UPDATE 01/20/26: The listing previously stated that the transmission was not shifting properly. This was incorrect, the transmission functions as intended and shifts through all gears.
After Eddie Lawson won the 1981 AMA Superbike Championship, Kawasaki created a limited edition model for 1982 based on the KZ1000. It was called the KZ1000R ELR (Eddie Lawson Replica), and it was an instant legend. The 1982 model had Eddie’s signature on the tank, and the decal was updated for next year’s model after Kawasaki/Kerker won the AMA Superbike Championship again a second year in a row.
It was based on the KZ1000, but was heavily upgraded with a Kerker 4-1 exhaust, remote reservoir shocks, an oil cooler, wider rear wheel, upgraded cylinder heads, upgraded brakes, and 34mm Mikuni CV carbs.
Of course, it also featured a distinctive livery designed to emulate Eddie’s race bike. For 1983, however, Kawasaki could no longer call it the “Eddie Lawson Replica” as the star had moved to Yamaha. Accordingly, it was dubbed the KZ1000R2 and commonly known as the “Superbike Replica” instead.
Manufactured in December of 1982, this example is VIN: JKAKZCR18DA001418, Engine #: KZT00JE040651
The odometer shows 24,529 miles.
The seller notes that we have several several Eddie Lawson Replica parts on Iconic Moto Market if anyone is looking to work on this bike post-purchase.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection and the following:
-Fuel tank professionally cleaned and lined
-New fuel sender seals
-New petcock
-New oil and filter
-New battery
-New tires
-Carbs stripped, cleaned, serviced and tuned
The bike had been sitting for some time and the seller’s intent was to have Iconic make this a rider for the auction. Unfortunately, during our work we discovered that the top end of the engine is making a noise. The owner then decided to sell it as is. Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Professionally cleaned and lined
Engine Oil Level: Ok
Engine Oil Quality: New
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: N/A, Air Cooled
Coolant Quality: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: FAIL, > 3% Moisture
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: Ok
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: Good , < 1.5% Moisture
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A, Cable Clutch
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: Ok
Headlight High Beam: Ok
Headlight Low Beam: Ok
Passing Light: N/A
Parking Light: Ok
Turn Signals: Ok
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light (Front Switch): Ok
Brake Light (Rear Switch): Ok
Plate Light: Ok
Horn: Ok
Kill Switch: Ok
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: 80%
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: 40%
Forks: Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: 37/24
Tire Date Code Rear: 24/24
Tire % Remaining Front: 100% New
Tire % Remaining Rear: 100% New
Tire Press. Front: 36 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 38 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: 12.06V New
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: 13.37V
Running Condition: Runs on bench
Test Ride Completed: None taken
Test Ride Distance: N/A
Notes:
-Kerker Exhaust
-Cosmetic Imperfections:
-Touch up marks on front fairing, front fender
-Top end engine noise
-Engine smokes
Modifications:
Battery tender lead.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Bridgestone Battlax BT46 tires with date codes of 2424 and 3724.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, California, (please make an appointment for an inspection) this Kawasaki is offered on a clean Florida title. Have any KZ1000R Eddie Lawson Replica stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
