Typical challenges with the KZ1000?

Hello all,
First off, I hope I'm posting this in the correct category...if not, my apologies!

I'm looking for a new project bike to use as a daily rider. I like carbs, like '70s era Japanese bikes, and I want something with decent parts availability. ...the '77 or '78 KZ1000 is looking pretty cool.

Every bike has its own pros and cons, and I'd like to ask you guys for some input on things to watch for with the kz1000s....what are typical problem areas? Are the fixes relatively simple/inexpensive? I don't want to go all the way down to the frame for a restoration (just finished a long project that left me a little burned out). At the same time I do enjoy wrenching and wouldn't mind a little here and there to keep my hands busy.

I hear the early kz1000s have reliable engines overall, but braking is weak and handling is not so great...also, a reputation for wobbling at high speed. Is this true, and are the solutions fairly simple with aftermarket parts?
What else should I be looking for?

Thanks for any advice, guys!

Just start at the front and check everything as you go.
Most of the handling issues are caused by junk tires and stock shocks.

Welcome to KZR. If you get a modern compound brake pads and stainless brake lines on the dual disk setup it is more than enough to squall the tire under hard breaking, you just have to use your whole hand as opposed to two or one finger on a newer bike. I never had any wobble on my 1000.

CHP used the KZ1000 for decades. The bikes are very reliable, parts are easy to get and they are easy to work on. A very good choice just make sure you get one that is not abused or neglected.

Thanks for the input, guys! Glad to hear that the handling issues can be resolved, that has been my main concern. I'm keeping my eye open for one of these bikes and I'm sure I'll be back here if I find one soon.

Any major differences between the 77 and 78?

Front brake caliper moved to back of forks in 78,and new rear brake caliper.
Mostly the same bike though.

If we are speaking of the A model (standard, not the LTD) then there are also slight differences between the 1977 and 1978 carbs. Something that has not been mentioned...if you find a motorcycle to your liking and it has low miles (20,000 or less) and the motor has not ever been apart, this is no guarantee that it still doesn't need a minor rebuild. At a minimum, all those rubber cam chain adjusting bits are 30+ years old and likely need replacing. Rephrased, buying a 30+ year old motorcycle can be frustrating, and expensive.

My advice is to find an 81up 1000. The standard J model is my favorite after the Replica. If you can't find a R or J, consider an LTD or CSR, or Police. If you don't like the cruiser styling of these you can install lower bars and standard seat/tail like I did on this CSR. The 81- models handle better IMO.

KZP's are cheap and after dialing in are quite the hoot.