Posts by tag: kz1000r

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We have 15 years of archives. Please note that posts over a year old may have been updated to point to similar bikes available to bid on eBay.

Kawasaki October 2, 2013 posted by Ian

Kawgasm! 1982 Kawasaki KZ1000S1

Update 10.2.2013: Current bid is over $71k reserve met! With 7 hours to go, where do you think this one will finish? Leave a comment below! -dc

I didn’t think it could get much better than the Yoshimura/Honda CB750 from two weeks ago. Once again I’m proven wrong. Before you is the Holy Grail to Kawasaki collectors, a KZ1000S1. Basically the homologation special of the day with the 30 or so made not being made available to the general public.

1982 Kawasaki KZ1000S1 for sale on eBay

Straight to the engine porn! Here is the story:

If you’re one of the Chosen Few, you can now obtain the unobtainable; from the May 1982 Cycle magazine S1 review article. 29 of these motorcycles were imported for AMA superbike racing in 1982, dealer cost was $10,999.00. No retail price was listed. Several ended up being shipped out of the country. It is also my understanding that some were disassembled by Kawasaki to sell as parts. How many I do not know. So here is your chance to own a very rare motorcycle that is in excellent condition and that has a history, even if it is short. This particular bike was purchased by Grayboy Kawasaki in Peoria Heights, IL. The owner of the dealership at that time had a team running the Grand National circuit in dirt track. This bike was purchased by the owner to go roadracing with national expert rider (33) Dave Hebb of Canton,IL. His roadracing number was 93. This bike has one sprint race and two practices from one weekend of racing at Indianapolis Raceway Park in Clermont, IN. I’m not sure what happened after that, because the bike was put in storage at the dealerships warehouse until I purchased it in October of 1985. The bike was nevered titled until I purchased it from the dealership. So by the title, I’m the original owner. I have had the bike in a climate controlled storage (my house) since 1985. The cylinders were oiled and the engine was rotated over ever so often when in storage. It still has the original Dunlop Racing KR133 slicks mounted on the Dymag magnesium wheels. Also included is the factory spares kit. I also purchased some extra parts back in the mid eighties that are included. When I purchased the bike, my intentions were to license it and ride it on the street. But instead, I kept riding my 1984 900 Ninja because it was such a great bike. So I never got around to making the S1 street legal using Eddie Lawson replica parts. Spares kit includes left and right front brake rotors, rear brake rotor, three sets of front brake pads, two sets of rear brake pads, front axle, two pistons and rings, gearing, chain, staking master links , special tools, two sets of different rate fork springs, sprocket cush drive, assorted jetting, shorter velocity stacks, throttle cables, clutch cable, o’rings, oil seals, fork seals, etc. and two parts catalogs. I tried to show the condition of the vehicle with the photos. I changed oil and filter, put in 3 gallons of fresh Phillips 66 (111 octane) race fuel and started the bike before listing it here. The engine sounds as good as the day I purchased it

KZ1000R.com claims the only documented sale of a KZ1000S1 was back in 1997 for $40,000.

It has the look of just put a number plate on and race but it is far from stock: braced swing arm, extra frame bracing, Mikuni flatsides, Lockheed brakes, magnesium wheels etc, etc. I saw someone on a message board mention they used an ignition or CDI off a KX80; interesting.

Does anyone really pay attention to these stickers? I doubt this one will ever see any pavement or tarmac again.

I would imagine some of those items are as rare as the bike.

Well, the Yosh/Honda CB went for $30,100. Apparently the last known KZ1000S1 went for $40,000 back in 1997. What is the take it price home for this one?

Check the back account before placing a bid here.

Ian

Aprilia June 20, 2013 posted by Dan

Month in Review: May 2013 Sales Report

mayreport

Welcome back to our latest sales report, where savvy buyers and sellers keep an eye on market values. We blogged a record 85 bikes in May and witnessed an all-time high of 29 of our picks getting sold. In fact our readers bought 23 bikes in May! Here is a review of 29 of the 85 posted, most having sold.

Lowest sale price: $1380
Highest sale price: $25099

Congratulations to May’s buyers and sellers!

