Kawasaki Z1 900: A Legendary Classic
Production HistoryThe Kawasaki Z1 900 entered mass production in August 1972. Bikes produced during the first month are particularly notable for having matching frame and engine numbers. Between August and December 1972, Kawasaki built a total of 4,846 Z1s, with the remaining 15,000 Z1 motorcycles produced from January through July 1973.
Z1 production concluded in July 1973, making way for the 1974 Z1A model. The very first Z1 (Frame Z1F-00001, Engine Z1E-00001) was never sold and is now on display at the Kawasaki World Museum in Kobe, Japan. This historic bike was damaged during the 1995 earthquake and later restored.
Color and NicknamesIn the United States, the Z1 was sold exclusively in the Orange on Brown color scheme. This combination earned several nicknames worldwide, including:
A second color option, Yellow/Green, became available in European markets in March 1973.
Global Market and AdaptationsKawasaki designed the Z1 primarily for the U.S. market, which received the majority of all units produced. While the Z1 was sold worldwide, it was never offered in Japan; the Japanese market received the Z2, a cloned 750cc version of the 900.
To meet regional regulations, Kawasaki made specific adaptations for European models, including:
Specifications and PerformanceThe Kawasaki Z1 900 debuted with an MSRP of $1,895, representing over $30 million in total sales. By 1973, Kawasaki employed around 35,000 people worldwide.
The Z1 was groundbreaking for its era, featuring:
Frame and Engine NumbersKawasaki Z1 frame numbers range from Z1F-00001 to Z1F-20000, with engine numbers in the corresponding range of Z1E-00001 to Z1E-20000. Matching numbers are especially prized among collectors.
Production HistoryThe Kawasaki Z1 900 entered mass production in August 1972. Bikes produced during the first month are particularly notable for having matching frame and engine numbers. Between August and December 1972, Kawasaki built a total of 4,846 Z1s, with the remaining 15,000 Z1 motorcycles produced from January through July 1973.
Z1 production concluded in July 1973, making way for the 1974 Z1A model. The very first Z1 (Frame Z1F-00001, Engine Z1E-00001) was never sold and is now on display at the Kawasaki World Museum in Kobe, Japan. This historic bike was damaged during the 1995 earthquake and later restored.
Color and NicknamesIn the United States, the Z1 was sold exclusively in the Orange on Brown color scheme. This combination earned several nicknames worldwide, including:
- “Rootbeer & Orange”
- “Jaffa” in the UK, referencing Jaffa Cakes (chocolate-covered cakes filled with orange jam)
A second color option, Yellow/Green, became available in European markets in March 1973.
Global Market and AdaptationsKawasaki designed the Z1 primarily for the U.S. market, which received the majority of all units produced. While the Z1 was sold worldwide, it was never offered in Japan; the Japanese market received the Z2, a cloned 750cc version of the 900.
To meet regional regulations, Kawasaki made specific adaptations for European models, including:
- Seat strap
- Longer rear fender
- Kilometer-based speedometer
- Fixed foot pegs
Specifications and PerformanceThe Kawasaki Z1 900 debuted with an MSRP of $1,895, representing over $30 million in total sales. By 1973, Kawasaki employed around 35,000 people worldwide.
The Z1 was groundbreaking for its era, featuring:
- Engine: 903cc, 82 hp
- Top speed: Over 125 mph
- Quarter-mile: ~12 seconds
- Weight: 507 lbs dry / 540 lbs with oil & fuel
Frame and Engine NumbersKawasaki Z1 frame numbers range from Z1F-00001 to Z1F-20000, with engine numbers in the corresponding range of Z1E-00001 to Z1E-20000. Matching numbers are especially prized among collectors.
The Kawasaki Z1 900 entered mass production in August 1972. Z1s produced during the first month are notable for having matching frame and engine numbers. Kawasaki built a total of 4,846 Z1s between August and December of 1972, with the remaining approximately 15,000 motorcycles produced from January through July of 1973. Z1 model production concluded in July 1973, at which time production of the 1974 Z1A model began. The very first production Z1 (Frame Z1F-00001, Engine Z1E-00001) was never sold; it was retained by Kawasaki and is currently on display at the Kawasaki World Museum in Kobe, Japan. The motorcycle sustained damage during the 1995 earthquake and was later restored.
