No Reserve – 1980 Kawasaki KZ1300

Description

Additional photos are available here for your perusal.

In a period review, Cycle World called Kawasaki’s KZ1300 “an incredible hulk”, saying “There are motorcycles with more speed, but not with the same combination of power, strength, comfort and handling…the sophistication is incredible, the size is enormous.” Displacement-wise, it was the biggest of the classic six-cylinder motors like the Benelli Sei and the Honda CBX. Like the competition, the KZ wasn’t a commercial success but collectors now appreciate the audacity of a bike that screamed excess from the weight to the price.

Built for 10 years, the 1,286cc engine produced a hefty 120 horsepower. Top speed was similarly significant with magazine tests showing that it was capable of hitting 140 mph. But the 710 pound wet weight meant it was thirsty, with a fuel economy of approximately 30mpg. For more information, check out this ‘six-cylinder’ comparison from Motorcycle Classics.

This example is VIN: KZT30A009308. It came to Iconic Motorbikes as an import from South Africa.

The odometer shows 42,862 kilometers (26,683 miles).

Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us replace the battery, the spark plugs, the CDI, the ignition coils, the ignition coil wiring harness, the petcock, and the fuel lines. We also fabricated spark plug leads, changed the oil and oil filter, replaced the air filter, flushed the coolant and brakes, and gave the bike a detailing. Our service department notes the following in their condition report:

Gas Tank Internal Condition: Ok, previously coated
Tire Years – Front: 4208; Rear: 1710
Tire % – Front: 80%; Rear: 80%
Brake Life – Front: 80%; Rear: 90%
Front Hydraulic Fluid: New
Rear Hydraulic Fluid: New
Engine Oil – Level: Ok; Quality: New
Coolant – Level: Ok; Quality: New
Low Beam: Ok
High Beam: Ok
Passing Light: NA
Parking Light: NA
Turn Signals: Ok
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light: Ok
Plate Light:
Killswitch: Ok
Horn: Ok
Fork: Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Final Drive: Ok
Battery Standing Voltage: 12.69V
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: 14.57 V
Test Ride: Approximately 1 Mile, Unit operates as designed

Notes:
-Fuel Gauge not reading accurately
-Tachometer not displaying RPM accurately
-Odometer and trip meter not recording mileage
-Starter motor and starter clutch wearing out
-Seat latch is missing
-Airbox lid is missing
-Tires aged out

REPAIRS RECOMMENDED
-Diagnose and Repair Speedometer/Odometer, Tachometer and Fuel Gauge
-Starter and starter clutch replacement
-Tires

Modifications:
Slash-cut mufflers.

Inside of the tank:

It is riding on Pirelli Sport Demon and Michelin Pilot Power tires that have aged out.

The sale includes one key.

Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:

Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Kawaski is offered on a clean Oregon title. Please note that as an import, this bike lacks certain compliance and emissions stickers that the state of California would require to transfer a title. Have any KZ1300 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!