1973 Kawasaki Z1

Description

Eager to gain a competitive edge over motorcycle market leaders Honda, Kawasaki would design and build the most powerful Japanese motorcycle to date. Powered by a 903 cc four-cylinder engine with dual overhead camshafts, the Z1 offered an impressive 15 horsepower increase over the Honda CB 750 and a top speed of 130 miles per hour making it the world's fastest production motorcycle as well. As the first motorcycle to surpass the top speed of the legendary Vincent Black Shadow in nearly two decades, it received heavy attention from the media and motorcycle enthusiasts who voted the Z1 as Motor Cycle News Bike of the Year from 1973-76. Capable of running the quarter mile in 12.5 seconds at 110 miles per hour, many racers also favored the Z1 due to their excellent reliability and incredibly smooth power delivery.

Highlights

• Single family ownership from new

• Offered for sale from a long-term owner who purchased this example in 1976

• At the time of introduction, the most powerful Japanese motorcycle and the world’s fastest production motorcycle with a top speed of 130 miles per hour

• Finished in a striking, factory-correct Orange and Black exterior 

• Upgraded with Four to One Kerker pipes 

• The consignor reports re-chroming the fork tube and headlight stay in the early 2000s  

• Powered by a 903 cc four cylinder air-cooled four stroke engine with DOHC

• Please note that while the odometer currently displays 42,211 miles, the true mileage of this motorcycle is unknown

Features

• Five-speed transmission 

• Hydraulic front disc brakes

• Telescopic fork front suspension 

• Adjustable shock rear suspension

• Illuminated gauge cluster 

• 4.7 gallon fuel tank 

• Turn signals 

• Headlight 

Known Imperfections

• Please note that the exterior displays some flaws and blemishes consistent with the age and mileage of this example 

• A small dent pictured on the side of the fuel tank 

Included

• Original exhaust pipe

• Original seat 

Ownership History

Purchased new by the consignor's older brother in late 1972, this Kawasaki was later purchased by the consignor in 1976 and has since been enjoyed and periodically updated throughout their 47 years of ownership while still preserving a factory correct appearance.