LOT 428

1979 Bimota 1,015cc KB1 Registration no. FNB 998T Frame no. KB1.00135 Engine no. KZT00-AE67211

Sold for £13,800 inc. premium

Lot 428

1979 Bimota 1,015cc KB1

The Autumn Stafford Sale – The Classic Motorcycle Mechanics Show|14 October 2023, 10:30 BST|Stafford, Staffordshire County Showground

1979 Bimota 1,015cc KB1
Registration no. FNB 998T
Frame no. KB1.00135
Engine no. KZT00-AE67211

In the 1970s and 1980s, Japan's motorcycle frame design lagged behind that of its engines, meaning that anyone wishing to exploit a motor's full potential had little option but to purchase a bespoke chassis. A number of specialist firms sprang up to satisfy this demand, at the very pinnacle of which was – and still is – the Italian firm of Bimota. The first Bimota HB1 of 1973 housed a 750cc Honda engine in a tubular steel frame, and within a few years the range had expanded to accommodate engines from all the major Japanese manufacturers. The machine offered here is an example of Bimota's first design made to house the big Kawasaki air-cooled four – the KB1 – which was produced from 1977 to 1982. Like most Bimotas of this period, the KB1 used a tubular steel spaceframe and was one of the first machines to feature adjustability of the steering head angle.

One of 827 made, this KB1 was purchased in Germany in February 2002 and its Z1000 A2 engine rebuilt later that year. The vendor has used the machine on many Bimota Owners Club trips over the years, covering 4,619 kilometres since the engine rebuild (the total mileage is not known as a previous owner had changed the instruments). Last run earlier this year, the machine comes with a V5C document and a list of services/MoT tests.
Offered with key

Footnotes

All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding.

Saleroom notices

The engine number is KZT00-AE067211.

Additional information

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