Thinking at a KZ project...

Now that I'm retired, I have more free time and I'm thinking at, among other bikes, one (or more) KZ projects. I am wondering if parts are easy to find or not.

1- First I would like to get is a 1984 KZ1100R. Kind of a 1982 GPZ1100 but with carbs and different paint. Because it was not available in the US, I'm posting a picture at the bottom of my post. I found one (that I've not seen yet) but that have not been started since about 10 years. Any problem that could make this a "Don't touch this" project? About $3500 CDN.

2- 1978 Z1R. Not seen it yet. Said to be in very good condition. Turn signals probably missing. Point & condensers are worrying me as all my bikes always had electronic ignition (even my 1974 H1E). About $5000 CDN.

3- 1978 KZ650. Not seen yet. Probably not in good condition and had not run since 1992... Asking price is $350 CDN.

4- 1982 GPZ1100. Not seen yet but said to be 100% stock, in showroom condition, exposition winner. EFI is really bothering me as most guys by then where installing carbs instead. Too similar to KZ1100R so probably wont buy it. Asking price ~$4000 CDN.

The 1978 Z1R came with from the factory with points ignition. The Kz1000 didn't move to electronic ignition until 79 or 80.
I know 80 had it, and I'm guessing they switched with the introduction of the mk2 engine in 79.

Points and condensers are very easy to deal with. Replace them about every 8,000-10,000 miles. You need a feeler gauge and timing light. In addition you can use a dwell meter to check your work, but it is not really a necessity. I've owned my 1977 KZ650-C1 since it was new, and dealing with the points has never been a big deal. Ed

Claude wrote: Point & condensers are worrying me as all my bikes always had electronic ignition

I see. I misunderstood. If you'd like to avoid points, you can replace them with a Dyna S electronic setup for a bit over $100. It is self contained (it replaces the points plate and is all contained within the timing cover) and is very reliable and set-and-forget. It retains the mechanical advancer and works with the stock coils.