New from SoCal with a GPz550
- robert b
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New from SoCal with a GPz550
11 Feb 2014 22:01 - 11 Feb 2014 22:03
Hi all -
I just took delivery of a 1982 GPz 550. It is in great condition with very low miles (14k). I had the very same bike 31 years ago. It was my first bike.
As soon as it came off the truck, I took it for a spin. It ran great, although I remembered my old bike being quicker and more powerful. But, I think riding my 100hp plus R1200 GS has altered my perspective a little. The bike is also super quiet with the stock exhaust and mufflers. Back in the day, I had a Yoshimura 4-into-1 ... very loud. Does anyone know where I could find one? Additionally, the front brake lever seems a little soft and the pull to engage the brake seems long. Again, I am not sure if it seems that way because I have been spoiled riding the BMW. In any event, I am looking forward to racking up some miles on the GPz and teaching my 17 year old son to ride it.
I just took delivery of a 1982 GPz 550. It is in great condition with very low miles (14k). I had the very same bike 31 years ago. It was my first bike.
As soon as it came off the truck, I took it for a spin. It ran great, although I remembered my old bike being quicker and more powerful. But, I think riding my 100hp plus R1200 GS has altered my perspective a little. The bike is also super quiet with the stock exhaust and mufflers. Back in the day, I had a Yoshimura 4-into-1 ... very loud. Does anyone know where I could find one? Additionally, the front brake lever seems a little soft and the pull to engage the brake seems long. Again, I am not sure if it seems that way because I have been spoiled riding the BMW. In any event, I am looking forward to racking up some miles on the GPz and teaching my 17 year old son to ride it.
1982 Kawasaki GPz 550
2012 BMW R1200 GS
2012 BMW R1200 GS
Last edit: 11 Feb 2014 22:03 by robert b. Reason: typos
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- kaw-a-holic
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Re: New from SoCal with a GPz550
12 Feb 2014 05:40
Welcome to KZR. I don't have an answer for the pipe. I would suggest some maintenance on the brakes. Swapping to braided stainless lines and new fluid should address the spongy brakes.
Pics of the bike would be nice
Pics of the bike would be nice

Jon
1977 KZ1000a1
Mesa, AZ
Phoenix Fighter Project
1977 KZ1000a1
Mesa, AZ
Phoenix Fighter Project
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- robert b
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Re: New from SoCal with a GPz550
12 Feb 2014 13:29
Here are some pictures I just snapped with my iPhone. And, yes, it is winter in San Diego. 

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1982 Kawasaki GPz 550
2012 BMW R1200 GS
2012 BMW R1200 GS
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- kaw-a-holic
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Re: New from SoCal with a GPz550
12 Feb 2014 14:32
Nice bike! Pretty cool that you are in Cali you still have an opportunity to participate in the North American Relay!
We are also doing a Rally @ Four Corners in August.
We are also doing a Rally @ Four Corners in August.
Jon
1977 KZ1000a1
Mesa, AZ
Phoenix Fighter Project
1977 KZ1000a1
Mesa, AZ
Phoenix Fighter Project
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- robert b
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Re: New from SoCal with a GPz550
26 Feb 2014 15:56
Heading to Four Corners would be tough with my day job. But, I woulld like to participate in the Relay. How do I do that? Thanks
1982 Kawasaki GPz 550
2012 BMW R1200 GS
2012 BMW R1200 GS
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- JR
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Re: New from SoCal with a GPz550
26 Feb 2014 16:09
wow! nice bike
looks to be in mint condition
looks to be in mint condition
1980 kz750E1, Delkevic exhaust
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- robert b
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Re: New from SoCal with a GPz550
26 Feb 2014 16:45
Thanks. The prior owners took great care of the bike.
1982 Kawasaki GPz 550
2012 BMW R1200 GS
2012 BMW R1200 GS
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