Posts by tag: Kawasaki

Kawasaki December 3, 2020 posted by Mike

The Way Things Were: 1984 Kawasaki GPz 550

Orwellian theory aside, big brother was indeed watching in 1984. In fact, the whole world was watching in 1984, as the last truly competitive “old school” middleweight sport bike strutted its stuff. Today this is better known as a classic – even potentially an antique given its 36-ish years of age – but back then this was the pinnacle of what we in the US considered a smaller motorcycle. The 550cc set was what constituted the middleweight class in the 1980s (save for the odd Yamaha 350cc RZ or 600cc FJ) and Kawasaki threw everything they had into the last year of the GPz 550. This glorious time capsule is waiting to bring back the memories of synthesizer-driven music, Ghostbusters at the box office, and Dynasty on the tube.

1984 Kawasaki GPz 550 for sale on eBay

Even by standards of the day, the GPz was far more evolution than revolution. Honda had released the 500cc Interceptor, Yamaha had liquid cooled the spirit of the RD350, and everywhere there were new and cutting edge motorcycles to be found. But the GPz excelled against more modern foe with solid handling, decent power and upgraded chassis and componentry. While only air cooled and breathing through two valves per cylinder, the GPz was good for 65 horsepower. Triple disk brakes helped with the stopping duty. The forks up front were complemented by an anti-dive mechanism, and a modern rising rate “Uni Trak” single shock held station out back. The double down-tube steel frame was beefed up to handle the additional power, and the whole package was topped off with bigger brother’s 3/4 fairing and nifty LCD display located on the tank. In this final year the GPz was truly a polished package, showing methodical upgrades and updates since inception.

From the seller:
Mint mint mint! This 550 GPZ is an example of a absolutely mint condition unrestored survivor. This bike starts and runs flawlessly buy it, ride it, display it, whatever you feel necessary to enjoy this classic time machine. Please look at all the photos and you will see how nice this bike is and sorry if I sound like I’m bragging but it will be hard-pressed to find another this nice! title is being transferred into my name should have it back in 5 to 6 days. Everything is done online with the new Covid restrictions. I can store this bike as long as needed for you to find a shipper.I would be glad to provide you a video of the bike running, riding, or just another walk around…

The whole GPz line (1100, 750, 550, 305) performed well for Kawasaki, and built a solid fan base. The future was only days ahead, with the introduction of the GPz900 “Ninja” and the follow-on 600cc variant, but for this year anyway, the GPz 550 ruled the roost. Available in red with white/blue stripes as well as silver with black/red accents, the 1984 model can best be identified via the LCD panel and the unique to this year 3-spoke wheels. Today’s example is the more popular Kawi Red, and it looks to be extremely clean. The black chrome looks immaculate (something that was pretty fragile in the early GPz years), the decals are in great shape, and the bike appears generally devoid of scrapes & scratches (although I *may* detect some rash at the extreme end of the right-hand side muffler).

This 1984 Kawasaki GPz 550 appears to be completely stock except for the foamie handgrips – which is not a big deal IMHO. With 14,000 and change on the clocks, this is not a new bike, but hardly over-used. The best part is the Buy It Now price of a lowly 5 grand USD. That is a LOT of nostalgia and fun for not that much dosh. Check out all of the details here, and be sure to share your GPz stories with us in the comments. Stay safe, and good luck!!

Featured Listing November 12, 2020 posted by Mike

Featured Listing: 1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R ELR

The RSBFS faithful see the green paint, the giant black lump of air-cooled, four cylinder goodness, the gold accents, and instantly know this bike as an ELR: Eddie Lawson Replica. Eddie was responsible for Kawasaki championships in the 1981 and 1982 AMA Superbike series. The homage was well deserved, and Eddie has been inextricably linked to these models ever since. Technically the 1983 KZ1000R was officially branded as “Superbike Replica” and does not exhibit Eddie’s signature on the tank (Lawson had moved to the Yamaha GP team after 1982), but the blanket term of “ELR” continues to stick for these models. Today’s Featured Listing is brought to us by a RSBFS regular Bob Benyo, a true guru of this specific model. This 1983 KZ1000R is about as perfect as one could hope to find, and I’ll let Bob pick up the story at this point.

Featured Listing: 1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R ELR

From the seller:
1983 KAWASAKI KZ1000R EDDIE LAWSON SUPERBIKE REPLICA NEAR PERFECT UN-RESTORED ORIGINAL CONDITION! ! MULTIPLE AWARD WINNING WITH ALL “NOS” BODY PARTS COMING OUT OF MY PRIVATE COLLECTION.

