The Z1 900 was Kawasaki’s first attempt at joining the world of powerful, smooth, inline four-cylinder superbikes. It was an absolute gem of a motorcycle. This one offered on eBay in 2023 was a great chance to throw a leg over a legend.
From Two-Stroke Triple to King of Fours
At the Z1’s launch, Kawasaki General Manager T. Yamada was asked about the switch to four strokes. He replied:
Kawasaki wanted to build the ‘King Motorcycle,’ a bike beside which the finest motorcycles in the world would shrivel, a bike that would leave a hot and smoking scar across the face of the sport. And you just can’t do that with a two-stroke.
There’s nothing like naked ambition, but remember that Kawasaki had been known as two-stroke merchants with smoky, lightweight, wild machines like the H1 - opens in new window or tab.. So, the Z1 900 was a giant step forward for Kawasaki.
Massive Displacement
Four-cylinder motorcycles with double overhead camshaft engines weren’t new then, but putting it together in a 900 cc package was a neat trick in 1972. At 85 horsepower, the Kawasaki Z1 was a full 18 horsepower stronger than the popular Honda CB750 four. Also, the engine's design was enlarged to enable the next generation of machines.
Contemporary road testers heaped praise on the Z. Cycle - opens in new window or tab. magazine - opens in new window or tab.reported:
The Z1 is the most modern motorcycle in the world. It is also the fastest. The first of a new generation of bikes capable of nattering down quiet country roads one minute and rotating the Earth with incomprehensible acceleration the next.
Meanwhile, across the pond, the scribes at Motor Cycle News - opens in new window or tab. voted the Z1 as its machine of the year for four years running.
Racers went to work establishing the Z’s legacy at drag-racing tracks. The Z1 was crowned the king of performance, a title it held for the better part of a decade.
Only Two Owners
A Z1 900 is extraordinary, and the recently serviced example sold on eBay is listed in very good condition. With just two recorded keepers and still wearing its original paint and chrome, its cosmetic condition reflected the seller’s claim that it’s been stored “for approximately 30 years.”
We can’t see anything that needs extensive cosmetic attention. The more we look, the better it gets. The original tool kit - opens in new window or tab. is included in the sale. It’s tucked in the frame. The new owner received an accompanying owner’s manual and warranty book. Green flags, all.
In terms of its greasy bits, it benefited from light renovation:
- Fresh air filter and battery
- Professionally sealed fuel tank
- Petcock and carburetors cleaned
- A recent tune-up
The only thing you should address is a pair of new tires. eBay can help with that - opens in new window or tab..
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.