z1RTC turbos. The original owner told me he took the bike to a drag strip only once and turned 9.9 seconds in the quarter mile and described the feeling by saying, “it felt like his eyeballs were pinned to the back of his head”

The Z1RTC is all original except for the upgraded pressure gauge. Always kept on a trickle charger and ready to fly down the road.

They are only original once.

I would suggest that you check out the other rare cycles that I am offering for sale.

Thanks for looking at one of the best!

While the Z1R TC put Kawasaki on the map, not all was tea and roses. This was a serious motorcycle that demanded the best riders. Boost was not easily manipulated and the remainder of the stock Z1R pieces were not engineered for the upgrade. The complete lack of engine controls that we take for granted (computer controlled fuel injection, programmable ignition modules, rev limiters) made for a very fragile existence. There was actually recommendations in the manual that new owners upgrade to stronger valve springs, weld the crank and upgrade the clutch if the bike were to be used aggressively. When was the last time your owners manual made those types of modification suggestions? But given that there was no factory warranty, there was apparently little to lose.

These are mean, aggressive yet beautiful motorcycles. They chronicle an era where experimentation and entrepreneurship could coexist with a larger factory effort. And the epic bikes that resulted from these strange bedfellows strike awe and wonder in the hearts and minds of viewers – and riders. To find a totally stock Z1-R TC is an amazingly rare sight. This bike is very, very close to perfectly original, and has a very limited list of owners. It looks absolutely pristine and clean enough to eat off of – should you dare to commit such sacrilege. For those in the market for something unique and special, few bikes can compete with this beautiful 1978 Kawasaki Z1R TC. If previous listings of this model are any example, this one will go quickly. Boost on, and good luck!!

Kawasaki October 25, 2019 posted by Aaron

Red, white and smoky: 1985 Kawasaki KR250S

The 1985 Kawasaki KR250S was a street-going version of a two-stroke road racer that took home four championships in the 1970s. They weighed less than 300 pounds, made 45 horsepower and packaging was kept tight with a weird “tandem twin” engine design. The mill was essentially two singles in a line with a unified crank. Before the KR-1, this bike carried the two-stroke banner for Kawasaki.

1985 Kawasaki KR250S for sale on eBay

This 1985 Kawasaki KR250S is in excellent shape and was just imported to the U.S. from Japan. It wears the marks and blemishes of its years and has not been treated to U.S. paperwork. In California, you won’t have any luck with documentation, but it might be worth trying in other states. Even so, as a vintage ride, limited trackday mount or museum piece, there is real value to the collectors among you.

From the eBay listing:

1985 Kawasaki KR250S located at our shop in Santa Ana, California. The pictures in this auction were taken at our shop in Japan. This bike is in excellent condition for it’s age. Bike only has 2691 KM = 1614 Miles. Engine runs very good. KR250S in this condition are very hard to find in Japan now. More info is available on our website. Bike is sold with a bill of sale only. I don’t have a title for the bike and can’t get one here in California. If your living outside the USA, you will have to arrange your own shipping. I can recommend a good shipping company. USA buyers will also have to arrange there own shipping. Bike is sold as is, no returns. So, ask questions and look at the pictures carefully before you bid. Payment must be received no later than 3 business days after auction close. Sorry, no Paypal

With a starting bid at $6,200, this thing is prepped for the collector or the well-heeled two-stroke connoisseur, but we dare you to find another one.