Ignition on 1983 KZ 550

Hello,

I recently a great 1983 KZ 550 that I love. The problem that I have is the ignition switch, the key will only turn to the right just barely at that. I can start and run the bike but I cant even turn the front end to the right or left because it will lock the forks. Is there a trick to unlocking the ignition? Im not sure if its connected but the lights wont turn on now as well. But they did earlier today before it got all locked up. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

if ignition is in locked position you have to push in on key to unlock. your ignition switch may need replacement

I believe on the Kawasaki GPz series of bikes, a square metal rod goes down into part of the frame at the front end providing a steering lock. Perhaps yours needs a little lubrication. Try spraying the mechanism from the bottom with PB Blaster or other penetating oil, and then work the key several times to loosen it up.