Yes, it came from the 1980s. But somehow these Eddie Lawson Replica KZ1000R (and KZ1100R) models continue to exude charm. Maybe it is the acreage of lime green paint. Perhaps it is the retro hot rod look of the big air-cooled motor, flimsy conventional forks, tiny brake disks and twin shocks. The Kerker pipe certainly lends some retro prestige. For whatever reason, these ELR models really seem to stir up some emotion – and continue to hold their own after 30 plus years (yes, it HAS been that long). Boomers in the collecting phase of their lives have taken notice, and older Gen-Xers might be counted as well. That which was cool in youth is cooler when you have the cash to spend, and that available cash continues to drive up the prices on all things Lawson. While these might have been $5k bikes years ago, the trend is moving much, much higher (with ambitious asks above the $20k mark). This example looks to be a very clean restoration, sports “Steady Eddie” Lawson’s signature on the tail, and is not 100% sorted. The ask is a very cool $16k which begs the Jalopnik “nice price or crack pipe” vote. So which is it in your book?
1983 Kawasaki ELR 1000 for sale on eBay
From the seller:
I am selling for a friend a 1983 Super Bike Replica with low miles in which I have no reason to doubt. This is a new restoration due to the bike being outside for a few years. It has new tires and brake pads. The calipers and master cylinder have been rebuilt and bled with Dot 5 Synthetic brake fluid. Engine side covers have been re powder coated. Valve clearance has been checked and did not require shims. No engine oil leaks. New chain and sprockets. I ran this on a shop I.V. bottle. The original petcock does not work and may need rebuilding. This will be shipped without fuel and battery. It has NOS hand grips and bar sliders. Complete tool kit and owners manual. The paint is high quality two stage urethane, the decal kit was NOS. Tail piece signed by the man himself. This would be a nice addition to anyone’s collection.
MI
