Kawasaki Z1 & Z1-R
Introduced in 1972 to challenge Honda, the Kawasaki Z1's powerful 903cc DOHC inline-four earned it the 'King of the Road' title and set a new performance benchmark. The later Z1-R is notable for its factory cafe racer styling and a larger 1015cc engine.
Find one with Spotter →Kawasaki Z1 & Z1-R sold for a median of $12,750 over the last 12 months, based on 11 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $10,896 and $14,375. 2 currently for sale.
Released in 1972 as a 1973 model, the Kawasaki Z1 900 was a direct shot at the Honda CB750. Its 903cc DOHC inline-4 engine produced 82 hp, making it the most powerful Japanese motorcycle of its time and earning it the 'King of the Road' nickname. The Z1 set a new performance benchmark and established Kawasaki's identity as a builder of fast, aggressive bikes. Early models are prized for their purity, while the later Z1-R (1978-1980) offered factory cafe racer styling and a larger 1015cc engine.
The Z1's significance as a performance icon makes it a cornerstone for any serious collection of Japanese motorcycles. Originality commands the highest prices, especially for 1973 models with their correct paint and 4-into-4 exhausts. The market is mature, with an average sale price over $15,000 reflecting strong demand for quality examples. While project bikes can still be found for less than $5,000, top-tier restored bikes and rare variants like the Z1-R push prices past $30,000.
Buying Tips
- Verify matching frame and engine numbers. Early 1973 Z1s should have numbers that are very close to each other.
- Check for the original 4-into-4 exhaust system. Many were replaced with aftermarket 4-into-1 pipes, and finding an original set is expensive.
- On Z1-R models, inspect the unique cockpit fairing for cracks or damage. These are difficult to find and costly to replace.
- Look for rust inside the fuel tank and on the frame's lower tubes. Also, listen for cam chain noise, as the original tensioner design was a known weak point.
Prices range from $3,600 for projects to $30,500 for pristine, low-mileage examples.
74 Kawasaki Z1 & Z1-R vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 2 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Kawasaki Z1 & Z1-R cost?
Over the last 12 months, Kawasaki Z1 & Z1-R sold for a median of $12,750 across 11 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $10,896 and $14,375. There are 2 currently for sale.
How many Kawasaki Z1 & Z1-R listings are for sale right now?
There are 2 Kawasaki Z1 & Z1-R listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.