MULTIPLE AWARD WINNER JUST WON 1ST PLACE BEST ORIGINAL JAPANESE MOTORCYCLE. THE JUDGES FROM THE PEBBLE BEACH EVENT WERE BLOWN AWAY AT HOW PERFECT SHE IS.

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 (ABOUT 200 MILES IN 5 YEARS. SHE LOOKS AND RIDES AS GOOD AS SHE DID BACK IN 1983.

More from the seller:
THE ENGINE:
SERIAL NUMBER KZT00JE041780 THIS 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 VIN# 1983 ELR.

WITH ONLY 1776 MILES ON IT THE ENGINE RAN GREAT WHEN I GOT HER BUT I OPTED FOR HER TO RUN A BIT BETTER SINCE I WANTED TO RIDE TO AND FROM SHOWS. 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.

More from the seller:
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 MATCH THE ORIGINAL KAL*GARD FINISH. IT IS 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 RIDICULOUS AMOUNT OF NOS/OEM HARDWARE WAS USED. AS ALL THE “NOS” ELR PARTS HAVE DISAPPEARED FROM THE MARKET YOU CAN ONLY IMAGINE THE VALUE THIS BIKE WILL BRING IN THE FUTURE.

More from the seller:
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 SHE SELLS, BUT I AM BLESSED TO HAVE A FEW MORE ELR’S.

I HAVE OWNED MORE THEN 20 ELR’s. I 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 IN 1980.

More from the seller:
THIS ELR BELONGS IN A MUSEUM SO DON’T MISS OUT. I RESTORED AND PRESERVED MORE BIKES THEN I CAN COUNT AND HAVE MANY SATISFIED OWNERS AROUND THE WORLD WITH GIANT SMILES ON THERE FACES EVERY TIME THEY LOOK AT WHAT THEY PURCHASED FROM ME.

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 AS PERFECT AS THIS ONE.

THE ORIGINAL TOOL KIT, OWNERS MANUAL, AND 2 KEYS COME WITH THE BIKE. THE FIRST BUYER TO HIT THE BUY IT NOW WILL GET MY AUTOGRAPHED CUSTOM PAINTED 1983 BELL HELMET.

With flawless bodywork and paint, engine cases that you can eat off of, 1776 miles on the clock, and the exclusivity of owning an extremely rare milestone of motorcycle collecting history, this ELR deserves a home where it will be appreciated. Appreciation is the name of the game, after all: the price point for ELRs continues to climb to new heights, and show few signs of abating. Think of an ELR as the RC30 of an earlier age – about as recession proof as anything you are likely to collect in the motorcycle world. With a Buy It Now of $35.5k USD, this bike is priced in line with its condition. We have seen less expensive ELRs on this site, but never one quite as clean and complete (and just check out that man cave!). If you are in the market for an Eddie Lawson Superbike Replica, do yourself a favor and check this one out. You will not be disappointed. Good Luck!!

Kawasaki September 18, 2020 posted by Aaron

Featured Listing: 1981 Kawasaki GPz550

The early 1980s were a bad time for speed. With a very few exceptions, cars had spent the previous decade becoming wheezy, lumbering and compromised. Motorcycles were yet to fully cross the Rubicon from being either quirky runabouts or the steeds of tattooed heathens to the mounts of true enthusiasts. And then in 1981, Kawasaki decided they had had enough, and unleashed the GPz550 on the public.

Just in time for Eddie Lawson to take home his first AMA Superbike title and second AMA 250cc road racing title, the GPz550 carried on the fine tradition of Kawi’s two-stroke triples with staggering speed, but added what at the time was laser-precise handling. Imagine crawling to your office job in some horrible, oversprung, Naugahyde-upholstered slug only to have one of these come screaming past.

The little air-cooled four-pot produced a stout 55-ish horsepower, and exhaled through an evil-looking set of blacked-out pipes. The bikini fairing was enough to set the thing apart from the sea of CB750s, but Kawi made sure the message landed with scarlet paint set off by a pair of navy and silver stripes.

The power meant 12-second quarter mile runs and a top end damn near 120 mph. To give you some context: It would be another nine (9) years before a stock Chevrolet Corvette would drop back into the 12s.

This 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 shows well, but carries some signs of its age and use. There are spots of corrosion here and there, some paint chips and the fork seals reportedly leak. The carburetors apparently were recently cleaned and the clutch adjusted, so with some minor fettling it should be ready to go.

For the full litany, check out the auction on BringATrailer. The auction is no-reserve, which means the high bidder goes home with this piece of sportbike history. Get in line while you still can.

Kawasaki 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

Kawasaki 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

Kawasaki 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!!