Kawasaki KZ
The Kawasaki KZ line wasn't just a response to the Honda CB750; its legendary Z1 and subsequent 900/1000cc models established a new era of superbike dominance. These powerful four-cylinder bikes earned the nickname "King of the Road" and remain highly sought-after by collectors.
Kawasaki KZ sold for a median of $8,580 over the last 12 months, based on 10 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $5,887 and $9,295. 14 currently for sale.
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Kawasaki KZ prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1976 | $8k | $5.9k–$10k | 11 | 2 |
| 1977 | $5k | $4.4k–$6k | 14 | 0 |
| 1978 | $6.9k | $6.3k–$9k | 7 | 3 |
| 1979 | $3.4k | $2.5k–$5k | 7 | 0 |
| 1980 | $2.3k | $1.9k–$5.5k | 8 | 2 |
| 1981 | $3.7k | $1.8k–$5.6k | 7 | 0 |
| 1982 | $6.2k | $3.6k–$7.5k | 6 | 2 |
| 1983 | $8.8k | $5.9k–$9k | 7 | 0 |
| 1984 | $7.1k | – | 1 | 0 |
| 1985 | $6.8k | – | 2 | 0 |
| 1997 | – | – | 0 | 3 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
The Kawasaki KZ line, starting with the legendary 1972 Z1 (later KZ900), established Kawasaki's dominance in the superbike category. It was a direct response to the Honda CB750, but offered more displacement and power, earning it the nickname "King of the Road." Over its production run, the KZ family grew to include various displacements, from the middleweight KZ400 twin to the iconic 6-cylinder KZ1300, but the 4-cylinder 900 and 1000cc models remain the most famous.
Collectors are drawn to the KZ for its historical impact and raw performance. The early Z1 is the most sought-after, representing a pivotal moment in motorcycling history. The KZ1000's use in the TV show *CHiPs* and its success in racing further cemented its legendary status. These bikes defined an era of performance that was accessible to the public, and their classic UJM (Universal Japanese Motorcycle) styling is timeless.
Buying Tips
- Listen for a rattling cam chain on startup, as worn tensioners and guides are a known weak point.
- Check for oil leaks, particularly from the cylinder head gasket and the tachometer drive seal on the right side of the engine.
- Inspect the frame for cracks near the steering head and rust in the lower rails. Many frames were modified for drag racing or had their rear sections cut.
- Verify the electrical system's health. Original wiring is old and can be brittle, and charging system components like the rectifier/regulator are common failure points.
- Originality is key to value. Finding a KZ with its factory 4-into-4 or 4-into-2 exhaust system is rare and adds significant cost, as most were replaced with aftermarket pipes.
165 Kawasaki KZ vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 14 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Kawasaki KZ cost?
Over the last 12 months, Kawasaki KZ sold for a median of $8,580 across 10 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $5,887 and $9,295. There are 14 currently for sale.
How many Kawasaki KZ listings are for sale right now?
There are 14 Kawasaki KZ listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.