TOPIC:

Has anyone here installed the 440's drive belt on a "B" model? The bike I really want is the KZ440C model but that was only sold in Europe? I hate the seat and handlebars on the "A" and "D" models and it looks like it might be easier to install the mag wheels, disc brake and belt drive onto the "B" frame rather than do any welding as might be required to put the "B" seat on the "A" and "D" frame?

Handlebars are easy to swap.

You can modify the foam on the LTD seat pan and either make a cover or take it to an upholstery shop for a more professional job. I took a 440 LTD seat and used a bread knife and a coping saw to trim the foam into a flat (i.e. non-stepped) seat. This preserves the functionality of the original seat pan, lock, and hinges but reduces the amount of padding for the passenger.

Make those changes - and swap the fuel tank - and you'll have something close to a belt-drive standard model without cutting and welding.

Having said that, keep in mind that belts are largely unavailable these days and the available gearing changes would be extremely limited.

440A and D models: I like the mag wheels, front disc brake, mufflers and the grab bar. I primarily like the belt drive but if it's impossible to get a replacement belt I had better start loving 'X" chains.
440B model: I like the fenders, gas tank, seat and handlebars.
Aren't the "B" gas tanks about 1 or 2 litres larger? Is there a difference in rake and trail between the "A"/"D" models and the "B" model?
I spent considerable time researching these questions without any luck. My first and only new motorcycle was a 1980 KZ440A1 and when I bought the bike I also bought the Kawasaki service manual which I gave away after moving to the Yamaha XS650.
(I'd still like to know out of intense curiosity whether anyone has mounted the 440 belt drive on a "B" model???)

"Nerdy" Norton guy ... have you ever seen the movie, "One Week" ?

It is easy enough to convert a belt drive bike to chain drive, so I reckon the reverse would also be true. The challenge would be finding the parts. There is a recent thread here about a HD belt that is supposed to work, so finding good pulleys and a nice belt guard are likely going to be the big challenge.

There is a 440 service manual here (bottom of the list) that may have some answers for you.

www.kzrider.com/service-manuals