In the United States, the Kawasaki Z1 was sold exclusively in the Orange on Brown color scheme. This distinctive combination earned several nicknames worldwide, including “Rootbeer & Orange” and “Jaffa” in the UK, referencing Jaffa Cakes—chocolate-covered cakes filled with orange jam. In Europe, the Z1 was commonly referred to as the “ZED” or “ZED 1,” reflecting the regional pronunciation of the letter Z (“Zed” in the UK versus “Zee” in the USA). In Japan, the Orange and Brown color combination was known as “Fireball,” although Kawasaki officially listed the paint simply as Candytone Brown, with no mention of orange. European markets later received a second color option, Yellow/Green, introduced in March 1973.
Kawasaki designed and marketed the Z1 primarily for the U.S. market, which received the vast majority of all Z1s produced. Although the Z1 was sold in many countries worldwide, it was never offered for sale in Japan; instead, the Japanese market received the Z2, a 750cc version of the 900. To comply with varying international regulations, Kawasaki made specific adaptations to the Z1 for different regions. European-market models featured a seat strap, longer rear fender, kilometer-based speedometer, and fixed foot pegs. Reflectors were not required in certain European countries and, therefore, were not fitted.
The Kawasaki Z1 900 debuted with an initial MSRP of $1,895, representing more than $30 million in total Z1 sales. By 1973, Kawasaki employed approximately 35,000 people worldwide. The Z1’s specifications were groundbreaking for the era, featuring a 903cc engine producing 82 horsepower, a top speed exceeding 125 mph, and a quarter-mile time of approximately 12 seconds. The motorcycle weighed 507 pounds dry and approximately 540 pounds with oil and fuel.
Kawasaki Z1 frame numbers range from Z1F-00001 through Z1F-20000, while engine numbers fall within the corresponding range of Z1E-00001 to Z1E-20000.
1974 Z1A
Z1A Frame numbers: Z1F-20001 to Z1F-47499
Engine Numbers Z1E 20001 to Z1E 047499
The Second Z1 "Z1-A" Began production July 1973
2 Colors: Candytone Green w/ Yellow Stripes or Candytone Brown w/ Orange stripes.
Engine was no longer painted black, it was left bare aluminum.
The word KICK STARTER is embossed on engine
Red STOP LAMP indicator in tachometer was added, it would light when applying the brake.
The word 'IGNITION' was shown on the console.
Rear brake linings had a wear indicator.
Larger 180mm KAWASAKI badges on the tank, 140mm between the screws.
The first few months (July-October) of Z1A production had the same 65mm by 14mm size engine number plate as the Z1. It was lengthened in October 1973 to accommodate a larger number knowing they would eventually produce over 100,000 engines. The new size was 80mm by 14mm and had a raised lip around the border. Later Z1A production the number font changed.
1-N-2-3-4-5 gear change pattern was embossed on the chain case cover near the gear shifter.
The 1974 900 had a $1995 suggested retail price. (That equals over $54 Million in Z1A Sales)
1975 Z1-B
Z1B Frame Numbers Z1F-47500 to Z1F-85700
Engine Numbers Z1E 047500 to Z1E 085850
The third Z1 "Z1B" Began Production May 1974
2 colors: Candytone Super Red or Candytone Sky Blue. Both w/black, white & gold strips
The drive chain oil lubrication system was removed and replaced with a new O-Ring chain.
Speedometer displayed numbers in 10mph increments.
Petcock added the word FUEL and was no longer painted black.
Side cover emblems design was changed.
Carbs were redesigned for EPA regulations
The 1975 900 had a $2150 suggested retail price. (That equals over $82 million in Z1B sales)
In the United States, the Kawasaki Z1 was sold exclusively in the Orange on Brown color scheme. This distinctive combination earned several nicknames worldwide, including “Rootbeer & Orange” and “Jaffa” in the UK, referencing Jaffa Cakes—chocolate-covered cakes filled with orange jam. In Europe, the Z1 was commonly referred to as the “ZED” or “ZED 1,” reflecting the regional pronunciation of the letter Z (“Zed” in the UK versus “Zee” in the USA). In Japan, the Orange and Brown color combination was known as “Fireball,” although Kawasaki officially listed the paint simply as Candytone Brown, with no mention of orange. European markets later received a second color option, Yellow/Green, introduced in March 1973.
