Trying to Rescue a Late 1970s (1977??) Kawasaki KZ1000

Hi Guys,

These big Kwackers were in the showrooms when I got into motorcycling in the mid-1970s

This big KZ1000 entered my life in late 2022, but I'm not sure what I have, and don't know if it's viable or a boat anchor.

Here's a low resolution image, a bit before I got her.

What can we determine from the chassis and engine numbers in combination with the image.

Thanks, and I'll look forward to continued input as she comes apart, and then knitted back together.

Chassis KZT00A-023894

Engine KZT00AE-016734

 

Japanese made Kz1000A1, by the numbers. Picture didn’t post. 

Thanks, I think I've managed the image.

Definitely an early a model someone put ltd wheels and seat on.

Thanks guys.  Appreciate the input.

Here are a few more pictures that were taken before I got the KZ1000.

I don't think she's been crashed hard or in really bad hands, but perhaps not treated with great reverence !!

 

From the info at CycleChaos & checking a couple of factory service manuals on EB:
Frame number KZT00A-023894 would make it a 1977 KZ1000-A1 (78 A2 models begin at KZT00A-027501).
The 1000B Ltds are KZT00B-xxxxxx.
The same engine number nomenclature was used on the 1000A standard models & B Ltds. and maybe the 1000C police bikes.

see manual on EB item #134393596413. back cover has beginning frame numbers plus info that highlights some of the model features such as the wheels & brakes.

That mahoosive headlight bracket does it no favours 

What it should look like.

 

That would be a keeper. As mentioned it has had LTD mag wheels swapped in, including a dual front disc setup installed. 

Front pegs are suspect. Maybe need to swap right and left around. 

Your newfound treasure has many add ons that indicate it was dearly loved at some point.  Thank you for deciding to bring it back to its original glory.

PS the valve cover looks to be from a Z1.  See Warren's bike for the difference.

Both the frame and engine numbers posted fall within theh numbers posted on zedder.com, which has listings for frame and engine numbers that I have found to be rather accurate.

zedder.com/Info/77%20KZ1000-A1.htm

Thanks guys, those are some very pretty bikes.

My efforts go mostly into the mechanical side (to avoid calling friends with trailers), but I'll try harder than usual to make things look good.

I started with the brakes, which is my habit, just to make sure she's safe if it ever rolls at speed.The rubber brake lines certainly need replacement and those little friction pads in the front calipers don't have much "meat" left.

Just wondering as I am trying to do research on my own KZ. Why did the 77A model vins start at 000101 instead of 000001 ?  Anybody. Thanks ahead.