1977 KZ 1000 - whats it worth?

A buddy of mine just emailed me asking what a 1977 KZ1000 with a "tweaked" front end was worth?

I know nothing more than that, but was wondering what one would be worth in average shape, runs ok, 40,000 miles.

Does this bike have the MKII motor in it?

My buddy is a wheeler 'n dealer, so I am guessing he found a steal somewhere

The market has not improved on the KZ1000 (1015cc) line through time (contrary to the Z1 line which really increased but has stabilized lately). At best, I'd term the sales market 'flat'. This is primarily due to an large number of bikes produced, particularly for the B model. The A model is another story, the 1977 and 1978 A models are similar in resale to the B line, but the 1979 and 1980 A models are worth considerably more. However, since your buddy is looking at either a 1977 A or B model (or maybe C?), then one of those might bring US$2500 to $3000 IF IT WAS IN EXCELLENT condition. Most are not...and a running 1000A/B but in cosmetically challenged condition might bring US$1000...one with a 'tweaked' front end would generate considerably less interest and money.

bear with me... but what is the difference between the A/B/C models in 1977? I'm assuming one is a standard, one an LTD the other a CSR?

apbling wrote:

bear with me... but what is the difference between the A/B/C models in 1977? I'm assuming one is a standard, one an LTD the other a CSR?

A = standard
B = LTD
C = Police (but in retrospect, the first C model was produced in 1978 year model (actual production in late 1977)

could u elaborate on the prices anymore? i run a 78a 1000 in real nice shape for the age,also im up in mass where these old kaws seem to be in a classic category as the first superbike. im no expert but ive seen 73s going for huge money on ebay.....would it seem to be an appreciating bloodline???

depends on where you live. I got my 77 one owner with 13K on the clock for $1600. I'm sure in other parts of the country it would be worth a lot more. If it needs the front end replaced but runs good a grand would be about right i would think.

ace wrote:

could u elaborate on the prices anymore? i run a 78a 1000 in real nice shape for the age,also im up in mass where these old kaws seem to be in a classic category as the first superbike. im no expert but ive seen 73s going for huge money on ebay.....would it seem to be an appreciating bloodline???

Which is exactly what I said. Z1s can be worth serious money..the 1015's much less (unless they are the 1979/1980 A3/A4).

The A3/A4 had the MKII motor, right? I have a buddy with a 79 ST that has the MKII motor...

apbling wrote:

The A3/A4 had the MKII motor, right? I have a buddy with a 79 ST that has the MKII motor...

Correct But that is not the reason they are more valuable than the other 1015 models/years...it is a function of supply and demand...they made considerably fewer of them than the other models.