How do I tell the difference between the KZ1100...

Standard model and the cruiser model for 1983 (and beyond)? I've noted a few I have seen have a short chrome fender, which I think are the cruiser/chopper style models. I'm familiar with the Suzuki GS G/GL models in this regard, but don't know much about the Kawasaki equivalents, such as what years they were made and distinguishing characteristics.

I looked in the model database here but it only went up to 1982. I tried the search function here but I didn't see a way to thin out the results- I'm not used to this forum's software, I usually am on a Vbulletin or SMF forum. The online info sites I've found have not been very clear on these models.

The reason I'm asking is I've found one of interest & will attach a low quality picture. It has the chrome front fender, so I'm figuring it started out as the cruiser model.

Thanks in advance.

Hello ZG1K...the time period you inquire about (the early 1980's) was a critical period in the evolution of Kawasaki. The KZ line was dying (the last general consumption KZ model in the US was the 1984 KZ700A1...although the purpose-built KZ1000P (Police) line lived until 2005). The 'standard' KZ bikes were not replaced (the 1983 KZ1000J3 was the last) while the KZ 'cruiser' bikes were replaced first by the ZN (LTD) line in 1984 then later by the VN (Vulcan) line in 1986. The KZ 'sport' bikes were replaced by the ZX 'Ninja' line in 1983 (although a few models persisted until 1984) The KZ1300 (6) line persisted until 1988 then was essentially replaced in 1986 by the ZG1200 line and also the competing ZG1000. What you have pictured is either a 1981/82/83 KZ1100A1/A2/A3 which is not considered a 'cruiser' styled model but rather a 'highway' model complete with driveshaft. I suspect the fender was added later in the bike's life. The 'cruiser' model would have been the 1982/83 KZ1100D1/D2 Spectre. So, there isn't much after 1983...which is why you can't find much

Perhaps the VIN and date of manufacture will appear on right hand side of the steering neck and/or paperwork such as owner's title certificate and/or tag registration.

The VIN (vehicle identification number) usually reveals some information as to the particular model involved.

Kawasaki offered for a year or so some Vetter-equipped fours as touring models with fairing, saddlebags and tail trunk.
Perhaps the bike in question began its life as a "Kawasaki by Vetter."

Check out these links:

www.craigvetter.com/pages/Owners%20bikes...ikes%20page%208.html

www.craigvetter.com/images/Vetter%20Fair...s/Kaw%20650-1000.PDF



Many owners of "naked" KZ's -- and other brands -- dressed their own bikes with the then popular various aftermarket Vetter items.

The large dual seats were also popular additions from several aftermarket suppliers (but not Vetter items as I recall).

Good Fortune!

Thank you both for the information.

I found a site that listed several 80's models, and I found this information:

KZ1100-A1= 1981 standard shaft
KZ1100-A2= 1982 standard shaft
KZ1100-A3= 1983 standard shaft

KZ1100-D1= 1982 Spectre shaft (style option to LTD model)
KZ1100-D2= 1983 Spectre shaft "

KZ1100-L1= 1983 LTD shaft (cruiser style)
KZ1100-L4= 1985 LTD

It did not list a D3, D4, L2, or L3.

I did see a 1983 Spectre with Vetter faring & bags as a dealer add-on at Craig Vetter's site. On another page there, Craig Vetter says the Kawasaki by Vetter (KBV) fairings didn't have the leading edge lights. The one I'm looking into does not, so it must be a KBV setup.

I don't want to branch off topic too far, but does $600 seem reasonable for a running 24K mile 1983 A3 (presuming that is what it is)? I know the fairing & bags have to be worth a bit. It's about 8 hours away, and I may call to get some more info & possibly the VIN to ensure it's what I'm looking for.

Link to the 11/21 CL ad .

Thanks again.

Yep...you about have it covered with the models you listed...although there was no 1985 KZ1100-L4 (not to mention any L2 or L3) The KZ1100-L1 was only offered one year...the bike switched monikers in 1984 and 1985 from a KZ1100 to a ZN1100-B1 and ZN1100-B2. There also was no KZ1100-D3 or D4.

...and for a running KZ1100A model w/luggage, US$600 is a decent price. but it could be a money pit too. The bike needs much in the way of cosmetics.

ZG1K wrote:

...Craig Vetter says the Kawasaki by Vetter (KBV) fairings didn't have the leading edge lights. The one I'm looking into does not, so it must be a KBV setup....

Early Vetter fairing design didn't have leading edge lights.

Might enjoy this site, which includes Vetter fairing design history.
www.craigvetter.com/pages/Vetter_Fairing...er_Fairing_made.html