1973 Kawasaki Z1 Restoration

[bofud]

A little progress in the last couple days. Got a long way to go yet. Lookin good for spring though . Carbs to rebuild , new tires ,may do something with the rims yet-dunno . Had to try the new pipes tonight - just like Christmas . These old bikes just get under your skin. But i'm goin to bed with a BIG smile.
 That friggin engine was heavy -no way thats a 2 man job!
 Bofud

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[madmac74]

 WOW, i looks better than new. Excellent job. Has finding all the parts been hard? . After doing a mild resto to my 650 C2, it seems like there was more out there for the Z1.  Love to take in the show at the wack next year!!

MAC

[bofud]

Hey MAC
  In spite of this intense resto ,of all my restos , the parts for this one were the easiest to get. There is not one part that is not available . If not used then a repro. That being said ,this is my most satisfying project yet.
 We have all seen one either in person or photos (many photos out there ) but having it here and polishing it up, sitting on it, lookin at it,  feels great.
 The pics don't do it justice .
 Into the carbs the last few days -then a little wire hidin -soon to be ready to spark up.
 Bofud

[Dennis]

I've enjoyed watching your restoration.  I am sure that everybody in this hobby recalls a certain bike or two that was particularly influential on them.  For me, it was a Z1 just like yours.   My junior highschool janitor had one and rode it to work on nice days.  I can rememer spending lunch hours looking over his bike and chatting him up.  In 1973, that bike was HUGE, and such a strong statement that Kawasaki was all about power. 

It is also interesting how in the decade following, its design pretty much became the UJM (Universal Japanese Motorcycle).

Peace & Grease, Dennis

[bofud]

Well here she is ,first time in natural light. Still a few minor details to do but pretty well done . A satisfying restoration!!
  If it's a nice day tomorrow ,take here down by the lake for some nice photos.
      Bofud

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[Hans]

Well done Boris!

[british bulldog]

Bofud, It is absolutely fabulous!! We are going to have to KNIGHT you on this one as well as the other bikes you have done.  It is nice to see them shine with their original glory and on the road again. I am looking forward to seeing you this summer, going for a ride if you can keep to my old beezer, shop talk and eh nice cold beer like we did last year friend.

                                                         British Bulldog

[fast1]

   Very well done! Noticed a distinct lack of snow. When do you usually start riding?? CHEERS.

[Dennis]

Beautiful.  Clean.

Peace & (lack of) Grease.

[madmac74]

 O wow, that Z is beautiful!!!.  The paint job matches our Tuesday night ride night venue, (A&W).  now that would be a cool picture!!  well done  Bofud !!
MAC

[kaziff]

Not a Kawi guy but that is gorgeous, nice job Bofud! hey guys look...no snow!!!Kaziff