Property of a deceased's estate, 1978 Kawasaki 1,016cc Z1-R II

The first major revision of Kawasaki's trendsetting Z1/Z900 arrived in 1977 in the form of the Z1000, which, as its name suggests, was a bored-out version of the original double-overhead-cam four. Power went up - marginally - to 83bhp, while there was more torque delivered further down the rev range than before. Testing the new Z1000 in February 1977, Bike magazine had to contend with a wet track but nevertheless recorded a 12.76-second standing quarter-mile time, despite an enforced half-throttle take-off, and a staggering terminal velocity of 117mph with rider normally seated! A much-revised frame meant that the Z1000 had lost some of its predecessors' wayward handling while remaining every bit as refined. Introduced soon afterwards and intended to appeal to European tastes, the more expensive Z1-R version featured a partially black-finished engine, cockpit fairing, lower 'bars, and a coffin-shaped fuel tank, while the more obvious mechanical changes amounted to a 4-into-1 exhaust, cast wheels, drilled brake discs, and callipers mounted behind the fork legs. The chassis was mildly revised (again) and power went up to 90bhp, which was good enough for a top speed of 133mph. New for 1979-1980, the Z1-R MkII was distinguished by its black finish with gold pin-striping (dark red in some markets); a 4-into-2 exhaust; and a further uprated engine producing 93bhp.

Currently displaying a total of 62,448 kilometres (38,805 miles) on the odometer, this Z1-R II comes with a V5C Registration Certificate stating that it was 'registered and/or used'. The Kawasaki was first registered in the UK in April 2000 and has belonged to the late owner since importation. It should be noted that the handlebar grips, headlight and fairing are loosely attached, and that the speedometer cable appears to be disconnected. The machine does not start or run and thus we have been unable to put it through its gears; recommissioning and/or restoration to a greater or lesser extent will be required before further use and thus this motorcycle is sold strictly as viewed. Prospective bidders must satisfy themselves as to the condition, completeness, authenticity and compatibility of this lot's component parts, prior to bidding.

Additional documents include an old V5; an HPI report; a quantity of expired tax discs; a selection of MoT certificates spanning the 2000s to 2019; a substantial quantity of invoices; and a quantity of SORN confirmations. The machine is offered with a detached pillion grab rail and a Kawasaki tool kit.
Offered with key