New owner of a 1980 KZ1000 Z1 (with questions)

Hi Folks-

First, I just wanted to say how cool of a forum this is. I've thoroughly enjoyed reading through many posts. Not only is the documentation I've found extremely helpful, the members are awesome. Very cool.

I have a request for some information re: a build I'm about to start. Before asking, I did search through and read the many archived posts surrounding these questions and found it very helpful. Given that many were quite old and most about model years different than mine, I was hoping to start a new thread requesting information more specific to my model year. I apologize if I missed any past post speaking to this particular model.

I've recently secured a close friend's pride and joy and he had passed. Although hesitant in assuming ownership of something so close, I decided I'd only do it by promising myself to build the best café racer bike that I could build.

The bike is a 1980 Kawasaki KZ1000 Z1. Although it only has 6k miles (and was stored inside), it sat for over 30 years. Besides a great deal of rust (everywhere including inside the tank, etc.) to deal with, I want to change-up the suspension. I know, I know. Possibly the most common questions/inquiries on the forum.

I was hoping to see if anyone could help me with any insight before I start securing parts for the following:
- The best swingarm swap for this model, possibly the best dual shock and single shock options. No doubt, any will require mods. But I was hoping to hear alternatives (of each, double and single shock) that worked the best, yet required the least mods. Again, for a 1980 Kawasaki KZ1000 Z1.
- The best front-end swap. I'd like to get some more refined technology in shocks, brakes, etc. Can anyone provide an alternative that worked the best, yet required the least mods. Again, for a 1980 Kawasaki KZ1000 Z1.
- Although the motor is most likely good, I'd like to pull it and send it to someone to clean everything, pull it apart, and possibly build it a little. I'd like the motor to be as clean as possible, given my plans to show this bike to his family and friends when done. Does anyone know of any KZ gurus who have a good reputation with KZ motors and building a dependable, yet powerful one? I'm located in the Northeast (U.S.), so closer the better. But I'm not adverse to shipping it to someone very good.

Again, I truly appreciate all of you for taking the time to read this and provide any insight to a new KZ owner.

Thanks in advance!

Can you post some pics.?
Pete

All I can say is it's a KZ 1000 not a Z1. The last Z1 was made in 75. The 1000's had heavier cranks and smaller carbs. There were lots of changes over the model years, some small, some major. Pics of the bike is always welcome and makes for better responses. Most of the work you can do yourself. The head and barrels can be sent to vendors recommended here. I suggest the maintenance be done at home not only to save money but to know the workings of the bike itself. As I like to say, there's a certain satisfaction in knowing what's between your legs. :lol:
Steve

Pictures or even the VIN would help identify exactly what bike you have. As Steve said, technically Z1's were only made 72-75. However there was a 79 KZ1000 Z1 Classic and 78-80 KZ-1000D# commonly referred to as Z1-R's. While the names may sound close, a Z1 Classic and a Z1-R are worlds apart. The Classic is a fuel injected Cruiser style, while the Z1-R is a carbureted cafe racer. Any recommendations for improvements would be equally different.

What part of the country are you in?

Welcome as well. I hope to move up to a 900 or 1000 one of these days. I currently have a 750. As others have said, pics would help.

As far as frame and fairing mods go, call me an old codger but I like "stock" bikes especially when they are older and harder to come by. Once someone creates a "cafe racer" specific to their own desires, seems they eventually get tired of the set-up, and put it up for sale and no one wants it because it is modded to only one persons specific likes.

Engines OTOH, I like seeing modded. Such as big bore kits and hard to come by upgrades of NOS or aftermarket, era-specific parts.

In the end, it is yours and you will do with it as you want.

Like MDZ1rider said if it is a 1980, you either have c Classic Z1 fuel injected or a Z1R,cafe racer, either way these bikes are hard to come by and would be great candidates for full restoration rather than modifications.

Hi Guys!
Thanks for the quick responses!
Here's a pic of the bike. It does say Z1 Classic. However, I'm told it's still considered a KZ1000. Unfortunately, I don't have a title yet, as I'm to get it this or next week once transferred, Sorry for the confusion. I know it is a 1980. Any insight as to what this is?
MDZ1Rider, I'm outside of Pittsburgh.

It's a Z1 Classic with EFI. & NO Carbs
Pete

Thanks Pete! I'm assuming it's still a 1000. But is it not considered a KZ? Appreciate the clarification, as it helps me talk at least a little more intelligently about it.

All-
Any insight into my original request for suggestions re: mods now that I know what I have?
Thanks in advance!

It is a 1980 KZ1000 Z1 Classic and the first EFI Kawasaki made. www.motorcyclespecs.co.za/model/kawasaki...asaki_z1-classic.htm .

Nice bike. Send the engine here. www.cavanaughracing.com/

I have the last z1classic ever made :evil: