side cover for '78 KZ650D

I'm trying to get a replacement side cover for my '78 KZ650D. I found one online for about $60, but it's from a '79 KZ650. I don't know the specific model number yet. It looks like it's the same, but I'd like to be sure before I plop down $60.

I'm new to this (this is my first bike), but it seems like all the KZ models have slight differences and I'm trying to figure out if this one will work or not. Any ideas/suggestions?

There is a difference between the side covers that fit the B and C models and what you need for your bike. Which side are you missing? I have covers from a 79 that will fit your bike there is however a difference in the emblems from 78 to 79.

Yeah the D model side covers are larger, taller in height.
B&C covers will fit the mounts, but are slightly shorter.
Not sure, but the bottom mount may be lower on the D.

I'm missing the left side. I live Dayton, so I might even be able to head up your way once I get the bike back from the shop. Might even be a good first road trip for me. I'm not really concerned about the emblems since the right side doesn't have any and I'm planning on eventually doing a custom paint job anyway.

I've looked at some breakdowns of the different models over the years, but it's a little confusing, especially to a newbie, with all these different B, C, D, SR, etc. models. Since it's a '78, I think it's a D1 and it looks like the D model is the same as the SR model, but I'm not sure.

BTW, before you suggest it, I've already registered at kz650.info, so I'll be poking around over there too.

Max the SR is the D model. I have a left cover from a 79 in good shape you can have it for $50.00. If you plan on riding up you better hurry, they are predicting some snow for this weekend :laugh: might be a better idea to just send it UPS. Let me know if you want it.

The linked post has a pic of a b or c side cover and a d or sr side cover. You will see the difference in size that others have spoken of.

kzrider.com/index.php?option=com_kunena&...d=5&id=409493#409635

Right now I'm waiting to get the bike back from the shop. The guy who sold it to me worked on the carbs for six months and still couldn't get them right. It barely ran when I picked up from him, so I'm hoping that a pro shop will have better luck. My seller zip-tied a temporary cover on the side, so replacing it isn't crucial right now, but I'd like to get it replaced sometime before the end of the year.

The one I was looking at on Ebay was $50 plus S&H and had no emblems, so it might match the right side one I've got better, unless I buy both of yours. We'll see. First I need to get it back from the shop and hope it finally runs right.

Thanks, that picture helps a lot.