Kawasaki designed and marketed the Z1 primarily for the U.S. market, which received the vast majority of all Z1s produced. Although the Z1 was sold in many countries worldwide, it was never offered for sale in Japan; instead, the Japanese market received the Z2, a 750cc version of the 900. To comply with varying international regulations, Kawasaki made specific adaptations to the Z1 for different regions. European-market models featured a seat strap, longer rear fender, kilometer-based speedometer, and fixed foot pegs. Reflectors were not required in certain European countries and, therefore, were not fitted.
The Kawasaki Z1 900 debuted with an initial MSRP of $1,895, representing more than $30 million in total Z1 sales. By 1973, Kawasaki employed approximately 35,000 people worldwide. The Z1’s specifications were groundbreaking for the era, featuring a 903cc engine producing 82 horsepower, a top speed exceeding 125 mph, and a quarter-mile time of approximately 12 seconds. The motorcycle weighed 507 pounds dry and approximately 540 pounds with oil and fuel.
Kawasaki Z1 frame numbers range from Z1F-00001 through Z1F-20000, while engine numbers fall within the corresponding range of Z1E-00001 to Z1E-20000.
1974 Z1A
Z1A Frame numbers: Z1F-20001 to Z1F-47499
Engine Numbers Z1E 20001 to Z1E 047499
The Second Z1 "Z1-A" Began production July 1973
2 Colors: Candytone Green w/ Yellow Stripes or Candytone Brown w/ Orange stripes.
Engine was no longer painted black, it was left bare aluminum.
The word KICK STARTER is embossed on engine
Red STOP LAMP indicator in tachometer was added, it would light when applying the brake.
The word 'IGNITION' was shown on the console.
Rear brake linings had a wear indicator.
Larger 180mm KAWASAKI badges on the tank, 140mm between the screws.
The first few months (July-October) of Z1A production had the same 65mm by 14mm size engine number plate as the Z1. It was lengthened in October 1973 to accommodate a larger number knowing they would eventually produce over 100,000 engines. The new size was 80mm by 14mm and had a raised lip around the border. Later Z1A production the number font changed.
1-N-2-3-4-5 gear change pattern was embossed on the chain case cover near the gear shifter.
The 1974 900 had a $1995 suggested retail price. (That equals over $54 Million in Z1A Sales)
1975 Z1-B
Z1B Frame Numbers Z1F-47500 to Z1F-85700
Engine Numbers Z1E 047500 to Z1E 085850
The third Z1 "Z1B" Began Production May 1974
2 colors: Candytone Super Red or Candytone Sky Blue. Both w/black, white & gold strips
The drive chain oil lubrication system was removed and replaced with a new O-Ring chain.
Speedometer displayed numbers in 10mph increments.
Petcock added the word FUEL and was no longer painted black.
Side cover emblems design was changed.
Carbs were redesigned for EPA regulations
The 1975 900 had a $2150 suggested retail price. (That equals over $82 million in Z1B sales)
1976 KZ900 (MADE IN JAPAN)
Frame Numbers Z1F-85701 to Z1F-117060
Engine numbers Z1E 086001 to Z1E 138846
The Fourth Z1 was re-designed and named the KZ900 (Z900 for Europe)
KZ900-A4 ( K for Kawasaki, Z for the Z model line, 900 size, A standard, 4 4th year of production)
Mass production began August 1975 for the KZ900 (Production began October for the Z900)
Colors: Diamond Dark Green or Diamond Brown
The KZ900 was made in Japan and also USA's new assembly plant.
It was because of this, the KZ900 did not have close matching numbers like the Z1. There was no set pairing between specific engines and frames. As engines were assembled, some were loaded and sent to the US, while others were sent directly to the assembly lines in Japan. There was no specific frame/engine pairing sequence.
Just about everything was changed on the kz900
The frame was redesigned thicker from 18mm to 23mm and the frame neck was strengthened.
Locking gas cap was required for US regulations, tank has an outer seam visible on the bottom.
Carb linkage changed, Smaller 26mm Mikuni Carbs were used to pass new emission standards
Exhaust had different internals and dated 76 at the top seam
Instrument lights were moved to a cluster between the tach & speedo.
