1973 Kawasaki Z1A 900 Testa Nera (D307)
Rare “Black Head” example of Kawasaki’s iconic 4 cylinder superbike in virtually as new condition, fresh from a no expense spared restoration. An Italian market special model featuring a dramatic color scheme and black finished engine. Full cosmetic and mechanical restoration to a concours standard. Excellent overall, exceptionally clean and every tiny detail set right and proper. Paint finish features a metallic green base coat and stunning yellow accented tank treatment and yellow racing stripe on the tail section. The bike comes to us from a very well-known and regarded restorer specializing in Kawasakis from the Bologna area in northern Italy. Restored and refreshed in every aspect and fully tested and sorted. The original bike prior to restoration was in great condition, all original and showing only 1582 miles, believed accurate, but TMU. The restoration was extremely thorough and included carb rebuild, valve adjustment, mechanical and brake system refresh, new tires, electrical inspection and considerable attention to detail. Dazzling polished alloy and many new chrome components add excitement. Overall one of the most impressive Z1 900’s we have seen and certain to exceed even the most demanding evaluation.
The “Testa Nera” edition features a bespoke color and stripe combination that is well suited to the bike and very rare and unique. A superb collectable example ready to impress and excite any Kawasaki enthusiast. Comes with the original Italian TURIN license plate. Delivers a riding experience that is truly special and evocative of the era in which the Kawasaki Z1 900 ruled the street and strip.
MODEL HISTORY :
Kawasaki was not prepared for the impact of the ground breaking Honda CB750 in 1969 and decided to go back to the drawing board instead of releasing the 750 they had in development. To upstage the Honda, Kawasaki upped displacement to 903cc and added a DOHC valve train, the first in a mass produced 4-cylinder motorcycle. Introduced in 1972, the Z1 quickly set new benchmarks for power and performance. In 1972 the Z1 set a new world record for 24-hour endurance at Daytona with an average speed of 109.64 mph. A specially tuned Z1 ridden by Yvon Duhamel set a one lap record of an astonishing 160.29 mph. The consumer version pulled to a top speed of 130 mph and ran the 1/4 mile in 12.5 seconds.
With a reasonable list price of just $1895 market success followed the glowing performance reputation. The Z1 came to be known as the “King”, the world’s fastest production motorcycle, taking the title from the legendary Vincent Black Shadow. Production figures estimate 85,000 units built from 1972 thru 1975. Production versions boasted a full 82 hp, smooth and vibration-free ride, excellent steering, solid brakes and good handling. The Z1 was a hefty machine with a wet weight of 542 lbs on a 59” wheelbase. Features included full instrumentation, comfortable seating, electric starting, front disc brake, 5-speed transmission and a 4 into 4 exhaust system. Overbuilt is all regards, the production Z1 gained a reputation for reliability. Tuners, drag and road racers were able to boost output considerably without issues and the “King” wrote many competition success stories.
The Z1A was superseded by the Z1B in 1975 featuring minor updates to power, suspension, brakes, frame and revised colors and graphics. Ongoing development included the KZ900 of 1976, KZ1000 of 1977 and further models closely based on the original Z1 for many years. The original Z1A has proven to be one of the most popular models with collectors and Kawasaki enthusiasts. Despite the fairly large production numbers first series Kawasaki Z1s were often ridden hard and long, and clean examples are very hard to find.
The Kawasaki Z1 900 is a true legend that defined the top echelon of the UJM (Universal Japanese Motorcycle) class for many years.
1973 Kawasaki Z1A 900 “Testa Nera”
#D307
Offered At $37,750
Price: (before tax): $37,750
Make: Kawasaki
Year: 1973
Displacement: 903cc
Inventory number: D307
License needed: Yes
SPECIFICATIONS
1973 KAWASAKI Z1A 900 “Testa Nera”
Engine : 903 cc 8 Valve, DOHC air-cooled inline-4
4 carburetors 28mm
Top speed : 130 mph
Power : 82 hp
Transmission : 5-speed
Suspension
Front: Telescopic Fork
Rear: Twin Shock
Brakes
Front: Disc
Rear: Drum
Tires
Front 3.25 x 19” Rear 4.00 x 18"
Wheelbase : 59.0 in
Seat Height : 32 in
Weight : 546 lb wet
Fuel capacity 4.7 US gal