My first project (550 LTD?)

New to the forum, and the world of bikes. I recently acquired this diamond in the rough, and I am having trouble figuring out exactly what model and year LTD I have obtained. This is my project, and I intend to do it right. I thank you ahead of time for all the help. What year is this bike? Any suggestions for upgrades or maintenance off the bat?
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www.kzrider.com/forum/8-about-the-site/5...e-a-pic-in-your-post

Looks like a KZ550C Ltd. Not sure of the year. They were available in the U.S in 1980 through 1983 as KZ550C1 through KZ550C4 designations. The vin will tell you the number after the letter "C". From that you can tell what model year it was. (The manufacture date may be the year before the model year.)

Check my signature for info, and download all of the manuals.

TS wrote: ... having trouble figuring out exactly what model and year LTD I have obtained....

Would examine any papers on the bike.

May be a VIN sticker on the bike steering head showing the date of manufacture.

Good Fortune!

I did see this on the bike:

KZ550AE04643

TS wrote: I did see this on the bike:

KZ550AE04643

KZ550AE04643 ? Missing number?

Possibly KZ550AE004643 ?

Good Fortune!

That is the engine number. The KZ550C models used engines from the KZ550A models.
The VIN number will be stamped on the steering tube near the right hand fork tube. There should also be a label there stating the year of manufacture.