Update 7/30: The engine number has been added to the listing (see VIN section) and the kick starter has been found under the seat (see Key section below)
By the late 70s, Kawasaki’s Z bike platform was starting to show its age – beyond a bump in displacement it had seen little development since its introduction in 1972. So when Kawi decided to create the next model in the lineup, they decided to put an emphasis on styling to complement the 130mph performance.
What resulted was the Z1-R, a model that was the first mass-market Japanese bike to offer a handlebar-mounted fairing as a factory fitting. When combined with the “coffin” gas tank and triangular side panels, it made for a combination that proved wildly popular amongst critics. Cycle World said it best at the time of the bike’s launch: “Wow. Unlike anything Kawasaki has done, not quite a copy of anything anybody else has done, the ZR will win sales and status on looks alone.”
Not only that, but the Z1-R also brought with it unique innovations like self-canceling turn signals, a remote brake reservoir, as well as a cluster-mounted fuel gauge and ammeter.
This example is VIN: KZT00D016069. Engine: KZT00DE015991. the seller states “purchased from Iconic Motorbikes auction about 18 months ago. Selling to thin my collection.”
The odometer shows 46,461 KM which is 28,869 miles. The seller has covered approximately 200 miles during his 18 months of ownership.
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: Ok
Engine Oil Level: Ok
Engine Oil Quality: Ok
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: FAIL, >3% Moisture
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Level: N/A, Cable Clutch
Clutch Hydraulic Fluid Quality: N/A
Final Drive Condition: NEEDS SERVICE
Headlight High Beam: Ok
Headlight Low Beam: Ok
Passing Light: Ok
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: 90%
Brake Pad % Remaining Rear: 80%
Forks: Ok
Shock/s: Ok
Tire Date Code Front: 37/20
Tire Date Code Rear: 51/21
Tire % Remaining Front: 90%
Tire % Remaining Rear: 90%
Tire Press. Front: 28 PSI
Tire Press. Rear: 28 PSI
Battery Standing Voltage: 12.4V
Charging Voltage @ 4k RPM: 13.1V
Running Condition: Runs on bench, poorly
Test Ride Completed: None taken
Test Ride Distance: N/A
Notes:
-Chain is dirty and over lubricated
-Front/Rear brake fluid test high on moisture
-Clogged pilot jet: Bike idles on three cylinders, runs ok on part/full-throttle
REPAIRS RECOMMENDED:
-Chain Service
-Hydro 2
-Carb Clean – #3 Carb
Modifications:
The seller states “aftermarket exhaust with Kerker badging.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Bridgestone Battlax tires with date codes of 3720 and 5121.
The sale includes two keys and kick starter.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Panorama City, California, this Kawasaki is offered on a clean Arizona 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 Z1-R stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
