Just starting a restoration on a 78. Restored a 73 a bunch of years ago, and got talked into selling it. 😢😢😢 dumb move, missed it right away, and ever since. I may paint my 78 like a 73 and do the 4 into 4 exhaust as a sort of clone, or not not sure yet.
Back in 1975 I purchased a brand new Kawasaki Z1-900 from Ricks Cycle Center in Bound Brook, NJ. Traded in my Triumph Bonneville towards it. If I remember correctly a brand new ‘75 Kawasaki Z1 was selling for $2150 then. What a steal for a SuperBike I will never forget. They only came in 2 Colors Dark Blue and Maroon. Mine was Blue. I always use to tell people back then that driving that Z1 and getting on it to me felt like getting shot out of a cannon. You had to hold on for dear life because that factory seat wasn’t holding you in place. I ended up having to add the Steering Stabilizer to my bike. It made all the difference in the world to the bike at high speeds. Many of my friends got rid of their Triumphs to buy a Z1 like I did. First thing I did with mine was I swapped out the factory Exhaust system for a Yoshimura Black Header. I remember having to get the bike rejetted because of the swap. My Z1 was the fastest motorcycle I ever drove and one dependable motorcycle. The best bike I ever owned. Sadly I had to sell it in 1978 in order to go into business for myself along with my ‘72 Corvette. A year or so later I picked up a wrecked ‘75 Z1 a good friend had owned and fixed it up. Both Z1’s were repainted when I owned them to personalize my taste back then. Sold the 2nd Z1 in ‘82 just before I got married. Gave up motorcycles at that point in time. Felt I had my fill from the late 60’s up to then but I will never forget.
I can relate. We've sold things over the years to stay in business, that now we wish we had back. If you are ever interested in another Z1, let us know. I still have my 66 corvette that I inherited when i was young. Thank you for sharing your memories.
It's fun to follow Johnny when describing the details of these bikes. I too am very familiar with these facts. One thing I learned the hard way was in 1977 when I bought my KZ1000 new for $2499.00 (Leo's Kawasaki ) I came back from a 10,000 mile + trip and had new stainless Manley Valves and 2 sets of Honda 450CC Pistons put in with foam unipod air filters. The guy proudly pointed out where he ground off the Kawasaki CC stamp on the Cyl Head and pounded in the date of his rebuild of the top end. I didn't like it but it was too late to change it. I was a naive 21 yr old and should have realized what this single one man shop owner (Bernie) did. I think he swapped my cyls. with a 900 (903cc) bike and used his date stamp to camouflage his deceitful behavior. But those Honda pistons really increased the compression you could hear the starter motor strain and the kick starting was much harder. When I drove it home and played with it, (never a straight trip home) my arms were sore from the engine pulling the next day. Remember I lived on that bike for awhile so my arms were used to being pulled, unlike taking it out for the first few times in the spring. So when buying these bikes look for the 903cc stamp on the 900's and the 1015cc stamping on the 1000cc bikes.
I had some friends, a couple that were riding a Z1900 in 1975 in Arizona riding on a two lane highway eastbound from Phoenix going to the White Mountains N.E Az that hit head on into a semi truck. Both were killed instantly and the truck wasn't able to stop for several hundred feet. I had what was left of the engine and two cylinders was scrapped off. A memory I will never forget.
So sorry bout your friend's , I too died on a 1974 green H2 , luckily I was shocked back to life and then slipped into 2 moth coma' hence coma kid friend's called me while I was away . still love bikes
Great vid and nice bikes! I had a '75 Z1B but it did not have a steering damper on it. I wish it had. I rode it home to MI from south FL in 1983. I took the long way home. It was a five month trip!! Was home for 2 days and it was stolen 15 minutes after I parked it in Detroit! I still have the vin numbers memorised and still check the rare one I see on the road.
Thanks John = GREAT JOB!! Been in bikes my whole life - raced MX back in the 60's/70's and rode the bikes in your comparison back in the day. Still riding street today. Just sold a 42 WLA that was owned by a WW2 Vet since its return from duty in Europe. Anyway, two thumbs up for Vintage scoots and for you folks keepin em going!!!
Ok John but it's hard to find on TH-cam even if if you punch it in but if you put in " stone " - opening credits - 1974. You will get the one with the opening credits & film of going through the process of starting a Z1 with the - key in ignition - fuel tap on - choke - kill switch - starter- then the guy absolutely nails it , gives it full throttle and go's nuts .. it's quite a sight even this many years later, probably the best opening to a motorbike movie ever .. Hope you like it bloke.
Cool to see a 76 900! I had one just like it I bought in 78. Dumped the horrible 4 into 4 pipes right off for a Kerker. Huge improvement! I put 100k miles on it and sold it to a friend that put on another 100k. Great bikes!
Yea mate you should give yourself a uppercut for slagging off the greatest exhaust exhaust system in the history of motorcycles , where in the hell do you get off fella ., that’s the worst comment I’ve ever read on TH-cam .. un ferking believable
Good Showing! I had Many... 2-75,76,77,80 Never Seen factory installed Fork Steering Dampers ( Special Order ) they First came out for the 72 H2's or Emergency Flash Switch... Main Item not mentioned 75 Carbs were 28mm and 76 26mm for low end power... Thanks for Comparing Models 💥💥🇺🇸💥💥
I live in Aruba and owned the 1976 kawasaki KZ900 bronce coloured. There were only 4 of 1976 and 2 or 3, 1977 1000. They were imported from Orlando, Florida. I drove it for six years and sold it in 1982. Than I sold it and never saw it again until last january I started to look for it if it is still running and 2 days I came to know that an x cop own 3 of them. Spoke to him and probably one of them is the one I owned. We have now an appointment to see if he has the one I used to owe. How lucky can I be to find it after 37 years. Super Great bike.
I miss my 1976 KZ900 LTD !! Changed the pipes to 4 into 2 drag pipes straight thru no restriction - nice & loud when pounding on the RPM's. Adjusted the jets accordingly. Went to 16" rear wheel, one tooth up on primary socket (higher top end). Changed seat and handle bars. Bought NEW in Pa. lived in Del. color - green. Many a fun time.
I remember seeing a report in a cycle magazine about the "New York Steak" which was the code name of the soon to be released Z1. I feel in love! That was when I had just started high school. Eventually I saved enough to buy a new green tank KZ900 for $2250. I ran errands, went to work, traveled the USA and Canada. When I finally went to a bigger bike I had put 75K on my reliable Kawi. I will be shunned but I actually liked the green tank version (but not the sh_t brown version). Like most riders I did many updates: four-into-one exhaust, fairing and saddle bags, stereo, a 1.5 gallon additional gas tank (under the rear rack), etc. Many miles and many good times on that sweet running machine.
