New member shopping for a KZ400/KZ650b1

Hey everyone,

I'm a new rider, who enjoys the style and sound of classic bikes over their modern counterparts.

I'm taking a drive to take a look at a KZ400 which is priced at $800 and I'm curious what I should be on the lookout for. I've already taken a look at the technical tips offered here: kz400.com/TechnicaltipsFrameset.html , but I can always use more information. As most online seller typically claim, "everything works great"… we'll see.

About myself, I'm a 31, live in Connecticut, and I've been putting off my first motorcycle purchase for far too long enough. I'm fairly comfortable a wrench, but time is not on my side to have a continuing project. I'd like to get a solid runner, and fix up other bits along the way.

The KZ400 was a great little bike in it's day. It was a commuter bike and not a performance machine so don't expect to be impressed if you are looking for speed.
The good: Fun to ride around town, nimble, good on gas, quiet. somewhat rare.
The bad: carbs can be a pain, parts are hit and miss. Try finding a new front brake caliper rebuild kit, slow, not for the freeway.
Others may disagree.
All that said. I love mine but I am keeping it as a low mileage survivor, restoration candidate.

Title says "New member shopping for a KZ400/KZ650b1"

The KZ400 is a totally different animal than the KZ650. What is your intended use of the bike? Ed

Intended use is something to learn on and keep for the long term.

I do not plan on chopping it up for a cafe racer project. Just a cool little bike to put some miles on, keep long term. I found beauty of a 650b1 for sale, but keeping my first bike purchase cheap is my main goal.

Considering that keeping the cost low is a priority it is important to spot any problems with the bike before buying. Depending on the nature of the problems, fixing stuff can quickly become quite expensive.

Since it's your first bike I suggest you take a seasoned motorcycle rider with you to look at the bike. Anyone you know who has been riding for a number of years will be more than happy to do this; after all they get to ride a different bike and that's fun. Let him/her take it for a good test ride and report any issues or concerns. That's the only way to see if the brakes, engine, tranny, etc. are working well. A bike can look good and idle well but still have brake problems, engine problems, etc. A test ride will usually show any serious problems. Ed

I'd get the 650 if it is in better shape. It will last you longer because of the power and repairing it would be money better spent. Yes bring a seasoned rider with you.
Steve

Maybe spend a little more cash and look at this one in R.I,, Looks nice www.kzrider.com/forum/23-for-sale/599337...sale-in-rhode-island

my first street bike was a kz400 but then i bought a 77 kz650 what a bike,still wish i had her

No eBay APP ID and/or Cert ID defined in Kunena configurationI cant believe there were no bids on this fine looking SR 650, with only 5400 miles on it
Pete

swest wrote: I'd get the 650 if it is in better shape. It will last you longer because of the power and repairing it would be money better spent. Yes bring a seasoned rider with you.
Steve

Good advice. The 650 is a great bike and a little more practical than the KZ400.
Or get the 400, and ride it while you clean it up and trade up when you are ready.

riturbo wrote: Maybe spend a little more cash and look at this one in R.I,, Looks nice www.kzrider.com/forum/23-for-sale/599337...sale-in-rhode-island

I saw that CL listing, and it is a beautiful bike. Unfortunately, it's more than I'm comfortable spending. Also, having a light bike is pretty important to me. I'm 5"11/160 and I want to feel confident maneuvering this thing.

I ended up pulling the trigger on the KZ400. The price was right, seller seemed like a stand-up guy and my buddy approved of the purchase. He only rides dirt bikes, but better than nothing.

So, consider me officially part of the club. Hello everyone.

Congratulations. Where are the pics?