1975 Kawasaki Z1 900 for sale

The 1975 Kawasaki Z1B-900, Candy Super Red and Gold, Original Paint, Unrestored, 17,107 Original Miles, 2 Owners From New, Frame Z1F-70096, Engine Z1E-070147, Manufacture Date: 1/75

Often described as the first true “Superbike”, the Kawasaki Z1 is one of the most iconic Classic Japanese Motorcycles of all time. The Kawasaki Z1 is a four-cylinder, air-cooled, double-overhead camshaft, carbureted, chain-drive motorcycle introduced in 1972 by Kawasaki. Following the introduction of Honda's CB750 in 1968, the Z1 helped popularize the in-line, across-the-frame four-cylinder, a format that became known as the Universal Japanese Motorcycle or UJM. The Z1 was noted for being the first large-capacity Japanese four-cylinder motorcycle to use the double-overhead-camshaft system on a production motorcycle. When it was introduced, only the MV Agusta 750 S used this system; it was a very expensive limited-production machine, as opposed to the Kawasaki which was less than half the price. Marketed variously as the Z1-900, 900 Z1 or 900 S4 ("Super Four"), the Z1 was the first of Kawasaki's Z models. The Kawasaki Z1 was developed under the project name "New York Steak". In the late 1960s Kawasaki, already an established manufacturer of two-stroke motorcycles, had begun prototyping a 750 cc four-cylinder four-stroke sports motorcycle working with McFarlane Design in 1969 to develop the bike's overall appearance. When Honda introduced the CB750 to the market first, Kawasaki postponed the Z1's release until its displacement could be increased to 903 cc and the motorcycle could be marketed in the 1000cc-class. Z1 production began in 1972 as the most powerful Japanese 4-cylinder 4-stroke ever marketed.

I discovered this motorcycle in an Illinois garage about 5 years ago. At that time, it was a one owner machine and had been parked with a just under 17,000 original miles. The machine was completely taken apart down to the frame, which was inspected very closely for any type of cracks, especially where these frames are prone to crack, around the steering head brace, or gusset. There are no cracks anywhere on the frame. The top end was completely re-built to its original specifications, and the bottom end was inspected and re-assembled.
The bike was cleaned, detailed, and re-assembled with every finish left intact and original. No painted, chromed, or polished part of the machine was altered or restored. None of the engine finishes were restored, just cleaned and preserved. The same can be said for the frame, which was cleaned and polished to preserve its authenticity. The wheels are the Japanese rims original to the machine, as are the carburetors, swingarm, etc., all of which have the proper date codes. Any part of the motorcycle that could be preserved was preserved, and whatever parts needed to be replaced were replaced by either N.O.S. or exact factory reproductions of the original parts, such as an original style reproduction seat and exhaust from Z1 Enterprises and handlebar grips. The new tires currently installed are the correct style and size Dunlop Gold Seal tires. Every other part of the machine is original and the way it was delivered from the factory.
The cosmetic condition of this machine is just as it looks in the photos. Almost every finish on the machine is original. As far as I can tell, no part of the bike has been painted or re-finished except those noted above. The running condition of the machine is flawless, starting immediately. This bike has been part of my collection and is ridden on a regular basis. It's basically a well-maintained and well cared for bike that runs and rides with absolutely no issues. Leave it the way it is (preferred) or continue to restore it eventually after having some fun with it. I just happen to like unrestored bikes. The paint on the tank, side covers and rear fender are original, and have never had any type of paintwork or touchup. The paint and on the frame and associated parts is also original, and aside from some minor age freckling, is in very nice condition.
The bike has never been in any type of accident or been dropped at any time. The seat is also in original condition and is very nice. The fenders are also original to the machine. And again, the exhaust is new and was sourced from Z1 Enterprises, since the original was not present when I discovered the bike. The Z1 runs and rides the way you expect a machine with this type of mileage to run. All of the mechanical components have been checked over to ensure they work properly including the clutch and brakes. The fuel system was completely gone through this season and functions perfectly. The charging system also works perfectly. There is absolutely nothing you will have to do to this motorcycle to ride and enjoy it this upcoming season.

PLEASE NOTE: I am the second owner of this machine, and it will be sold with the documents provided in the previous owner's name. You should have no issues titling it in your home state, if you desire. The registration documents are, to me, a part of the bike's history and too valuable to give up just to get a license plate on the motorcycle. If you would like a different title situation, please let me know after you purchase the motorcycle, and I'll be happy to oblige. Please don't forget to take a look at all of the photos in the ad!

TERMS: The description of this vehicle is written to the best of my knowledge. However, I am by no means an expert on vintage Kawasaki motorcycles. This motorcycle is being sold as is, where is with no warranty, expressed, written or implied. Please don't hesitate to ask for more photos and, if possible, come and look in person. ALL SALES ARE FINAL! If you have any questions, please contact me. If you live close to Chicago, I encourage you to come and inspect the motorcycle in person. Thanks for your interest!

1975 Kawasaki Z1900 Specifications:
Engine Type: Air cooled in line four cylinder four stroke
Valve Operation: Two valves per cylinder operated by chain driven double overhead camshafts
Cubic Capacity: 903cc
Bore x Stroke: 66mm x 66mm
Compression Ratio: 8.5:1
Lubrication System: Wet sump with gear driven oil pump
Fuel System: 4 x 28mm Mikuni VM28 SC carburetors
Air Filtration: Paper element filter
Exhaust System: Four into Four
Ignition System: Battery, points and two coils
Spark Plugs: NGK B8ES
Starting System: Mitsuba electric starter motor and kick starter
Primary Drive: Straight cut gears
Clutch: Wet multi plate
Transmission: 5 speed constant mesh
Final Drive: Enuma EK 630S-TG heavy duty endless chain with automatic oiler system
Claimed Power Output: 82 bhp @ 8,500rpm
Claimed Torque: 54.2 ft lbs @ 7,000rpm
Frame Type: Tubular double cradle
Front Suspension: Oil damped telescopic forks
Rear Suspension: Swing arm with two coil over oil damped shock absorbers
Front Wheel: 19 inch Takasago chromed rim with 40 zinc spokes
Front Tire: 3.25H x 19 4PR Dunlop Gold Seal
Rear Wheel: 18 inch Takasago chromed rim with 40 zinc spokes
Rear Tire: 4.00H x 18 4PR Dunlop K87 MkII
Front Brake: Hydraulically operated single 296mm disc with twin disc option
Rear Brake: Rod operated 200mm single leading shoe drum brake