Jerry, as my husband and I are sitting here drinking coffee on a Saturday morning, awaiting the 12 inches of snow that's been forecast, your story makes us smile. I too am a long-distance rider so you had me at "additional tank." John and I traveled to Alabama several times, he on his KZ1000A, me on my K75 BMW and we had to stop every 100 miles for fuel as he was lucky to get 30 mpg with speeds of 75+. John doesn't like to accessorize his vintage bikes - he wouldn't even accept a wrist-rest from me in order to make the trip more comfortable! "It's not original" he'd argue. And guess who carried his clothes? Too funny. You can read about our 2014 trip from our old blog on our website: www.johnnysvintagemotorcycle.com/6-day-road-test-on-a-77-kawasaki-kz-1000/ Thanks for sharing and watching our vids.
I really liked my 75 Z1B in blue. Had good luck with it and alot of great rides. But those reflectors on the forks and shocks I didn't care for, although probably a good idea.
Very well done and very useful for Z enthusiasts. I rode one on a 600 plus mile tout back in '76. Great rider and a fun trip. Borrowed it from a close friend.
Saw the title and had to check it out. I was street racing a Yamaha RD400, back in '79, when one of these little rocket ships came by and wanted to challenge the "fastest bike out here." We then explained that we race for pinks or we don't race. He had a moment of hesitation, before giving in to his horribly inflated ego and consented. We both ponied up or pinks and went to our starting line. He was looking pretty damned confident with his new purchase (found out he just got the bike a week ago), so up to the line we go (my girlfriend was the starter girl). He actually beat me off the line, but couldn't touch me after about the 100 ft. mark. When I crossed the line I immediately swung around to go pick up my newly won pink slip. Mr. KZ 900 was close behind and immediately started whining about an unfair start, yada, yada. We all just laughed at him. He came back about an hour later w/ a police escort, wanting his pink slip back. We explained how it went down and how the race ended and after a few tense moments, he told the guy he should be more discerning when asking for races. We all threw up a cheer, as the poor schmuck turned and walked away.
You got him before he learned to ride the z. Took me about three back tires to get the hole shot down. Shifting two second and third had to be done at the right time and throttle or you would spin the tire and lose time. Smokie burnouts were fun and looked cool but not the fastest times. Mine would leave black snake marks till almost time to grab 4th gear.
@@eagle777dh I ended up selling the RD and keeping the Kawasaki cause it so much better on gas and way better on the freeways of San Diego. Great balance, as I could (and often did) ride a wheelie for miles, even changing lanes, just not in heavy traffic. Not very good powers of discernment when you're a teen. I would take off in second gear during the rainy season to keep it from losing grip, as well as on sandy surfaces near the beach.
Not bad, but there are lots of other differences that you didn't mention Johnny. The Z1 sidecover (LS) has a hole for the oiler but the KZ doesn't. And by the way....the Z1 brake rotor is held with 6 bolts, not 5.
I had a 1975 Kawasaki 900 Z1 same color same style as the one you got right there that's exactly what I had everything you pointed out Pioneer 900 was exactly the same as mine and I know who still has it
Loved my '79 KZ900, but it wasn't quite as quick as my Yamaha '76 RD400. I won the KZ in a bet riding my RD in an 1/8th mile. Sold the RD and kept the KZ for several years before I sold it to do some traveling. Would love to have that bike again, as it was a great highway cruiser.
I can remember in the mid seventies the local bike club ( Jones street, Newark) guys had a lot of Kawasaki 900's and Honda CB 750's all hopped up. Well those bikes were really quick and I believe the Kawasaki was the king of the hill at the time. I know they sounded BAD ASS !
Working on my co workers 76 KZ900, just went through the front brakes, was able to get things back working again with new hosed top, and bottom, he's selling it, has the Kirker header on it. I when we get it running will post up videos.
I bought a new KZ900 in 1976-$2500. You could have had one much cheaper if you shopped around. At $2500 I should have bought a dozen. Road tests of the day showed very little difference in acceleration between the Z-1 and the KZ. I still have these magazine tests. However there was a slight top speed advantage to the Z-1 probably due to the 28 mm carbs vs the 26 mm carbs. My friend thought my KZ was "Quicker through the gears." than his Z-1. But, by then his 74 Z-1 had had quite a bit of hard use. One undeniable performance observation was the effect of installing a tuned four into one exhaust header. The one I put on was made by Denco. The only jetting change I made was to increase the main jet size by several numbers. Of course the needles should have been shimmed up a bit for optimal performance. The effect on performance was stunning. I can only qualify this by a seat of the pants observation but that tach needle was far quicker to the 9,000 rpm redline than with the original four pipes. It sounded nice too without being too loud.
I had the 76 KZ 900 that I bought new back then and it did not have the emergency flasher as shown in the video here. I bought the bike from a south Florida Kawasaki dealer.
Good video. I had 77 z1000 Z1A it had dual front disc brakes and a disc brake on the rear. I had straight handle bars which suited me better than the high standard ones. I wish I had it now it was stolen in 89. I had some identifying marks if I ever see it again.
Great, and very informative John, but You didn't go into the main differences in the Motors. From what i remember, the Z1 had larger diameter carbs. Thanks.
I almost bought a kz900 with a kerker pipe 22 years ago it handled like a wheelbarrow with an under inflated tyre . my woman at the time convinced me to buy a Honda shadow 1100 instead she was an alcoholic so the back rest helped her stay on . I later had a kz 650 bored to 710cc with Andrews cams it flew along but the brakes were old hat it leaked oil a lot I also had a kz 1100 shaft drive it took a lot of abuse but leaked oil and the wireing was rubbish . over all nice old bikes to show and parade but need to be ridden gently tour along rather than trash them . still enjoyable to ride just respect them and nurse them along .
I was kind of hoping you'd mention about the engine tech details such as horsepower, torque, compression, valve size, carb size, transmission ratios and so on. The other details were interesting never the less, thanks.
Saw a Z1'900 today!! I thought it was a KZ'900 witch I'm some what familiar with because my Uncle had 3 of them in the mid 90's... I was perfect, 2 were parts bike's but could have probably been made into 1 working Bike.. Love these old Kawy's still haven't got to ride one..😢 😢
Still drive my 1976 KZ900 LTD around town dual disc brakes up front and disc in the back with my upgraded digital ignition and CR29 Velocity stack carbs. Shes a hoot even after 44k miles lol
I think that the direction of high performance motorcycles and heritage motorcycles is completely different. I would like manufacturers to continue to make systems like this.
here there are mostly z1000 and z1300 but quite a few of these turn up here in the uk, bike shops buy those "containers full of bikes" that come over from the usa, but most bikers will steer clear of "import" models mainly due to parts issues, they almost always have different parts to britt models, making parts hard to find though the net is changing that. a good source of genuine kawa parts here is "cornwall kawasaki" iv'e noticed that the catalogue has listings for a few of the "import" models.
You are one Lucky Guy Johnny to have these well preserved old Kawasaki's from over40 years ago. I can't remember when I last saw one, in any condition. I am 58 years oldand remember this bikes, when they first came out. They were, as you Yanks would say,Awesome. There was "Nothing" on the market at that time that even came close.