In no particular order, we start with this 1995 Ducati 900 SS/SP with 2000 miles that sold for $3650:

A highlight last month is this 1986 GSX-R 750 Limited Edition with less than 900 miles that sold for $22,400!

This 2001 Ducati 996SPS failed to sell after being bid to nearly $12k.

This very tidy but tiny Aprilia RS50 sold for a pint sized $2700 to one of our readers.

This stock 1985 Suzuki RG500 Gamma sold for $12,400.

This heavily modified 1986 Suzuki RG500 in Lucky Strike livery failed to sell the first time at $10,500 but sold after one relist for $16,000!

This 1990 BMW K1 with just 4200 miles sold for $13450, McDonalds colors be damned!

This very clean 1986 Suzuki GSX-R 750 sold for $7000, even with 30k miles!

This 1996 Suzuki GSX-R 750 might have been the bargain of the month selling at just $2550.

This amazing low mileage and stunning 1987 Suzuki GSX-R 1100 sold for $13100.

Someone scored on this 1986 Kawasaki ZX1000R Ninja that saw just 7400 miles. Sold for only $3750!

This 1991 Yamaha TZ 250 B racebike sold for $17500 but was relisted and sold again for $15500. Hopefully for good!

This well looked after 1993 Moto Guzzi Daytona 1000 sold for $8200.

This later 1997 Daytona 1100 with less than 7k miles failed to sell with bids reaching $9100.

Another great buy was this 1982 Honda CB 900F with 205 miles for only $6655. This won’t be depreciating any time soon.

Here’s a nearly new 999R with less than 1k miles that failed to sell at $16100.

This restored 1988 Suzuki GSX-R sold for a mere $6100 to one of our readers.

This 1996 Suzuki RGV250 Lucky Strike was no reserve and sold for $7500.

Here’s a Yamaha RZ500 that sold for a scant $6500.

This 1998 Yamaha R1 failed to sell at $8500 and has been relisted for $7500.

This cool 1985 Yamaha FZ750 survivor sold for $3850.

Here’s a 1987 Suzuki GSX-R50 that sold to one of the RSBFS superfans for $1380.

This 1983 Suzuki XN85 Turbo is one of several we posted recently and it sold for $5451.

This 1994 Yamaha YZF-750R was also well bought at just $2200.

This 1986 Suzuki GSX-R 750 Limited sold for $12721.

A very striking 2006 Ducati Paul Smart 1000LE sold for $17000.

This spotless 1998 Aprilia RS250 set a new record selling for $9950.

This 1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R ELR failed to sell the first time at $8500 buy-it-now, but was relisted twice and sold for $6500.

The top seller this month was this 1979 Kawasaki Z1R TC2 Turbo for $25099.

This 1994 Bimota DB2 appears to have sold for good this time at $7400.

The great pumpkin 1982 Laverda Jota sold for $20255!

This 1993 Ducati Superlight failed to sell at $9499.

This XN85 Turbo sold for just $4000.

While we were having a little fun with this CBR1000RR trike, it did find a new home for $9900.

This 1985 RZ500 failed to sell when bid to $9100 while wearing a $11800 buy-it-now.

Kawasaki May 23, 2013 posted by Mike

The best way to go green: 1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R ELR

Forget your Prius, electric car, recycling, composting and general conservatism. This is the REAL way to go green: a 1983 Kawasaki ELR model. Built to commemorate Eddie Lawson’s Superbike titles with Kawasaki, the ELR shows off its cutting edge race-spec stuff, including twin piggy-back shocks, and a mighty 1000cc air cooled inline four.

But let’s face it: what really sets ELR models apart is the brilliant green finish. Look beyond that and you will start to notice the GPz-like bikini fairing, the cast alloy wheels, triple disk brakes, fork brace, factory Kerker exhaust and more. This is no simple KZ; this was the top of the Big K heap in 1983.

From the seller:
I am selling my 1983 Eddie Lawson Replica (R2) with 22, 377 miles, which is in excellent running order and in very good overall condition. The frame and engine do not match. The original engine was heavily modified for a Cycle Magazine article and the engine was subsequently damaged beyond repair (over rev’ed). It was replaced with a Police 1000J engine.

