Description
Additional photos of this Kawasaki KZ1000R Superbike Replica are available here for your perusal.
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 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: JKAKZCR10DA001624, Engine #: KZT00JE040591. The seller acquired the bike in January 2021. As noted by the index over on KZ1000R, this is a Canada/Euro spec model.
During his ownership, the seller has covered approximately 15 miles. The odometer shows 11,017 kilometers (6,845 miles).
Maintenance:
In January 2023, the seller had us change the oil and oil filter, flush the brakes, replace the handlebars, and install new Metzeler Lasertec tires. We also sent out the fuel tank to be lined by GTL, after which Brian of BKM Creations repainted the tank, replaced the decals, and repaired the side covers. Then, in March of 2023, we replaced the stator.
In preparation for the listing, the seller had us replace the battery, the tachometer, and the fuel gauge. Our service department notes the following in their condition report:
Gas Tank Condition: Ok, just cleaned and lined
Tire Years – Front: 2622; Rear: 1722
Tire % – Front: 100%; Rear: 100%
Tire Pressure – Front: 32 PSI; Rear: 34 PSI
Brake % – Front: 95%; Rear: 95%
Hydraulic Fluid- Front: New; Rear: New
Engine Oil – Level: Ok; Quality: New
Low Beam: Ok
High Beam: Ok
Turn Signals: Ok
Hazard Lights: Not Working
Tail Light: Ok
Brake Light: Ok
Plate Light: Ok
Killswitch: Ok
Horn: Ok
Fork: Ok
Shock/s: Rear Left Leaking
Final Drive: Ok, just cleaned
Fuel Sender: Ok
Battery: OCV: 12.79V; Charging at Idle: 13.16V; Charging at 4K RPM: 13.65V
Test Ride: 6.6 Km, unit operates as designed
Notes:
Some indicator lights not illuminating:
– Hi-Beam indicator not illuminating
– Single neutral light illuminates
– RH turn signal indicator not illuminating
– Hazard switch non-functional
– LH rear shock leaking
Modifications:
Reproduction handlebars.
It is riding on Bridgestone Battlax BT45 tires with date codes of 1722 and 2622.
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 Kawasaki is offered on a clean Florida title. Have any KZ1000R Superbike Replica stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!