Yeah..finally someone points out that the Z1/Z1A/Z1B 900’s were different to the z900 and are not the same thing....however you did manage to miss out some of the main differences. 1st ...the petrol tank, side panels and tail piece are a different shape (not just the back light) 2nd ..the carbs on the Z1 series are 28’s as oppose to 26’s on the z900 also the Z1and Z1A had an automatic chain oiler which was discontinued for the Z1B and subsequentially the z900. They are very different to ride. I owned a Z1B for four years and rode it every day. I have also ridden z900’s and I personally found they lacked the character and the performance of the Z1’s ...much like the H1’s vs the KH’s....kinda a bit slower and less raw and wild..
I am not sure about the differences between the USA and UK. I was in the market for a Z1B in 1976 but the dealers were sold out and the Z900 was coming. However differences were twin disc front brakes and smaller carburettors on the Z900 to the Z1. Also they had a 4 into 2 exhaust not the 4 into 4 as on the Z1. The power delivery was also softer and fortunately the frame flexed less than the Z1. Bit I didn’t go ahead and purchase the Z900, I wanted a Z1 and nothing else would do. Apologies to USA brethren, we didn’t have the K in front of the model references.
Have a Z1 900 now I have owned it since it was new great bike. Looking to sell it now has all original parts tool box tool bag and tools, document tray air filters carburetors. Ran two years ago been in the shed stored inside all its life.
You left out the turn signal beeper on the 76. I'm sure you knew this but didn't point it out, that the name ONLY changed to KZ because of a corporate decision to change ALL the names beginning with the 1976 line-up to one with a "K" prefix and had nothing to do with the subtle updates. (KZ, KH, KX, KE, KS etc...) In fact the "Z" was so important that they kept it though it didn't necessarily "fit" into the new nomenclature. The frame VIN designation says it all "Z1". The 76 handled better, carbureted better and was only 1hp down to the original 72 model, pretty good considering the quieter exhaust, smaller carbs and intake silencer. The beefier frame was definitely needed, but boy were the paint options BORING in 76 ~~ !! Excellent video otherwise, keep them coming ! BTW, were there any dimensional differences between the pre-76 and 76 Z1 fuel tanks? I hear the 76'ers are wider, but I cant tell.... ALOHA!
I suspect it would be a lot more than 1HP in actual Dyno testing whatever claims Kawasaki made for crank figures. Same thing happened to the H2 in its second year, with Kawa claiming just a one HP drop, but in actual testing , it was much slower. The mods Kawa made to the `76 900 would tell me the bike lost at least 5hp off the top end, and with the weight increase, would have made the bike feel quite tame in comparison to the first year 900.
I actually had a 1976 Z1 900. It said so right on the plate on the neck. People said there was not such thing, so that is the reason I checked. It was on the Certificate of Title, too. However it had features of the KZ900.
According to our information from Kawasaki, they made a KZ900A in 76 and 77, although the vin# started out with Z1F on the frame. I know there are some exceptions for Australia but I'm not sure of all the details.
My dad had both bikes. First the Z he road it into the ground then came across a mint kz in the late 80s I actually took my motorcycle license test on in 1995. He retired the bike in 2000 when he picked up a concours.
I had a 76 KZ900..oh I miss it. Took it to 147mph overloaded with gear as I was moving from Md to Ca...best trip of my life. Now I ride a Harley , and love it to...but it is no KZ!
I bought a 1976 KZ 900 new, same emerald green as the one in this video, and had it stock, except for upgraded ignition coils and a converted pressurized air/spring shock front end. Doing all the mechanics on the bike myself, I kept the bike running perfectly. This highest speed that I could get out of it was 130 mph on flat road at sea level, in the Florida Everglades, with me laid down on the tank.
Correct. 130 true mph is the best that these bikes could do. The first ones a little faster than the later `76 green ones, which were heavier and made a bit less power due to emissions. Even the first model 900 only made 64 bhp approx rear wheel in actual Dyno testing, though they did seem very powerful at that time. People see these kinds of bikes through rose tinted glasses with regards to performance !!!
To my infinite regret when after purchasing the '76 KZ900 I tried out someone's Z-1 and I saw immediately I had the slower bike. This particularly burned me up since I had been to a bike shop that was full of new Z-1's from all the previous years and I did not realize that buying a current model in '76 would get me a slower bike. Dang and Dang.
GUPPYKIWI it’s true!.... I owned a 1975 Z1B which I used everyday winter thru summer for five years. Great bike! . A few years a ago I borrowed my sisters husbands z900 and was amazed at how much slower it was!
Yeah, you're right. Like I said, the bike shop I had gone to was full of '75's and I think '74's. I wish the guy there had told me the KZ's were slightly slower. I didn't even have to get out of the parking lot to immediately see my KZ was slower than this '75 I was trying out. Dang and Dang. It was plenty fast but the Z-1's are scary fast just going from zero to even twenty miles per hour. Next time....
It seems like the late 70s KZ 900 has many different versions. Some have dual disc brakes, mags, flat seat, spoked rims, pleated seat, small front fender, larger front fender , chrome gauges, black gauges and so on. Was there different designation for these bike , like LTD I saw some have on a side cover or were these options on the KZ 900 model?
The Z2 was the exact same bike but with a shorter stroke crankshaft than the 900's 66 mm crank, making it 750cc. Those bikes were sold in Canada and Europe, I believe. Also, pretty sure the early 900s had 28mm carbs where the '76, and then the 1000s had 26 mm Mikuni carbs. Those stock pipes bring big bucks...
I’m a proud owner of a 75’. Z1b w/14k on the clock Not a 100% original, paint, exhaust are different, but everything else has been unadulterated. I was so lucky to stumble across it. Wasn’t even in the market for a bike. I friend said he ran across a gal that wanted to sell a Kawasaki motorcycle. I asked my friend what size, he said 900. The antennas on my head immediately started twitching. I immediately loaded him into my car and headed over to the sellers house. Sure enough Z1b. I hate to say it but literally stole it from her as she was an uninformed seller. Honestly I gave her twice what she wanted. LoL. Over the years I’ve watched the value of these bikes soar, never dreaming they would reach the values they have.
I know this is an old video but the title should have a space or hyphen in between Z1 and 900... Its not a Z1900, its a Z1-900. Or 900 Z1. But spelling error aside, these are some great bikes. Rode one before, and own a 78 KZ750 twin. These older kawasakis are gems.
We have a nice clutch cable that we order from Japan with the spring on it just like genuine. I have one in stock I can sell to you for $40. It’s nice. We use it on all the restorations that we do.
Paint difference between the two bikes is & was chalk & cheese, the ZiB is a stunner both in paint quality & taste of design, the KZ not so much .. I'm sure some people like the green but when it came out after after the previous Z1s, Z1As & this ZiB it was considered to be a money saver Job by Kawasaki and was defiantly not done by the previous designer .. if you'd never seen the the other 3 models before seeing it I'm sure it would be fine but after those first three models had raised the bar so high for Japanese paint jobs it was a huge step backwards. And the KZ 1000 was more of the same with another Lame paint job & went from having the best looking & sounding 4 exhaust pipes ever fitted on the 900s to a bike with the biggest piece of shit 4 into 2 hair dryers on the KZ1000s & someone at Kawasaki should have been flogged within a inch of their life for what they did to the legend of Z1s.