The bike has new Dunlop tires, a new clutch cable, and new front shock seals installed with less than 2,000 miles. The brakes, battery, chain, and original seat are in very good condition. All of the electrical works (with the exception of intermittent flashing to the oil pressure warning light). All of the turn signals, hazard lights, and the “hi and low beams” of the headlight are working.

This bike comes with: Works rear shocks, a “newish” Kerker exhaust, tuned Mikuni flatside carbs w/ 4 High flow air filters, and an “aftermarket” Dyna electronic adjustable ignition.

Bike has been repainted…but there are a few chips and scrapes. Paint scheme is the “S1 Racing” scheme. Stickers can be removed…no scratches underneath.

Spare parts: stock front and back turn signals, racing oil cooler, stock air box, and the black chromed grab rail that fits around the rear of the seat.

Purchase includes the original Owner’s Manual (pristine condition), the Service Manual, and the Cycle Magazine article + 2 framed photos.

The ELR models we have posted here in the past have been in varying condition. Some have been absolutely concours condition and destined for museums, while others were riders or slightly worse. This bike looks to be a bit cleaner than most of the riders we have seen, but is far from stock or original. Will that matter to buyers? Given that pristine examples run in the $12k and above ranges, the BIN for this bike is set for a more reasonable $8,000. The opening ask is $6,500, with a reserve in place.

Will the bidders turn out for this one? If this was the actual magazine testing bike (and documented), that could make it an interesting find. I would love to know more of the back story on that one; could the historical aspect of this bike have any bearing on the final sale price? Click the link to jump over to the auction and check it out. Going green is easy on an ELR!

Kawasaki March 18, 2013 posted by Mike

Printing Green: 1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R2 ELR

Big mean green machines from Kawasaki are worth big bucks these days, and we have seen a number of attempts to cash in on the ELR trend. This bike is the latest ELR we have come across, and it comes to us from Arkansas with 14,150 on the clock.

Unlike many of the pristine and restored examples, this bike has been ridden and shows some age. The Kerker exhaust is stock, but the black chrome has been worn off over time. The paintwork is not exactly perfect, the rear shocks have been swapped out for shorter units to accommodate a rider without sufficient inseam, and the seller notes numerous “fixes” and mods to the bike.

From the seller:
For your consideration is this 1983 ELR in Mostly Original Running Condition!
Much of the bike is original, but does have some damage, plenty of wear, and amateur touch-up & alteration – please read the entire listing.

The tank, seat fairing, side covers and front fender have original paint; the front fairing and a few black parts are poorly re-sprayed. It looks like all the stock plastic (air box, chain guard, tool tray, etc.) is there and uncut. Even has the Original Owners Manual and Took Kit!

The motor runs fine, with no smoke, knocks, rattles or slaps. There are no broken fins, scuffed covers, welds or repairs other than a generous application of silicone sealer on the valve cover gasket; it still leaks some. The clutch and gearbox operate smoothly, the “Neutral Finder” works, and the bike handles well. Case guards have been installed. The stock exhaust has been repainted, but turned grey at the header.

The Stock Rear Shocks are Missing. The bike has been short-shocked for a vertically challenged rider, resulting in the rear tire wearing a hole through the plastic inner fender. The bars and mirrors have been changed. The tank has 6 dents ranging from shallow ‘silver dollar+’ diameter (on the lower right front) to hard-to-find tiny, and the petcock will not shut off (inline valve installed); the inside of the tank is very clean, but there are plenty of chips in the green.

The lights, signals and charging system are functional; the kill switch and fuel gauge do not work. Wheels, brakes, disks and hydraulics look original – the chain and tires are good. The chassis and body paint has nicks, marks and scratches, the mounting tabs on the grab rail are broken, and there are welded repairs on the signal brackets. The visible part of the seat cover looks great, but the bottom edge has a few splits.

