In 1967, Kawasaki introduced a 250cc two-stroke called the Samurai which was an instant hit. Thanks to the first use of dual rotary valves in the 250cc twin market, Kawi could offer a broader powerband than its competitors as well as 31 horsepower, enough for a top speed over 100 mph.
Soon after, Kawasaki introduced a “Street Scrambler” SS variant that kept the Samurai name. The most obvious change was the crossover upswept exhaust system, but the SS also got universal tires, a dual seat, and a 39 tooth sprocket. In a period ad, Kawasaki called it “the street scrambler version of the hot 5-speed 250cc that enthusiasts have been demanding. It’s the modern ultimate in motorcycle styling for the sports rider who demands the most, a sleek mount for the city with rugged styling demanded by off-the-road-riding.”
Due in part to the exhaust, the SS version gained a few pounds. But as Cycle World put it in their review, “riding the Samurai on the road reminds us how valid the sports car ethic is—i.e. you don’t need great gobs of big bore power to have fun. Just row the gearbox a bit, which is no problem due to its smoothness and the useful spacing of its five ratios, and pitch it through turns as hard as you dare.”
This example is VIN: A113908. The seller acquired it from a private collector ten years ago.
The odometer shows 8,319 miles.
Maintenance:
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us perform a safety inspection. Our service department notes the following on their condition report:
Gas Tank Internal Condition: Dry with Light Surface Rust
Engine Oil Level: Low
Engine Oil Quality: Fail
2T Oil Level: N/A
Coolant Level: N/A
Coolant Quality: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Front Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Rear Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: Dry
Headlight High Beam: Non Functioning
Headlight Low Beam: Non Functioning
Passing Light: Non Functioning
Parking Light: Non Functioning
Turn Signals: Ok
Tail Light: Non Functioning
Brake Light (Front Switch): No Switch
Brake Light (Rear Switch): Ok
Plate Light: Non Functioning
Horn: Non Functioning
Kill Switch: Unknown
Brake Pad % Remaining Front: 80% Drum
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: 80% Drum
Forks: Ok; Little Dampening
Shock/s: Leaking
Tire Date Code Front: 36/11
Tire Date Code Rear: 34/13
Tire % Remaining Front: 90%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 90%
Tire Press. Front: 0 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 0 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: Dead
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: Unknown
Running Condition: Crank No Start on Jumper
Test Ride Completed: None Taken
Test Ride Distance: N/A
Notes:
-Electrical Checked with Jumper
-Evidence of rodents
-Clutch slips on kick
-Cat food in airbox
-Carburetor Assemblies are stuck
-Non-original wiring
-Non-original signals and left hand switch assembly
Recommendations:
-Rodent removal and inspection of damage
-Carburetor Rebuild
-Diagnostic
-Clean Fuel tank and inspection of Fuel System
-Light Diagnostic
-Front and Rear Tires and Tubes
-Oil Change
-Chain Service
-Battery Replacement
-Shock Rebuild
-Fork Rebuild
-Etc.
Modifications:
“The previous owner made several modifications over stock like bags, bars, grips, etc. Not totally stock but tastefully modified.”
Tank bag.
Handlebar bag, headlight guard.
Marzocchi shocks.
Motion Pro throttle, Magura grips.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop Roadmaster TT100 tires with date codes of 3611 and 3413.
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 Bill of Sale only. Iconic’s White Glove Service can assist with getting a Tennessee state title for roughly $650. Have any Samurai A1SS stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