I agree with you 1000 % Queenslander. A neighbour of mine in Ireland showed up on the countries first original Z1b in 1972. Stunning looking bike with that blacked out engine and paint job/ exhausts. He just traded in his gorgeous first year Blue Mach IV against it, another stunner from Kawa. Both of these bike really went downhill past the Z1a model and `74 H2 in my opinion. Heavier, slower and plainer looking. The Z1000 was just so bland by comparison too.
Hi Johny, thank you for explaining the difference of the 2 models.I noticed a small difference at the lower fork bridge, Is it correct that the screws for mounting are in the z1 in a 45 degree angle and in the kz900 they go in straight!? I am currently building a kz 900 out of parts together. Sorry for my bad english, greetings from Berlin, Germany Steppe
I have a KZ1000D Z1R Im trying to get it going and had a few questions about high speed wobble. It is stock except for tires and different rubber goods. Opened up the motor because it had low compression on 2 cylinders found two stuck ring. Have a few other questions. How is the best way to contact you Have really enjoyed your channel
This is the difference between 76 and earlier models. KZ throughout the line was US or N.American designation, the rest of the world just got z900, z650, z750, z1000, where the US got KZs. Kawasaki later created more international confusion with ZZR and ZX model mixups.
Great video Johhny, Mate if you want to see heaps of Z1s & Z1As & Bs check out 'Stone' a 1970s Australian Movie it's a trip .. Literally , it's got lots of good riding, wheelies etc .. the story is a bit 'how's your father' but who cares it's got lots Kwakka 9s in it .. pretty much the forerunner to the original ' Mad Max' with some of the same stunt riders in it.
How’s the difference in paintwork , Z1B is amazing compared to the Z900 .. the bloke who designed the first 3 models definitely didn’t design the budget Z900 paintwork where you can run your fingernails over the edges of the pinstripes.
What would have made the Z1 a much better power plant is a better linkage with the carburetors , it was a pain to keep the carbs synchronized ! If you have an old Z1 find yourself a set of Z1R carburetors , they are that much better and will transform it into a smooth and tractable engine !
Hi I now live in Australia, but from Ohio. I have purchased a 1979 KZ1000LTD restoration bike. It's all OEM but needs tiding up. It is missing the LTD grab rail. If you can help with finding the grab rail new or in good condition just might need to be re-Chromed. Thanks Garry'
As far as I am aware, the models for the European market had only the Z prefix whereasmodels mainly for the US market were KZ. If my memory serves me correct.
I cannot be sure about this because I'm not familiar with European vin numbers. If you're interested, I can look it up in some of my books and get back with you.
To the best of my knowledge, the 73 model had a black engine, whether it was a Z1 or a Z2. I'm not 100% sure but I believe the European models up until around 78 had a long rear fender, a band that went around the seat, and the mileage would be in kilometers on the majority of them. Some of them actually had high-speed warning indicator lamps on them. I believe that was on the Japanese models.
I have just Googled info on the Z900 and the original first model from1972 had the black engine, with orange or yellow coloured paint jobon the tank. From 72 to 76 the engines had the more attractive polished alloy finish to the engine, and less garish paint job on thetank, such as those you have there. Usually a dark mwtallic greenor metallic brown which looked far better. Although colours variedfrom one country to another.
i live in europe and i confirm: the European models up until around 78 had a long rear fender, a band that went around the seat, and the mileage would be in kilometers on all the machines
I'm sure they were faster off the line, too. I rode a friend's Z-1 to compare to my '76 KZ900 and saw just from moving out from a start in the parking lot that Z-1 was faster than my KZ. As for the top end, I had my KZ900 up to 120mph on the open road just past Tijuana on the way to Ensenada. A great road for fast driving. I think the bike could have gone a little faster but the bike was new and I wasn't supposed to be driving it that fast in its first miles so I did not take any faster. I did not have any other opportunities to take it that fast again.
Good job John but you might mention that the carbs on the Z were larger as well as the Exh pipe exit. Also yo mentioned that the exh pipes are being remaned so where can I get a set for my 75 Z??
Is it just me or is the Z1/Z900 one of the most elegant bikes ever made?
Had a 78 KZ1000, Looks just like the 900, beautiful.
Not just you... I had one, it was my favorite big bike, I loved that thing!
Had 1, sex on wheels
Iv still got 1 handed down by me dad
Just starting a restoration on a 78. Restored a 73 a bunch of years ago, and got talked into selling it. 😢😢😢 dumb move, missed it right away, and ever since. I may paint my 78 like a 73 and do the 4 into 4 exhaust as a sort of clone, or not not sure yet.
Back in 1975 I purchased a brand new Kawasaki Z1-900 from Ricks Cycle Center in Bound Brook, NJ. Traded in my Triumph Bonneville towards it. If I remember correctly a brand new ‘75 Kawasaki Z1 was selling for $2150 then. What a steal for a SuperBike I will never forget. They only came in 2 Colors Dark Blue and Maroon. Mine was Blue. I always use to tell people back then that driving that Z1 and getting on it to me felt like getting shot out of a cannon. You had to hold on for dear life because that factory seat wasn’t holding you in place. I ended up having to add the Steering Stabilizer to my bike. It made all the difference in the world to the bike at high speeds. Many of my friends got rid of their Triumphs to buy a Z1 like I did. First thing I did with mine was I swapped out the factory Exhaust system for a Yoshimura Black Header. I remember having to get the bike rejetted because of the swap. My Z1 was the fastest motorcycle I ever drove and one dependable motorcycle. The best bike I ever owned. Sadly I had to sell it in 1978 in order to go into business for myself along with my ‘72 Corvette. A year or so later I picked up a wrecked ‘75 Z1 a good friend had owned and fixed it up. Both Z1’s were repainted when I owned them to personalize my taste back then. Sold the 2nd Z1 in ‘82 just before I got married. Gave up motorcycles at that point in time. Felt I had my fill from the late 60’s up to then but I will never forget.
I can relate. We've sold things over the years to stay in business, that now we wish we had back. If you are ever interested in another Z1, let us know. I still have my 66 corvette that I inherited when i was young. Thank you for sharing your memories.
It's fun to follow Johnny when describing the details of these bikes. I too am very familiar with these facts. One thing I learned the hard way was in 1977 when I bought my KZ1000 new for $2499.00 (Leo's Kawasaki ) I came back from a 10,000 mile + trip and had new stainless Manley Valves and 2 sets of Honda 450CC Pistons put in with foam unipod air filters. The guy proudly pointed out where he ground off the Kawasaki CC stamp on the Cyl Head and pounded in the date of his rebuild of the top end. I didn't like it but it was too late to change it. I was a naive 21 yr old and should have realized what this single one man shop owner (Bernie) did. I think he swapped my cyls. with a 900 (903cc) bike and used his date stamp to camouflage his deceitful behavior. But those Honda pistons really increased the compression you could hear the starter motor strain and the kick starting was much harder. When I drove it home and played with it, (never a straight trip home) my arms were sore from the engine pulling the next day. Remember I lived on that bike for awhile so my arms were used to being pulled, unlike taking it out for the first few times in the spring. So when buying these bikes look for the 903cc stamp on the 900's and the 1015cc stamping on the 1000cc bikes.