Front forks were redesigned and reflectors were moved to the frame.
Rear shocks were chrome without reflectors, the tail light was redesigned to incorporate reflectors.
Handlebars had a Hazard warning lights control knob.
Seat featured a lock and a new pattern in vinyl.
Side covers have slanted fronts to fit the new Airbox system.
Engines beginning in the 90000's Had OIL 3700CC cast on the engine case by the oil fill cap.
Tail section, tool kit holder and badges were also changed.
KZ was not used for any Kawasaki models sold in European countries. The "KZ" abbreviation was used for the German word Konzentrationslager (Nazi concentration and death camps that operated all over Europe less than 25 years earlier). The European continent never wanted to see "KZ" again. The bikes were badged with "Z" in Europe Z900, Z750, Z400 etc.
The KZ900 had a $2475 suggested retail price.
Frame Numbers Z1F-85701 to Z1F-117060
Engine numbers Z1E 086001 to Z1E 138846
The Fourth Z1 was re-designed and named the KZ900 (Z900 for Europe)
KZ900-A4 ( K for Kawasaki, Z for the Z model line, 900 size, A standard, 4 4th year of production)
Mass production began August 1975 for the KZ900 (Production began October for the Z900)
Colors: Diamond Dark Green or Diamond Brown
The KZ900 was made in Japan and also USA's new assembly plant.
It was because of this, the KZ900 did not have close matching numbers like the Z1. There was no set pairing between specific engines and frames. As engines were assembled, some were loaded and sent to the US, while others were sent directly to the assembly lines in Japan. There was no specific frame/engine pairing sequence.
Just about everything was changed on the kz900
The frame was redesigned thicker from 18mm to 23mm and the frame neck was strengthened.
Locking gas cap was required for US regulations, tank has an outer seam visible on the bottom.
Carb linkage changed, Smaller 26mm Mikuni Carbs were used to pass new emission standards
Exhaust had different internals and dated 76 at the top seam
Instrument lights were moved to a cluster between the tach & speedo.
Front forks were redesigned and reflectors were moved to the frame.
Rear shocks were chrome without reflectors, the tail light was redesigned to incorporate reflectors.
Handlebars had a Hazard warning lights control knob.
Seat featured a lock and a new pattern in vinyl.
Side covers have slanted fronts to fit the new Airbox system.
Engines beginning in the 90000's Had OIL 3700CC cast on the engine case by the oil fill cap.
Tail section, tool kit holder and badges were also changed.
KZ was not used for any Kawasaki models sold in European countries. The "KZ" abbreviation was used for the German word Konzentrationslager (Nazi concentration and death camps that operated all over Europe less than 25 years earlier). The European continent never wanted to see "KZ" again. The bikes were badged with "Z" in Europe Z900, Z750, Z400 etc.
The KZ900 had a $2475 suggested retail price.
1976 KZ900 (Made in USA)
1976 KZ900-A4 frame numbers Z1F-500001 to Z1F-510340
1977 KZ900-A5 Frame numbers Z1F-510341 to Z1F-515578
Engine Numbers Z1E 086001 to Z1E 138846
The 1977 KZ900A5 is the exact same, the production continued to deplete excess stock.
All Models (KZ900, KZ900 LTD & KZ900 Police) have the same (Z1E086001 to Z1E138846) engine range.
The U.S. made version of the KZ900 Started Production in August of 1975.
Frame identification tags have Made in USA and Frame numbers begin with the number 5
Since frames were in the 500,000 range and engines were a continuation of the Z1 Numbering system
Close matching numbers for the USA made KZ900 never was possible.
In October 1974 Kawasaki opened a new assembly plant in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Kawasaki became the first Japanese company to produce motorcycles in the USA.
Production began with the KZ400, First one rolling off the assembly line in January 1975. 9 months later came the KZ900.
All engines and most components were still made in Japan.
Parts were shipped to Kawasakis Factory in Lincoln, Nebraska for assembly with the U.S. made frames.
Engines were shipped assembled. When they arrived, whichever engine was available was sent to the assembly line.