A quick road test around the block revealed no apparent issues. It makes good power, shifts through all 5 gears, and stops well using either front or rear brakes. No high speed wheelie passes though; the test ride was not far or overly aggressive.

ELRs can be cash machines – but only clean and original – or fully restored – bikes need apply. The opening bid for this one is $7,500, which is very steep for a bike in this condition. If you are jonesing for an ELR and have been unable to find one, here is a good foundation for a restoration. If you are looking to show, you might want to look elsewhere; this one will need some work. Good Luck!

Kawasaki November 9, 2012 posted by Mike

Eddie in Texas: 1983 KAWASAKI KZ1000R ELR

1983 KAWASAKI KZ1000R ELR for sale on eBay

These original ELR machines are not exactly the Hope diamond in terms of rarity, but they are limited in numbers and the general consensus around the breakroom in the RSBFS headquarters indicates that most wouldn’t mind one in their garage. We have seen these bikes offered across the US and Canada, and even found one for you in Budapest. This one is located in Texas, and looks to be a solid find.

From the seller:
UP FOR AUCTION IS A US MODEL 1983 KAWASAKI KZ1000R ELR EDDIE LAWSON REPLICA WITH 17K.MILES ON THE ODOMETER AND ONLY FEW HUNDRED MILES ON THE ENGINE WITH NEW 0.50 OVERSIZE KAWASAKI PISTONS,RINGS AND VALVE SEALS,NO OTHER MODIFICATIONS.

IT IS THE ORIGINAL ENGINE SERIAL NUMBER KZT00JE041466. FRAME IS STRAIGHT NEVER BEEN DAMAGED, CUT OR MODIFIED IN ANY WAY. SERIAL NUMBER JKAKZCR1CA0002004. THIS IS AN ADULT RIDDEN,VERY WELL TAKEN CARE OF BIKE THAT IN GREAT SHAPE. IT HAS GOOD
BRAKES,TIRES,NEW BATTERY,CHAIN AND SPROCKETS.ALL GAUGES AND ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT FUNCTION PROPERLY. DOESN’T SMOKE OR LEAK ANY FLUIDS. I HAVE ALL THE ORIGINAL STUFF THAT CAN’T BE SEEN IN THE PICTURES.(ORIGINAL AIR FILTER HOUSING WITH RUBBERS,GRAB BAR,OWNERS MANUAL IN THE PLASTIC COMPARTMENT,NEVER BEEN USED TOOLS IN THE TOOL TRAY.)

Finding a clean ELR in nice condition is not an every day occurrence. We do run across a few ratty examples, and a few rebuilt and restored bikes that look better than factory new. This one is a well cared for example that has some miles but is otherwise a looker and a rider. Check out the photos.

Prices on these ELRs tend to support the “everybody wants one” theory. This auction is at $13,000 at time of writing, with moderate bidding. There are still a few days to play out, so you have not missed your chance. To check out this bike and all of the pics, click the link and jump over to the auction.

Kawasaki September 12, 2012 posted by Mike

Eddie in unlikely places: 1985 Kawasaki ELR in Budapest

For Sale: 1985 Kawasaki KZ1000 R Eddie Lawson Replica (ELR)

Today’s find is a *relatively* rare ’85 Kawasaki ELR. The part that really gets me is that this bike is located in Budapest, Hungary. How did a replica model of what was a very US-based AMA Superbike competition find its way so far from our shores?

I would think that a US racing commemorative bike (highlighting Steady Eddie’s ’81 and ’82 Superbike championships) would not translate well in other countries or languages. While it is true that racing is universal, the regional specifics are sometimes lost in translation. Note the comments from the seller, below. Ten points to whomever spots the error first.

From the seller:
Model year: 1985
Engine size: 1000 cc
Number of cylinders: 4
Power(PS): 125
Mileage: 59306 km
Condition: Perfect, completely renovated
Documents: with documents

Description: In honor of the Australian world champion, Eddie Lawson the Kawasaki factory made this limited edition, signed by the world champion on the seat. 4-in-one Kerker exhaust, gas adjustable suspension, the unique design based on the motor of the champion. Completely new chain set, new tires, new brake pads, registration

These ELR models are not exactly a dime a dozen. Sure, they lack the homologation exclusivity of a RC30/45 or OW01/02, but neither are they common. Prices are reasonable, and this bike has apparently received some restoration treatment under care of the current owner. Mileage is higher than most we have seen (approximately 37,000 miles when converted from KM), but this is not usually a deal killer on the KZ-based powerplant.

