'81 KZ550 rocks

I've had this thing for a month and it's awesome. Like everybody else on this forum, the bike started a year or so ago as a complete nail. Some guy bought it, put on new tires (!) and then sold it to another guy, who cleaned the carbs / re-covered the seat / replaced plugs / changed oil / new battery. So other dudes did a bunch of high dollar work, and I bought it for $600. I feel like it was a steal. I did put a new chain on -- the guy I bought it from replaced the sprockets but not the totally trashed chain (?). The carb boots need replacing -- you can see the gap in a few spots, I've sealed up as much as I can but I will probably go for the bicycle inner tube trick over the carb boots.

I simply love this bike. It's light and agile and has got timeless good looks. My first road bike ever was a '79 CB650 (about 10 yrs ago), and this is such a better bike -- lighter, better handling, easier starting. About the same miles (40k or so when they came into my hands). Anyway, if anyone has ideas other than the innertubes on the carb boots, let me know (cone filters?). I know this isn't the best place to ask, but what the hell. Oh, and I can't believe the wheelies this thing pops!

Post edited by: Siggy Javotnik, at: 2007/12/16 20:03

Good score dude! I'm not a big fan of pods, I prefer stock air box with K&N filter inside. You can get boots and tons of other stuff here (PS, put your bike info and location in signature line so we can help you better)

Z1 Enterprises

Post edited by: Bluemeanie, at: 2007/12/16 20:14

Welcome to KZR Siggy, looks like a nice score you made there. It doesn't make much sense to change the sprockets and not the chain does it. Sort of like taking a shower and putting your dirty underwear and socks back on. :laugh: :laugh: :laugh:
To add an avatar and put your info in the sig line, click on "Profile" on any of these pages and enter your info there.
Ride safe

I have a set of carb boots and intake manifolds for that bike if you are interested. I'll make you a good deal on them.

Here's Mine

www.blomenberg.com/KZ550Clingmansdome.jpg



Speed

Post edited by: Speedbump, at: 2007/12/16 22:01

Thanks for the welcome, fellas. And Speedbump, thanks for the offer, you've got mail. On the wheelie comment, I really am a sensible rider - I was just caught off-guard by the power from a 26 year old smaller cc bike. Now I know why people who like KZs really really like KZs.

Siggy,
Welcome!
One of the worst m/c buying:selling mistakes that I made was to sell my '82 GPz550...been trying to remedy that situation every since I caused it. :blush: BTW: nice bike.

I sold my 81 550A and wish I still had it

Siggy Javotnik wrote:

And Speedbump, thanks for the offer, you've got mail.

You have mail back :laugh:

Gotta love those 550's. Not that I'm biased or anything... :blink: Welcome to a great site with great members.

Welcome Siggy!
Just got my 550ltd up and running, sort of . Got a awesome deal too; $100. One bad piston, that's it. Put the pods on mine just for the look and blacked out engine. Only drawback with the pods is you should rejet and it can sound like you have a vac leak when they suck air. slightly annoying, but man do they look cool. Haven't tried wheelies yrt, as soon as I get it tuned right i'll be sure to try.
Nice Bike!!
If you need a tach cable I got one cheap. Ebay jerk had it listed incorrectly, should fit yours though.

Siggy Javotnik wrote:

Anyway, if anyone has ideas other than the innertubes on the carb boots, let me know (cone filters?).

i'd suggest keeping the stock air filter, rather than cone filters.

my kz550 is pure stock and starts, runs cold and runs hot flawlessly.

my kz1000 came with an aftermarket exhaust, cone air filters and new jetting. it coughs and sputters badly when cold and seems kinda gutless on the highway. i'm keeping the aftermarket exhaust but otherwise going back to stock.

for solo riding/touring, the 550 is fine. i only got the kz1000 for taking my wife along.

BTW, welcome aboard!

Welcome aboard and nice buy! I also happen to agree that 550s rock, but I am probably biased as well. Keep us posted as you tweak it.