1976 KZ900-A4 frame numbers Z1F-500001 to Z1F-510340
1977 KZ900-A5 Frame numbers Z1F-510341 to Z1F-515578
Engine Numbers Z1E 086001 to Z1E 138846
The 1977 KZ900A5 is the exact same, the production continued to deplete excess stock.
All Models (KZ900, KZ900 LTD & KZ900 Police) have the same (Z1E086001 to Z1E138846) engine range.
The U.S. made version of the KZ900 Started Production in August of 1975.
Frame identification tags have Made in USA and Frame numbers begin with the number 5
Since frames were in the 500,000 range and engines were a continuation of the Z1 Numbering system
Close matching numbers for the USA made KZ900 never was possible.
In October 1974 Kawasaki opened a new assembly plant in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Kawasaki became the first Japanese company to produce motorcycles in the USA.
Production began with the KZ400, First one rolling off the assembly line in January 1975. 9 months later came the KZ900.
All engines and most components were still made in Japan.
Parts were shipped to Kawasakis Factory in Lincoln, Nebraska for assembly with the U.S. made frames.
Engines were shipped assembled. When they arrived, whichever engine was available was sent to the assembly line.
1976 KZ900 LTD (Made only in USA)
KZ900-B1
Frame KZ900B-500001 to KZ900B-505514
Engine Numbers Z1E-086001 to Z1E-138846
LTD frame numbers Began KZ900B, engines still began Z1E and were the same as all KZ900A
Engines were randomly pulled out of the stock shipped from Japan.
Made only in one color: Candy Luminous Red
The KZ900 LTD was exclusively for the US
LTD stood for LIMITED. 5,514 were produced
The KZ900 LTD used a different designed frame and did not to use the Z1F Designation
16" Rear Mag rim with a Fat tire
Japan's first custom Cruiser (it was made in the USA).
KZ900-B1
Frame KZ900B-500001 to KZ900B-505514
Engine Numbers Z1E-086001 to Z1E-138846
LTD frame numbers Began KZ900B, engines still began Z1E and were the same as all KZ900A
Engines were randomly pulled out of the stock shipped from Japan.
Made only in one color: Candy Luminous Red
The KZ900 LTD was exclusively for the US
LTD stood for LIMITED. 5,514 were produced
The KZ900 LTD used a different designed frame and did not to use the Z1F Designation
16" Rear Mag rim with a Fat tire
Japan's first custom Cruiser (it was made in the USA).
1976 KZ900 Police Special
1976 KZ900-C1 & 1977 KZ900-C2
First Frame Number: KZ900C-500001
Engine Numbers Z1E-086001 to Z1E-138846
Police frame numbers Began KZ900C, engines still began Z1E and were the same as all KZ900A
Engines were randomly pulled out of the stock shipped from Japan.
The first episode of C.H.I.P.S. was broadcast on NBC in September 1977.
Ponch and Jon (Erik Estrada & Larry Wilcox) rode the KZ900-C1.
Later in the TV series they rode the KZ1000. In one episode Ponch had a chance to win a brand new 1978 Z1R on Name Your Price, a parody of The Price is Right. Ponch's guess $3697 was $2 over the correct price & lost to a little old lady.
Kawasaki also made a Z1 that was special for police use in 1974 & 1975. Frame numbers start Z1P instead of Z1F.
Prototypes, V1's, Press Bikes:
The origins of the Kawasaki Z1 trace back to the spring of 1967, when the project, initially known as N600, was conceived as a 750cc, 4-stroke, 4-cylinder. However, in October 1968, the project was put on hold following Honda’s announcement at the Tokyo Motor Show that it would be launching the CB750, a new 750cc, 4-stroke, 4-cylinder model, in the coming year.
In response, Kawasaki refocused its efforts on surpassing Honda's offering by developing a 900cc motorcycle that would outshine all competition, under the code name "New York Steak". By December 1969, the new Project T103 received approval. Its objective was that it would be number 1 in the world in both style and performance. The design emphasized lightweight construction and an engine that could be serviced without removal from the frame, a huge advantage over Honda's CB750.
The styling of the T103 was handled by Ken Tada in Santa Ana, California. The first full-scale mock-up was crafted from wood, providing a life size representation of the bike's design. By spring 1971, the first prototype of the T103 was completed and ready for testing. By the summer of 1971, three additional prototypes had been produced and now given the designation V1. As testing continued, several prototype V1's were made, with constant improvements.