What memories. I had the '75 903. What a wonderful machine.
I had some friends, a couple that were riding a Z1900 in 1975 in Arizona riding on a two lane highway eastbound from Phoenix going to the White Mountains N.E Az that hit head on into a semi truck. Both were killed instantly and the truck wasn't able to stop for several hundred feet. I had what was left of the engine and two cylinders was scrapped off. A memory I will never forget.
Thanks for the uplifting story Brumley.
So sorry bout your friend's , I too died on a 1974 green H2 , luckily I was shocked back to life and then slipped into 2 moth coma' hence coma kid friend's called me while I was away . still love bikes
Great vid and nice bikes! I had a '75 Z1B but it did not have a steering damper on it. I wish it had. I rode it home to MI from south FL in 1983. I took the long way home. It was a five month trip!! Was home for 2 days and it was stolen 15 minutes after I parked it in Detroit! I still have the vin numbers memorised and still check the rare one I see on the road.
jgibson111
What is the VIN.
Mine was 74021
Thanks John = GREAT JOB!! Been in bikes my whole life - raced MX back in the 60's/70's and rode the bikes in your comparison back in the day. Still riding street today. Just sold a 42 WLA that was owned by a WW2 Vet since its return from duty in Europe. Anyway, two thumbs up for Vintage scoots and for you folks keepin em going!!!
It's our passion. Getting the word out as to the authenticity of these machines. Glad to see people enjoying the info.
@@Johnnysvintage
How do I contact you for parts on these?
Ok John but it's hard to find on TH-cam even if if you punch it in but if you put in " stone " - opening credits - 1974. You will get the one with the opening credits & film of going through the process of starting a Z1 with the - key in ignition - fuel tap on - choke - kill switch - starter- then the guy absolutely nails it , gives it full throttle and go's nuts .. it's quite a sight even this many years later, probably the best opening to a motorbike movie ever .. Hope you like it bloke.
Cool to see a 76 900! I had one just like it I bought in 78. Dumped the horrible 4 into 4 pipes right off for a Kerker. Huge improvement! I put 100k miles on it and sold it to a friend that put on another 100k. Great bikes!
Yea mate you should give yourself a uppercut for slagging off the greatest exhaust exhaust system in the history of motorcycles , where in the hell do you get off fella ., that’s the worst comment I’ve ever read on TH-cam .. un ferking believable
Good Showing! I had Many... 2-75,76,77,80 Never Seen factory installed Fork Steering Dampers ( Special Order ) they First came out for the 72 H2's or Emergency Flash Switch... Main Item not mentioned 75 Carbs were 28mm and 76 26mm for low end power... Thanks for Comparing Models 💥💥🇺🇸💥💥
Good shop. They were a big help to my friend when he restored his '75, it turned out beautifully. Take your checkbook.
I live in Aruba and owned the 1976 kawasaki KZ900 bronce coloured. There were only 4 of 1976 and 2 or 3, 1977 1000. They were imported from Orlando, Florida. I drove it for six years and sold it in 1982. Than I sold it and never saw it again until last january I started to look for it if it is still running and 2 days I came to know that an x cop own 3 of them. Spoke to him and probably one of them is the one I owned. We have now an appointment to see if he has the one I used to owe. How lucky can I be to find it after 37 years. Super Great bike.
Outstanding review Mr John. Thank you!
I miss my 1976 KZ900 LTD !! Changed the pipes to 4 into 2 drag pipes straight thru no restriction - nice & loud when pounding on the RPM's. Adjusted the jets accordingly. Went to 16" rear wheel, one tooth up on primary socket (higher top end). Changed seat and handle bars. Bought NEW in Pa. lived in Del. color - green. Many a fun time.
I remember seeing a report in a cycle magazine about the "New York Steak" which was the code name of the soon to be released Z1. I feel in love! That was when I had just started high school. Eventually I saved enough to buy a new green tank KZ900 for $2250. I ran errands, went to work, traveled the USA and Canada. When I finally went to a bigger bike I had put 75K on my reliable Kawi. I will be shunned but I actually liked the green tank version (but not the sh_t brown version). Like most riders I did many updates: four-into-one exhaust, fairing and saddle bags, stereo, a 1.5 gallon additional gas tank (under the rear rack), etc. Many miles and many good times on that sweet running machine.
Jerry, as my husband and I are sitting here drinking coffee on a Saturday morning, awaiting the 12 inches of snow that's been forecast, your story makes us smile. I too am a long-distance rider so you had me at "additional tank." John and I traveled to Alabama several times, he on his KZ1000A, me on my K75 BMW and we had to stop every 100 miles for fuel as he was lucky to get 30 mpg with speeds of 75+. John doesn't like to accessorize his vintage bikes - he wouldn't even accept a wrist-rest from me in order to make the trip more comfortable! "It's not original" he'd argue. And guess who carried his clothes? Too funny. You can read about our 2014 trip from our old blog on our website: www.johnnysvintagemotorcycle.com/6-day-road-test-on-a-77-kawasaki-kz-1000/
Thanks for sharing and watching our vids.
Two nice bikes one is green and one is brown....Always loved visiting your shop,your a nice guy.
I really liked my 75 Z1B in blue. Had good luck with it and alot of great rides. But those reflectors on the forks and shocks I didn't care for, although probably a good idea.
Very well done and very useful for Z enthusiasts. I rode one on a 600 plus mile tout back in '76. Great rider and a fun trip. Borrowed it from a close friend.
I always love your work johnny, like all of us from this era we all miss a few areas but you bust it's back, Merry Christmas
Saw the title and had to check it out. I was street racing a Yamaha RD400, back in '79, when one of these little rocket ships came by and wanted to challenge the "fastest bike out here." We then explained that we race for pinks or we don't race. He had a moment of hesitation, before giving in to his horribly inflated ego and consented. We both ponied up or pinks and went to our starting line. He was looking pretty damned confident with his new purchase (found out he just got the bike a week ago), so up to the line we go (my girlfriend was the starter girl). He actually beat me off the line, but couldn't touch me after about the 100 ft. mark. When I crossed the line I immediately swung around to go pick up my newly won pink slip. Mr. KZ 900 was close behind and immediately started whining about an unfair start, yada, yada. We all just laughed at him. He came back about an hour later w/ a police escort, wanting his pink slip back. We explained how it went down and how the race ended and after a few tense moments, he told the guy he should be more discerning when asking for races. We all threw up a cheer, as the poor schmuck turned and walked away.
You got him before he learned to ride the z. Took me about three back tires to get the hole shot down. Shifting two second and third had to be done at the right time and throttle or you would spin the tire and lose time. Smokie burnouts were fun and looked cool but not the fastest times. Mine would leave black snake marks till almost time to grab 4th gear.
@@eagle777dh I ended up selling the RD and keeping the Kawasaki cause it so much better on gas and way better on the freeways of San Diego. Great balance, as I could (and often did) ride a wheelie for miles, even changing lanes, just not in heavy traffic. Not very good powers of discernment when you're a teen. I would take off in second gear during the rainy season to keep it from losing grip, as well as on sandy surfaces near the beach.