This auction is going on right now, and the asking price is a very reasonable $3,650 – or best offer. This deal is going to be far sweeter for our European readers who have less distance to travel, as shipping this back to the US will not be cheap. But count on RSBFS to scour the globe to find those rare and collectable models, wherever they might be! For your chance to check this one out, click the link and jump over to the auction. European delivery of an ELR in Hungary anyone?

Kawasaki November 24, 2011 posted by Mike

1982 Kawasaki Eddie Lawson Replica KZ1000R

For Sale: 1982 Kawasaki Eddie Lawson Replica KZ1000R

Before the influx of the Ninja, GSX-R, Hurricane and FZR, this is what real men rode on the racetrack. Cutting edge by the current day standards, this KZ1000-based replica racer pays homage to the Superbike titles won by Eddie Lawson in 1981 and 1982 – fighting the likes of Freddie Spencer, Wayne Rainey and Fred Merkel, amongst others.

With an inline four cylinder, air cooled powerplant, the KZ1000 was tricked out with cast alloy wheels, a four-into-one Kerker exhaust from the factory, bikini fairing taken from the GPz line, upgraded piggyback shocks in the rear, triple disc brakse (drilled), an oil cooler and a special paint job commemorating the Superbike championship. These bikes were made in limited numbers, and finding a clean example today is not easy; they are around, but not plentiful.

From the seller:
This is a collectors item and extremely rare bike. 1982 Eddie Lawson Replica KZ1000 R1 (US Model) 37,800 miles on odometer,300 miles since total restoration.This is bike number 422 of a limited 900 ever produced. Chassis has been powercoated. All bearings inspected,greased and or replaced.Forks have fresh oil and seals,has Marzocchi shocks in place,also have stock shocks to be included. New chain and sprockets,brand new Dunlop D404 tires,new brake pads with steel braided lines. Engine is original bottom end that has been dis-assembled and inspected. Cylinders have been overbored 3mm with wiseco pistons. Head has been rebuilt to include 3 angle valve job and resurfaced. Stock air box with K/N filter. Cosmetics are 100% factory orginal 8 on scale of 10. Bike speaks for itself. The bike is owned and restored by Dan Batterby of Danco Performance, a motorcycle mechanic of 35 years, pro race tuner/engine builder, proven in roadrace, supercross, and off-road circuits.

ELRs have graced the pages of RSBFS many times in the past few years, and each time the prices reflect the quality of the bike. This particular example is one of the higher mileage bikes we have seen, yet is in terrific condition and appears to be very clean and very well cared for. One look at that rear sprocket tells me that this seller has prepped this bike very well indeed!

This bike had been listed previously by the seller – it was bid up to $8,100, with reserve not having been met. Top level ELRs will draw between $12k and $15k – but those figures are top dollar for very low mileage, perfect examples. Most ELRs will be in the $7k – $9k range, and it is unknown how much the “total restoration” plus upgrades adds to the bike.

The auction is on right now, and there have been a small number of interested bidders. Currently this bike sits at just over $1,000, with a reserve in place. It is hard to tell what will make the seller happy, but I would consider anything over $8,500 to be fair money for this bike – even if that does not cover the cost of the full restoration. A collector bike can only be original once, and originality is what pulls in the big bucks. For more information and to check out all of the action, click on the link and jump over to the auction. Good Luck!

Kawasaki October 6, 2011 posted by Mike

Green with envy – twice! Two Kawasaki ELRs

On the left: 1983 KZ1000R ELR. The bike on the right is a 1984 KZ1100R ELR.

Fans of “Steady” Eddie Lawson rejoice! What we have found for you today is not one limited edition model ELR built to celebrate Eddie’s Superbike dominance, but TWO rare bikes – both by the same seller. Somebody has been hoarding the goods, and luckily for us the time has come for him to thin the herd. Feast your eyes on these two very similar – yet very different bikes.

