When it comes to rare, imported smokers, the Kawasaki KR-1 series is a hidden gem. While the world rides around on NS-Rs, RZs, RGs, RGVs and the like, few KR-1 models seem to come up for sale. Definitely the most unknown of the quarter liter two strokes, the KR-1 is a basic parallel twin following in the footsteps of the early 250cc RG. When released, the KR-1 briefly eclipsed existing performance benchmarks – Kawasaki had produced a competitive machine. The march of progress is inevitable, however, and the KR series was soon outclassed by the advent of the RGV. So in 1989 (some sources seem to indicate the 1990 model year) Kawasaki stepped up to the plate and introduced the KR-1S. The S model added power and handling to the basic KR-1, while reducing weight. Kawasaki again found itself with a competitive machine – briefly. In the 2 year span of the KR-1S, the competition moved forward again and Kawasaki bowed out of the quarter liter two stroke game for good. With the supply of KR-1 and KR-1S limited, these continue to be sought after models by collectors. This particular bike will be shipped to you directly from Japan.
1989 Kawasaki KR-1S for sale on eBay
From the seller:
In the series of the motorcycle which Kawasaki sold, KR-1 is a road racer replica of Kawasaki only 2 stroke 250cc.Mileage 42400km
The body work is painted by oneself and has scratches and a little cracks. The screen has a crack and stain. The forks has some rusts on the chrome and some oil is blurred. The back seat has a tear at the edge. The step is changed to BEET Full Bank back step.
Disc of thickness Front : 4.0mm Rear : 4.3mm
Of the two models, the higher-output KR-1S is the one you want. This particular bike has a bit of mileage on the clock, and sports the usual component erosion seen on Japanese bikes. Surrounded by ocean and without the luxury of indoor parking, nearly all bikes we see from Japan show signs of hard use and neglect. The aftermarket rear sets are a decent upgrade, although the rear brake master is missing the aluminum guard. Keen reader eyes will likely spot more areas of concern. The unknown is the mechanical condition; KR-1 models have a spotty reputation when it comes to reliability and build quality. All told, this is a pretty rare machine – if you are in the market, you might want to take a peek. Good Luck!
Nice, the rear brake lever accommodates Japanese and American feet. Looks like a strip down to the frame, I’d give her a good flogging first.
I have no idea how rare these are in the U.S, but here in Greece,you can buy one in the same condition for around 1.000$. For around 3.500$ you can buy an almost perfect one. So,from my point of view,a starting bid of 4.000$ for this specific bike is outrageous. But i guess these are extremely rare in the U.S,so the price is justified.
That bike is a collection of KR-1 and KR-1S parts maybe if your lucky it has in fact real kr-1s jugs and cdi box those are NOT kr1s wheels. The OEM wheels should be a 5 spoked design similar in look to the honda wheels or other kawies this one has the goofy split spoke wheels from a ZXR250 from like ’93 – ’95.
this bike didnt sell and was broken up for parts in Japan