That was a great show thanks so much.
Not bad, but there are lots of other differences that you didn't mention Johnny. The Z1 sidecover (LS) has a hole for the oiler but the KZ doesn't. And by the way....the Z1 brake rotor is held with 6 bolts, not 5.
I had a 1975 Kawasaki 900 Z1 same color same style as the one you got right there that's exactly what I had everything you pointed out Pioneer 900 was exactly the same as mine and I know who still has it
I remember when the Kaw 900's ruled the streets. Had that distinct sound, the sound of Summer!
Dave Kana from 3500rpm to the top. I loved hearing it.
Awesome video mate and some great differences you have pointed out, otherwise would not be appreciated.... thanks a lot
Loved my '79 KZ900, but it wasn't quite as quick as my Yamaha '76 RD400. I won the KZ in a bet riding my RD in an 1/8th mile. Sold the RD and kept the KZ for several years before I sold it to do some traveling. Would love to have that bike again, as it was a great highway cruiser.
I can remember in the mid seventies the local bike club ( Jones street, Newark) guys had a lot of Kawasaki 900's and Honda CB 750's all hopped up. Well those bikes were really quick and I believe the Kawasaki was the king of the hill at the time. I know they sounded BAD ASS !
Working on my co workers 76 KZ900, just went through the front brakes, was able to get things back working again with new hosed top, and bottom, he's selling it, has the Kirker header on it. I when we get it running will post up videos.
I am interested in it
@@Johnnysvintage It's a California bike, will let you know!
I bought a new KZ900 in 1976-$2500. You could have had one much cheaper if you shopped around. At $2500 I should have bought a dozen.
Road tests of the day showed very little difference in acceleration between the Z-1 and the KZ. I still have these magazine tests. However there was a slight top speed advantage to the Z-1 probably due to the 28 mm carbs vs the 26 mm carbs. My friend thought my KZ was "Quicker through the gears." than his Z-1. But, by then his 74 Z-1 had had quite a bit of hard use.
One undeniable performance observation was the effect of installing a tuned four into one exhaust header. The one I put on was made by Denco. The only jetting change I made was to increase the main jet size by several numbers. Of course the needles should have been shimmed up a bit for optimal performance. The effect on performance was stunning. I can only qualify this by a seat of the pants observation but that tach needle was far quicker to the 9,000 rpm redline than with the original four pipes. It sounded nice too without being too loud.
I had the 76 KZ 900 that I bought new back then and it did not have the emergency flasher as shown in the video here. I bought the bike from a south Florida Kawasaki dealer.
FWIW, I had one on my '76 KZ900. Bought it in L.A., CA.
I didn't have one on mine either.
Good video. I had 77 z1000 Z1A it had dual front disc brakes and a disc brake on the rear. I had straight handle bars which suited me better than the high standard ones. I wish I had it now it was stolen in 89. I had some identifying marks if I ever see it again.
Great, and very informative John, but You didn't go into the main differences in the Motors. From what i remember, the Z1 had larger diameter carbs. Thanks.
+Denny Mcfastlane 28mm then in '76 went to 26mm
+TheKawasakikid1 Thanks!
John does mention the differences in the carbs.
I almost bought a kz900 with a kerker pipe 22 years ago it handled like a wheelbarrow with an under inflated tyre . my woman at the time convinced me to buy a Honda shadow 1100 instead she was an alcoholic so the back rest helped her stay on . I later had a kz 650 bored to 710cc with Andrews cams it flew along but the brakes were old hat it leaked oil a lot I also had a kz 1100 shaft drive it took a lot of abuse but leaked oil and the wireing was rubbish . over all nice old bikes to show and parade but need to be ridden gently tour along rather than trash them . still enjoyable to ride just respect them and nurse them along .
I was kind of hoping you'd mention about the engine tech details such as horsepower, torque, compression, valve size, carb size, transmission ratios and so on. The other details were interesting never the less, thanks.
and also the Z1 had a shorter swing line....
Had a 76 KZ 900 that I had bored out to 1086 with 11-1 comp pistons. It ran GOOD!!
Saw a Z1'900 today!! I thought it was a KZ'900 witch I'm some what familiar with because my Uncle had 3 of them in the mid 90's... I was perfect, 2 were parts bike's but could have probably been made into 1 working Bike.. Love these old Kawy's still haven't got to ride one..😢 😢
Takes me back 2 my youth.
Still drive my 1976 KZ900 LTD around town dual disc brakes up front and disc in the back with my upgraded digital ignition and CR29 Velocity stack carbs. Shes a hoot even after 44k miles lol
I've got an LTD too, bought new in '76. Been sitting in my garage all covered up for over 20 years now, I think 13k miles. Love that bike.
Man that 76 KZ900 is sweet!
I have a 76 900 LTD that I ride often. I was thinking of getting a first generation Z1. That would be cool.
Awesome Video! I learned a ton from this video. Thanks so much!
I think that the direction of high performance motorcycles and heritage motorcycles is completely different. I would like manufacturers to continue to make systems like this.
As always thanks for your knowledge.
This man knows his stuff!!!
here there are mostly z1000 and z1300 but quite a few of these turn up here in the uk, bike shops buy those "containers full of bikes" that come over from the usa, but most bikers will steer clear of "import" models mainly due to parts issues, they almost always have different parts to britt models, making parts hard to find though the net is changing that.
a good source of genuine kawa parts here is "cornwall kawasaki" iv'e noticed that the catalogue has listings for a few of the "import" models.
You are one Lucky Guy Johnny to have these well preserved old Kawasaki's from over40 years ago. I can't remember when I last saw one, in any condition. I am 58 years oldand remember this bikes, when they first came out. They were, as you Yanks would say,Awesome. There was "Nothing" on the market at that time that even came close.
I appreciate this video explaining the difference!
Yeah..finally someone points out that the Z1/Z1A/Z1B 900’s were different to the z900 and are not the same thing....however you did manage to miss out some of the main differences. 1st ...the petrol tank, side panels and tail piece are a different shape (not just the back light) 2nd ..the carbs on the Z1 series are 28’s as oppose to 26’s on the z900 also the Z1and Z1A had an automatic chain oiler which was discontinued for the Z1B and subsequentially the z900. They are very different to ride. I owned a Z1B for four years and rode it every day. I have also ridden z900’s and I personally found they lacked the character and the performance of the Z1’s ...much like the H1’s vs the KH’s....kinda a bit slower and less raw and wild..
I am not sure about the differences between the USA and UK. I was in the market for a Z1B in 1976 but the dealers were sold out and the Z900 was coming. However differences were twin disc front brakes and smaller carburettors on the Z900 to the Z1. Also they had a 4 into 2 exhaust not the 4 into 4 as on the Z1. The power delivery was also softer and fortunately the frame flexed less than the Z1. Bit I didn’t go ahead and purchase the Z900, I wanted a Z1 and nothing else would do. Apologies to USA brethren, we didn’t have the K in front of the model references.
thank you . started with h1 and progressed to 73 z1 to kz 1000 .
