Unobtanium Alert: 1980 Bimota KB1 for sale in Italy

Some people seem to think that RSBFS should only focus on “unobtanium” bikes, bikes that that meet all the major criteria of sportbike collectibility (numbers produced, technology, condition and location). Here is a 1980 Bimota KB1 which meets all four of the collectibility criteria and has been considered one of the 6 sexiest Bimota models ever produced.

1980 Bimota KB1 for sale in Italy (ebay)

Like most Bimota bikes of the time, the KB1 was essentially an upgraded frame and suspension wrapped around a major manufacturer’s powerplant. The KB1 frame had a mono-shock swing arm with adjustable pivot, adjustable steering head, magnesium wheels and Brembo brakes. The KB1 was also Bimotas first bike with a Kawasaki four, designed around the big K 903cc dohc Z1 powerplant.

The KB1 was a success for Bimota, with more than 800 units produced. From what I have been able to find out, quite a lot of KB1’s were sold in kit form, with two versions; base and Set A.  This means that no two KB1’s are considered to be exactly the same, kind like a 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO.

This particular KB1 was apparently used as a race bike by a classic racing team but the seller indicates it was completely rebuilt. That could explain the listed mileage of 9 miles/km.  The seller does include some pics regarding the rebuild in the ebay auction description section.

Here is what the seller has to say

• Bike in top condition, just completely rebuilt.
• Wiseco Pistons, Nymonic valves
• Yoshimura Camshaft, bigger timing chain, anti-slide clutch
• Kehin CR 35mm carbs, bigger oil cooler
• Dyna ignition, external flywheel kit
• Progressive front forks kit, EPM wheels, gold edition Brembo brakes

So what is this 1980 Bimota KB1 worth? To be honest, I don’t know. We have only had two other KB1’s appear on RSBFS and the listed prices for those were between $17,000 USD and $24,000 USD but those prices were from a couple of years ago. Also the location in Italy has to be taken into account, as is the fact that this is a former track/race bike that is listed as having been freshly rebuilt but doesn’t appear to be street legal/able to pass a MOT at this time.

Perhaps this one will appeal to someone in europe who likes the pre-bankruptcy Bimota editions or a classic racer fan with deep pockets.  It certainly is a bit of unobtainium and should increase in value over time.

-Marty/Dallaslavowner