might be getting a 550, have questions

I am in process of restoring my 81 j 1000.I might be acquiring a 550,looks like ltd if they made them, its about a 89-90 model.been sitting in a barn for years.I know what parts cost for my kz 1000.are they comparable for the 550? This will have to be a complete teardown, whereas my bike was a running being ridden bike when I bought it.I never want to alter from stock.How much power do these little bikes have? I expect i might spend over $1000 to get it in ok condition.Thats if the motor is good.Input appreciated.

KZ550's were only brought to the U.S. until about 1984.
The ZX550's were sold here til about 1985. There may have been a few 1986 models brought in from other countries, though.
After that, I think the only 550's in the U.S. were ZR550's, known as Zephyrs.
Globally, the KZ550's and ZX550's went on for several more years, and some possibly into the 1990's.

So it would be a non-KZ, or from an earlier year if it's in the U.S.


In the U.S.,
Parts for KZ550's are very inexpensive compared to the liter bikes.
Parts for ZX550's are a little more costly, and a little harder to get.
Parts for ZR550's are a little more costly, but much harder to find.
Shaft drive parts are a little harder to come by as well, but still not as costly as the 1000's.

loudhvx wrote: KZ550's were only brought to the U.S. until about 1984.
The ZX550's were sold here til about 1985. There may have been a few 1986 models brought in from other countries, though.
After that, I think the only 550's in the U.S. were ZR550's, known as Zephyrs.
Globally, the KZ550's and ZX550's went on for several more years, and some possibly into the 1990's.

So it would be a non-KZ, or from an earlier year if it's in the U.S.


In the U.S.,
Parts for KZ550's are very inexpensive compared to the liter bikes.
Parts for ZX550's are a little more costly, and a little harder to get.
Parts for ZR550's are a little more costly, but much harder to find.
Shaft drive parts are a little harder to come by as well, but still not as costly as the 1000's.

Thanks for all those good answers.The guy doesnt know bikes so I bet its about a 85 model or similar.I read they have about 54 hp.Plenty enough for 1 up touring.

Great engine connected to a nice 6 speed tranny. Fun to ride. Light and nimble great power to weight experience. Love them and 650's.