From the seller:
All genuine ELR models have the all important “R” in the VIN. The North American market bikes had the “R” as the 7th digit in the VIN, whilst the bikes sold in certain other select worldwide markets had the “R” as the 6th digit.

Right off the bat, the seller is helping you understand that these are the real deal – not re-sprayed KZs looking to be cashed in quickly. And not only are both of these bikes up for auction at the same time, both are NO RESERVE auctions. If you have been lusting after an authentic ELR, here are two great options for you!

Bike #1: 1983 Kawasaki KZ1000R ELR Eddie Lawson Replica

The first of the two bikes is a 1983 model KZ1000R ELR. These are the bikes with which US-based riders are most familiar. And while this particular model was not a US bike (Canadian origin), it retains the same look and nomenclature of its US brothers.

From the seller:
As this machine was not sold new in the U.S. it was not fitted with the Federal emissions equipment that feeds oily fumes from the motor back into the airbox. If you live somewhere that this will cause problems at smog check time I suggest that you keep it in mind and bid accordingly. The bike has a clear U.S. Title from the State of Utah–a picture is included.

I had not ridden this bike for a couple of years before deciding to sell it. I had a new battery and new Bridgestone tires fitted and rode it the distance (35 miles) on the trip meter Friday at speeds up to 90mph. It is essentially running fine, but would likely benefit from a little attention to the carburetors. The brakes worked OK but seemed a bit spongy and the clutch a little heavy. Nothing serious here, I just want to be up front about it. The bike burns no oil and is great fun to ride. Absolutely everything works.

This bike has 18,965 miles on the clock. It is clearly not new – nor a museum piece – but looks to have been cared for pretty well over the past 28 years. Click here for more information on this great 1983 KZ1000R ELR.

Bike #2: 1984 Kawasaki KZ1100R ELR Eddie Lawson Replica

The second ELR at auction is a slightly rarer 1984 KZ1100R ELR. If memory serves correctly, this model did not come to the US – but maybe one of our sharp RSBFS readers can correct me on this front. Like the first, this particular bike was imported into the US as well, and thus lacks any Federalization – emissions, stickers, etc.

From the seller:
As this machine was not sold new in the U.S. it was not fitted with the Federal emissions equipment that feeds oily fumes from the motor back into the airbox. If you live somewhere that this will cause problems at smog check time I suggest that you keep it in mind and bid accordingly. The bike has a clear U.S. Title from the State of Utah–a picture is included.

I had not ridden this bike for a couple of years before deciding to sell it. I had a new battery fitted and rode it the distance (12 miles) on the trip meter Friday at speeds up to 70mph. It is essentially running fine, but would likely benefit from a little attention to the carburetors. Nothing serious here, I just want to be up front about it. The bike burns no oil and is great fun to ride. Absolutely everything works except the neutral light which I will hopefully have sorted before the auction ends.

The bike has damage to the front portion of the top fin on the left side of the cylinder head. There is a picture showing this. Once you know it is there it is obvious, but I owned the bike for quite a while before I even saw it. It doesn’t affect the bike in any way, other than cosmetically obviously.

The original black chrome exhaust system is in excellnt condition. It is completely solid, but does have a small dent on top in line with the rear axle on the left side. There is a picture of this. A lot of owners of KZ1100R machines like to fit a Kerker 4 into 1 to capture more of the iconic Lawson look, but I prefered to keep the stock system.

This bike has a few more miles than the ’83 model: 27,047 according to the seller. This only highlights the great aspect of these bikes and their longevity; with KZ-based engine and transmission plus ELR-specific features such as bodywork, suspension, brakes and color, you get the rarity of a limited edition model with the benefits of a mass-produced foundation. For more information on this 1984 KZ1100R click the link and jump over to the auction.

There you have it – two great bikes from one seller. These are no reserve auction – and the bidding has been pretty low thus far – so you might have a real opportunity to pick up some rare sporting hardware on the cheap. Good luck!