Given that the U.S. was by far the largest target market, it was essential for Kawasaki’s designers to assess how the Z1 would perform across the American landscape. In December 1971, two V1 prototypes and a third unassembled in parts, were produced and then shipped to the U.S. for coast-to-coast testing. These bikes arrived in California January 1972, where they underwent a rigorous round-trip test ride from Los Angeles to Daytona Beach. To maintain secrecy, the V1 prototypes were badged and disguised as Honda's. A van carrying the third parts bike accompanied the riders in case of mechanical breakdowns. The coast-to-coast test was so successful that the same two bikes were sent to Talladega Speedway in March 1972 for high-speed testing, where the bikes set new records.
Full-scale mass production of the Z1 officially began in August 1972. In November 1972, the first shipments of the Z1 arrived in the United States and were distributed throughout the Kawasaki dealer network where the eager public had already purchased the bikes on pre-order. The initial supply was 1,500 Z1's per month. Quite a modest supply at first. However, it's important to consider the timing: it was winter for most of the US, and in regions like the Northeast and Midwest, few people would be buying a new motorcycle during the winter months. The highest production month of the Z1 was March 1973 (2700 were made).
The origins of the Kawasaki Z1 trace back to the spring of 1967, when the project, initially known as N600, was conceived as a 750cc, 4-stroke, 4-cylinder. However, in October 1968, the project was put on hold following Honda’s announcement at the Tokyo Motor Show that it would be launching the CB750, a new 750cc, 4-stroke, 4-cylinder model, in the coming year.
In response, Kawasaki refocused its efforts on surpassing Honda's offering by developing a 900cc motorcycle that would outshine all competition, under the code name "New York Steak". By December 1969, the new Project T103 received approval. Its objective was that it would be number 1 in the world in both style and performance. The design emphasized lightweight construction and an engine that could be serviced without removal from the frame, a huge advantage over Honda's CB750.
The styling of the T103 was handled by Ken Tada in Santa Ana, California. The first full-scale mock-up was crafted from wood, providing a life size representation of the bike's design. By spring 1971, the first prototype of the T103 was completed and ready for testing. By the summer of 1971, three additional prototypes had been produced and now given the designation V1. As testing continued, several prototype V1's were made, with constant improvements.
Given that the U.S. was by far the largest target market, it was essential for Kawasaki’s designers to assess how the Z1 would perform across the American landscape. In December 1971, two V1 prototypes and a third unassembled in parts, were produced and then shipped to the U.S. for coast-to-coast testing. These bikes arrived in California January 1972, where they underwent a rigorous round-trip test ride from Los Angeles to Daytona Beach. To maintain secrecy, the V1 prototypes were badged and disguised as Honda's. A van carrying the third parts bike accompanied the riders in case of mechanical breakdowns. The coast-to-coast test was so successful that the same two bikes were sent to Talladega Speedway in March 1972 for high-speed testing, where the bikes set new records.
Full-scale mass production of the Z1 officially began in August 1972. In November 1972, the first shipments of the Z1 arrived in the United States and were distributed throughout the Kawasaki dealer network where the eager public had already purchased the bikes on pre-order. The initial supply was 1,500 Z1's per month. Quite a modest supply at first. However, it's important to consider the timing: it was winter for most of the US, and in regions like the Northeast and Midwest, few people would be buying a new motorcycle during the winter months. The highest production month of the Z1 was March 1973 (2700 were made).
TRIVIA QUESTION:
Q: Is the Z1 is a very rare motorcycle?
A: NO. As a matter of fact, if you lined up every Z1 Kawasaki made in just three years, end to end, you could build a fence long enough to surround the state of Rhode Island. Include the 1976 KZ900, and you could build a completely continuous California-Mexico border wall using just the 900's Kawasaki made in the 4 years of production.
Q: Is the Z1 is a very rare motorcycle?
A: NO. As a matter of fact, if you lined up every Z1 Kawasaki made in just three years, end to end, you could build a fence long enough to surround the state of Rhode Island. Include the 1976 KZ900, and you could build a completely continuous California-Mexico border wall using just the 900's Kawasaki made in the 4 years of production.
