'77 KZ650 -- Mikuni Kogyo Carbs & Pods

Hey all,

I'm looking to buy a '77 KZ650 on Craigslist. Everything about it is in great shape, but the previous owner has installed pods, and the carbs need to be tuned for them.

I know CV type carbs are not great when paired with pods, and the slider type carbs can be tuned much easier with pods.

Does anyone know if the carbs on this bike are CV or slider type?

Just looking to see if I'll either have a horrible time tuning or have to find a stock airbox to reinstall if I buy it.

Thanks very much!!

A 77 will have mechanical carbs, 24mm Mikunis. You can tell the diaphragm type by the round pan at the top of the cards. You may have an easier time replacing the stock airbox, than trying to re-jet.

Thanks for the response!

Sorry, but I'm pretty new to this stuff. You mean they are mechanical (slide) as opposed to vacuum, correct?

Cause I've read that it's better to use mechanical carbs for pods, since the vacuum types need backpressue that the airbox normally provides or something. Is this true?

I've also heard covering the filters with a bit of oil helps, is this also true?

OR-- do you mean a re-jet is needed either way and it's worth it to go back to the stock airbox? haha

I guess I'm alright with getting a guy to re-jet them for me (first bike, just want to ride now!), if it isn't going to be a constant pain ass even after. I'm willing to learn to re-jet in the winter-- when I can't ride haha.

Yup, if that bike has the original carbs, they are not the CV type.

You can jet any carb to run with pods, but it probably easier to put an air box back on for most people.

Pods are needed when you install larger carbs and can't use the factory air box. Unless you prefer the look, or are drag racing, the bike will most likely run better with the air box.

Great! Thanks so much for your help.

I'll take a look on ebay for some stock airboxes.