Bimota fans will know that KB2 translates to the second model that Bimota designed around a Kawasaki engine – in this case, the KB2 Laser utilized the mid-sized motor from the GPz550 and was designed with a focus on light weight and excellent handling instead of monstrous power. Dry weight was claimed to be pounds, 60 pounds lighter than the GPz550. It was reportedly Massimo Tamburini’s favorite Bimota.
It was the last Bimota design that was available both as a kit or a complete bike, and just 177 examples were built. Of that small number, only 62 were the up-spec Laser TT which got slightly different fairings (no openings for the engine cases, larger air intakes for the oil cooler) and plated alloy rotors.
All KB2s featured top-notch components such as Brembo Gold Seal four-piston calipers, Ceriani/Italia forks, DeCarbon shock, and Campagnolo 16″ magnesium wheels.
Despite the diminutive size and weight, the Laser has a 5.8 gallon fuel tank – good for a claimed range of 284 miles! But that’s just about the only convenience you get – mirrors and turn signals were supposed to be provided by the importer and often weren’t. The fuel gauge and sidestand warning switch in the GPz dash do nothing here, either. But this bike was all about going fast – Cycle magazine said it “might be the quickest vehicle over a twisty road we’ve ever tried,” and “this isn’t a road test because the Bimota KB2 Laser would make a mockery of road test vocabulary.”
This example (VIN: JKAKZFH13CA004387, Engine #: KZ550DE017233) is one of over thirty motorcycles that we will be auctioning off from the Alan Wilzig collection over the next couple of weeks. Alan acquired this bike from a private part in California in December of 2001 and has had it on display in his collection ever since.
He has not ridden the bike during his ownership. The odometer shows 9,702 kilometers (6,028 miles).
In preparation for the listing, we had Daniel clean and sync the carbs, install a new battery, rebuild the front and rear master cylinders, refinish the front master cylinder, clean the fuel tank, flush the front and rear brakes, clean/lubricate/adjust the chain, and fix the shift linkage. He notes that the brakes are at 70%/85% front/rear, the tires need to be replaced, and the rear brake switch does not work.
Modifications:
Foam grips.
Battery tender lead.
Tinted windscreen, misc. stickers.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Michelin A59/M59 tires which have aged out. These were OEM spec and it is possible that they are the original tires.
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Bimota is offered on a clean California title. Have any KB2 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
Continental US: Haul Bikes will ship anything sold through Iconic for a starting rate of $750 in the Continental US (prices may increase in rural markets), and Iconic will handle the paperwork on your behalf. You do not need to crate your bike or drain the gas/disconnect the battery if you go with Haul Bikes. We are glad to work with the shipper of your choice as well, but you will have to arrange it.
Please note:
spares/extras will have to be shipped separately via FedEx or similar.
the fee includes $15,000 of insurance with a $500 deductible. Additional insurance can be purchased at a cost of $50 per additional $5,000 of value.
$5,000 for US to Europe/Asia is a VERY ROUGH ballpark which includes transport as well as customs fees and duties. Please contact Shippio for an exact quote.
