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what's the story on these rides? there's one for sale, semi-locally, cheap. not really looking to replace my cb550/650 at the moment, but maybe in the fall. the kz sorta reminds me of my old 1983 kz750 l3. any harsh/kind words or memories about these kz1000 st models?

They are a good bike. They only made them in 79 and 80. The motors are the best Kawi ever made but they are a shaft.

Let me add to donthekawguy's comments, the 79/80 sported the improved motor and the typical overengineered drivetrain. However, the bikes are quirky in the sense that many of the parts are unique to the E model (= ST = shaft), so you have to be picky when shopping for parts...the upside of that being parts are readily available on the internet (eBay, Z1Enterprises, etc.) IF you do your homework.

Yea, that's the worst thing about the ST. Everything looks similar to the other KZ1000 line but very little is. All the way from the tip of the front wheel to the tip of the rear everything is heavier built on the ST model than any other KZ. Be leary of any parts supplier that lists any parts as interchangable between the ST and any other motorcycle because the parts won't be right. The engine is basically the same as the 1979-80 KZ1000 chain drive model, but that's it. All different instruments, seat, fenders, bodywork. Airbox setup not even close to the same. Different carbs. All is different on the ST and a lot NLA through Kawasaki. Aftermarket isn't going to work because trust me they aren't going to build parts for this unique model, they'le sluff off the "exact replacement for KZ250-KZ1300" crap that won't fit unless you don't mind 4" too long cables ect.