Non kz engine swaps

With the progress on my dads kz I really got the itch to do my own kz project
Looking for a ground up custom build instead of any restoration or period correct parts fitments
So any other engine swaps happen on here?
These chassis seem beefy and open enough to accept anything that can have mounts welded in place
Just looking for some inspiration
Thinking of something with fuel injection and street able mid range power with modern suspension brakes and wheels/tired

Joe

I've seen pics of a 'busa engined ZRX.

What are similar frames to the 77 kz1000?

KZ frames are not known for their rigidity. Whatever transplant youre going to do,its probably a good idea to stiffen up the frame. Other than that,its a fantastic idea. I always wondered if I could stick a CBR engine into a 500/4 frame. I reckon the biggest problem,wih fitting a modern engine,would be the fuel tank/airbox as its different architecture to the old school bikes.
What about a Supercharged H2 Ninja engine????!!!

I think I'd be looking at something with similar power to the Zed motor but lighter, I don't know about in the US but in the UK you can get the early 90s GSX750 Katanas really cheap, you could use the engine and running gear from one of those, engine might look a bit small in the Zed frame.

Thanks for the comments
I would be using all original kz body work and probably pod filters
I really like the sound of the 09+ R1 engines
Just doing some research yet bit leaning towards an FI liter engine

What KZ is it?
Steve

Prolly a kz1000
Late 70s

Not quite the same bike but a buddy of mine tried stuffing a 900RR engine into a steel Zx600C frame. It fits ok but due to the downdraft carbs there is only about 1/2" from the frame's backbone to the carb mouths. No room for any sort of air filtration.

So that is one issue you'll have. The other is going to be room to mount a radiator in front on the engine without it hitting the forks, frame, or headers.

Not saying these issues can't be overcome but you're going to have many headaches along the way.

Later, Doug

No problem at all - other folks have done it. Two major success stories are shown below:

Modify KZ engine to use water-cooled Suzuki cylinders:


Install Yamaha engine on KZ650 frame:


Granted, each of these needs maybe an hour or so fine tuning, but other than that I'm sure their owners are proud of the finished products; clearly they are much better than the stock bikes would be. :laugh: Ed

Well I have access to machining equipment and fabrication equipment
I gotta find a clean frame first

Pic of the bike in question?
Steve