I wish you would have started them and just let us hear the classic vintage rumble
Have a Z1 900 now I have owned it since it was new great bike. Looking to sell it now has all original parts tool box tool bag and tools, document tray air filters carburetors. Ran two years ago been in the shed stored inside all its life.
I am interested in buying it. Please contact us 330-335-7365 or info@johnnysvintagemotorcycle.com
Awesome side-by-side comparison!!! I even learned something!!!! Thanks!!!!
You left out the turn signal beeper on the 76. I'm sure you knew this but didn't point it out, that the name ONLY changed to KZ because of a corporate decision to change ALL the names beginning with the 1976 line-up to one with a "K" prefix and had nothing to do with the subtle updates. (KZ, KH, KX, KE, KS etc...) In fact the "Z" was so important that they kept it though it didn't necessarily "fit" into the new nomenclature. The frame VIN designation says it all "Z1". The 76 handled better, carbureted better and was only 1hp down to the original 72 model, pretty good considering the quieter exhaust, smaller carbs and intake silencer. The beefier frame was definitely needed, but boy were the paint options BORING in 76 ~~ !!
Excellent video otherwise, keep them coming !
BTW, were there any dimensional differences between the pre-76 and 76 Z1 fuel tanks? I hear the 76'ers are wider, but I cant tell....
ALOHA!
Thank you very much for the info! To the best of my knowledge the tanks are the same dimensions, but it's not something I've really paid attention to.
I suspect it would be a lot more than 1HP in actual Dyno testing whatever claims Kawasaki made for crank figures. Same thing happened to the H2 in its second year, with Kawa claiming just a one HP drop, but in actual testing , it was much slower. The mods Kawa made to the `76 900 would tell me the bike lost at least 5hp off the top end, and with the weight increase, would have made the bike feel quite tame in comparison to the first year 900.
My dream bikes are vintage bikes, a Kawasaki KZ, a Honda CB, or a Triumph 650 Bonneville.
Excellent job.
Thank you.
Sérgio Carvalho
Portugal
those both look like kawasaki 900's to me and i searched for the Kawasaki 1900 and it took me here
I actually had a 1976 Z1 900. It said so right on the plate on the neck. People said there was not such thing, so that is the reason I checked. It was on the Certificate of Title, too. However it had features of the KZ900.
According to our information from Kawasaki, they made a KZ900A in 76 and 77, although the vin# started out with Z1F on the frame. I know there are some exceptions for Australia but I'm not sure of all the details.
Starting in 1977 all KZ were 1015cc displacement. I know, I was there. I had two friends with new 1977 KZ1000s.
Great video, thanks.
My dad had both bikes. First the Z he road it into the ground then came across a mint kz in the late 80s I actually took my motorcycle license test on in 1995. He retired the bike in 2000 when he picked up a concours.
I had a 76 KZ900..oh I miss it. Took it to 147mph overloaded with gear as I was moving from Md to Ca...best trip of my life. Now I ride a Harley , and love it to...but it is no KZ!
Here's a nice '76 for sale at a reasonable price.
Sounds good. Wish I was there!
I bought a 1976 KZ 900 new, same emerald green as the one in this video, and had it stock, except for upgraded ignition coils and a converted pressurized air/spring shock front end. Doing all the mechanics on the bike myself, I kept the bike running perfectly. This highest speed that I could get out of it was 130 mph on flat road at sea level, in the Florida Everglades, with me laid down on the tank.
No way on this earth did a 76 kz900 hit 147mph, I've owned both a Z1b and a Z900 either your speedo was way out or you were dreaming my friend!
Correct. 130 true mph is the best that these bikes could do. The first ones a little faster than the later `76 green ones, which were heavier and made a bit less power due to emissions. Even the first model 900 only made 64 bhp approx rear wheel in actual Dyno testing, though they did seem very powerful at that time. People see these kinds of bikes through rose tinted glasses with regards to performance !!!
Nice video. Takes me back! Next time treat your viewers to the sound of the exhaust pipes on each.
The 1975 (Z1B) had 28mm carbs where as the KZ900 had the 26mm carbs.
Christopher Lynn you are right
on my 75 z1 i changed to 1973 carbs for they had float bowls with removable drain plugs with access to the main jet for ease of rejeting.
To my infinite regret when after purchasing the '76 KZ900 I tried out someone's Z-1 and I saw immediately I had the slower bike. This particularly burned me up since I had been to a bike shop that was full of new Z-1's from all the previous years and I did not realize that buying a current model in '76 would get me a slower bike. Dang and Dang.
GUPPYKIWI it’s true!.... I owned a 1975 Z1B which I used everyday winter thru summer for five years. Great bike! . A few years a ago I borrowed my sisters husbands z900 and was amazed at how much slower it was!
Yeah, you're right. Like I said, the bike shop I had gone to was full of '75's and I think '74's. I wish the guy there had told me the KZ's were slightly slower. I didn't even have to get out of the parking lot to immediately see my KZ was slower than this '75 I was trying out. Dang and Dang. It was plenty fast but the Z-1's are scary fast just going from zero to even twenty miles per hour. Next time....
It seems like the late 70s KZ 900 has many different versions. Some have dual disc brakes, mags, flat seat, spoked rims, pleated seat, small front fender, larger front fender , chrome gauges, black gauges and so on. Was there different designation for these bike , like LTD I saw some have on a side cover or were these options on the KZ 900 model?
Yes, in 1976 they came out with the LTD
The Z2 was the exact same bike but with a shorter stroke crankshaft than the 900's 66 mm crank, making it 750cc. Those bikes were sold in Canada and Europe, I believe. Also, pretty sure the early 900s had 28mm carbs where the '76, and then the 1000s had 26 mm Mikuni carbs. Those stock pipes bring big bucks...
I’m a proud owner of a 75’. Z1b w/14k on the clock Not a 100% original, paint, exhaust are different, but everything else has been unadulterated. I was so lucky to stumble across it. Wasn’t even in the market for a bike. I friend said he ran across a gal that wanted to sell a Kawasaki motorcycle. I asked my friend what size, he said 900. The antennas on my head immediately started twitching. I immediately loaded him into my car and headed over to the sellers house. Sure enough Z1b. I hate to say it but literally stole it from her as she was an uninformed seller. Honestly I gave her twice what she wanted. LoL. Over the years I’ve watched the value of these bikes soar, never dreaming they would reach the values they have.
I can check on Tuesday when we open. I know we have OEM quality clutch cables in stock that we import from Japan. Give us a call!
We only replace the cables if they are worn out.
You have a Z1B and a KZ900 A4 in this video.
great video! thanks!
I know this is an old video but the title should have a space or hyphen in between Z1 and 900... Its not a Z1900, its a Z1-900. Or 900 Z1. But spelling error aside, these are some great bikes. Rode one before, and own a 78 KZ750 twin. These older kawasakis are gems.
thanks for this useful video. Rob and Jane in the UK
1975 Z1-b Serial number 74021. That’s was mine. 50,000 miles of WFO fun.
Love K zs had a few!
Thanks John! Let the Good Times Roll
Hello Johnny! Do you by chance have a oem clutch cable for a 76 kz 900? Mine just broke which is the original. I'm here in Brunswick, OH. thanks
We have a nice clutch cable that we order from Japan with the spring on it just like genuine. I have one in stock I can sell to you for $40. It’s nice. We use it on all the restorations that we do.
I have a few valve shims to adjust valve clearance for z1 900 and kz900
Performance wise which one is faster or are they the same
absolutely beautiful bikes
A beautiful bike and very powerful
Hello Johnny. I live in Sheboygan Wi & IAM looking for a Z1 around my area. Can you give me suggestions for my search. Thank you
Paint difference between the two bikes is & was chalk & cheese, the ZiB is a stunner both in paint quality & taste of design, the KZ not so much .. I'm sure some people like the green but when it came out after after the previous Z1s, Z1As & this ZiB it was considered to be a money saver Job by Kawasaki and was defiantly not done by the previous designer .. if you'd never seen the the other 3 models before seeing it I'm sure it would be fine but after those first three models had raised the bar so high for Japanese paint jobs it was a huge step backwards. And the KZ 1000 was more of the same with another Lame paint job & went from having the best looking & sounding 4 exhaust pipes ever fitted on the 900s to a bike with the biggest piece of shit 4 into 2 hair dryers on the KZ1000s & someone at Kawasaki should have been flogged within a inch of their life for what they did to the legend of Z1s.
I agree with you 1000 % Queenslander. A neighbour of mine in Ireland showed up on the countries first original Z1b in 1972. Stunning looking bike with that blacked out engine and paint job/ exhausts. He just traded in his gorgeous first year Blue Mach IV against it, another stunner from Kawa. Both of these bike really went downhill past the Z1a model and `74 H2 in my opinion. Heavier, slower and plainer looking. The Z1000 was just so bland by comparison too.
Queenslander ረተከበከለለለነ፤፤፤፤፤፤፤
Queenslander ፐፖa፤፤a፤፤፤
You confused me for a second when at 00:54 you said the Z900 has an aluminum hub where the Kawasaki has a black hub.
What Kawasaki? 😵
Hi Johny, thank you for explaining the difference of the 2 models.I noticed a small difference at the lower fork bridge, Is it correct that the screws for mounting are in the z1 in a 45 degree angle and in the kz900 they go in straight!?
I am currently building a kz 900 out of parts together.
Sorry for my bad english, greetings from Berlin, Germany Steppe
I have a KZ1000D Z1R Im trying to get it going and had a few questions about high speed wobble. It is stock except for tires and different rubber goods. Opened up the motor because it had low compression on 2 cylinders found two stuck ring. Have a few other questions. How is the best way to contact you Have really enjoyed your channel
Excellent Johnny, except didn't you mean the Z1 rotor is held on with 6 bolts?
You'll notice a correction at 1:19 into the video.
This is the difference between 76 and earlier models. KZ throughout the line was US or N.American designation, the rest of the world just got z900, z650, z750, z1000, where the US got KZs.
Kawasaki later created more international confusion with ZZR and ZX model mixups.
Great video Johhny, Mate if you want to see heaps of Z1s & Z1As & Bs check out 'Stone' a 1970s Australian Movie it's a trip .. Literally , it's got lots of good riding, wheelies etc .. the story is a bit 'how's your father' but who cares it's got lots Kwakka 9s in it .. pretty much the forerunner to the original ' Mad Max' with some of the same stunt riders in it.
I'll have to check that out!
Fabulous film mate. Another goodun if you like old Kwaks is "L'agression", 1975 French film with Catherine Deneuve.
How’s the difference in paintwork , Z1B is amazing compared to the Z900 .. the bloke who designed the first 3 models definitely didn’t design the budget Z900 paintwork where you can run your fingernails over the edges of the pinstripes.
What would have made the Z1 a much better power plant is a better linkage with the carburetors , it was a pain to keep the carbs synchronized !
If you have an old Z1 find yourself a set of Z1R carburetors , they are that much better and will transform it into a smooth and tractable engine !
I have a 1980 Z1000 fuel with fuel injection only 4000 miles on it
I will be at your house tomorrow with a fistful of cash!
As an ex 72 H-2 owner i see so many of the same parts.
Hi I now live in Australia, but from Ohio. I have purchased a 1979 KZ1000LTD restoration bike. It's all OEM but needs tiding up. It is missing the LTD grab rail. If you can help with finding the grab rail new or in good condition just might need to be re-Chromed. Thanks Garry'
Might be worth checking out Z Power in the UK mate.
Lovely bikes.I wish I had one
As far as I am aware, the models for the European market had only the Z prefix whereasmodels mainly for the US market were KZ. If my memory serves me correct.
Now that I remember, the Original Z1 had a Black motor. and that separated it from all successive years.
I cannot be sure about this because I'm not familiar with European vin numbers. If you're interested, I can look it up in some of my books and get back with you.
To the best of my knowledge, the 73 model had a black engine, whether it was a Z1 or a Z2. I'm not 100% sure but I believe the European models up until around 78 had a long rear fender, a band that went around the seat, and the mileage would be in kilometers on the majority of them. Some of them actually had high-speed warning indicator lamps on them. I believe that was on the Japanese models.
I have just Googled info on the Z900 and the original first model from1972 had the black engine, with orange or yellow coloured paint jobon the tank. From 72 to 76 the engines had the more attractive polished alloy finish to the engine, and less garish paint job on thetank, such as those you have there. Usually a dark mwtallic greenor metallic brown which looked far better. Although colours variedfrom one country to another.
i live in europe and i confirm: the European models up until around 78 had a long rear fender, a band that went around the seat, and the mileage would be in kilometers on all the machines
I am just that much more informed than I ever was.
What are the performance differences?
Jeremiah Mckenna Z1’s are about 10 mph faster @ the top end
I'm sure they were faster off the line, too. I rode a friend's Z-1 to compare to my '76 KZ900 and saw just from moving out from a start in the parking lot that Z-1 was faster than my KZ. As for the top end, I had my KZ900 up to 120mph on the open road just past Tijuana on the way to Ensenada. A great road for fast driving. I think the bike could have gone a little faster but the bike was new and I wasn't supposed to be driving it that fast in its first miles so I did not take any faster. I did not have any other opportunities to take it that fast again.
hi Johnny, Do you have an KH 100 to make some videos? thanks for posting your vids
Good job John but you might mention that the carbs on the Z were larger as well as the Exh pipe exit. Also yo mentioned that the exh pipes are being remaned so where can I get a set for my 75 Z??
I have one set left, and they are $1400 a set. Contact us!
The carbs on the z1 are 28 mm while the carbs on the kz 900 were 26 mm
Very informative. Thnx.
So he Kz handles better because of the sturdier frame?
I have a 1980 KZ1000 LTD, is the engine basically the same as the Z-1 motor minus the kick start?
Basically the same, however the cylinder heads are a little different, the cylinders are different, and the crank shaft is different.