Kawasaki KZ1300 History

The first in the Z1300 series Kawasaki came to the market in 1979. The last in 1989. There were a few changes along the way, which were reflected in the name changes from Z, KZ, ZG, to ZN. But one thing had never changed - the motorcycle's heart. The inline 1300 cc six cylinder. (scroll down to read more... )

Stankz1300

Photo: 1982 KZ1300 A4.

Kawasaki KZ1300

Kawasaki Z1300 Specs

  • Engine: In-line six cylinder, liquid-cooled, 2-valves per cylinder
  • Displacement: 1268 cc
  • Bore X stroke: 62 x 71mm
  • Power: 120bhp @ 8000 rpm (130 fuel injected model)
  • Torque: 85.6 lb-ft @ 6500 rpm
  • Fuel: 3x32mm twin-choke Mikuni BSW carbs or fuel injection (later models)
  • Frame: Steel double cradle
  • Suspension: Front: 38mm telescopic forks.
  • Rear: Twin shock absorbers, adjustable for preload
  • Tyres: F; 110/90-Z18, R; 130/90-Z17
  • Brakes: Front: 2 x 260mm discs, 2-piston calipers,
  • Rear: 250 mm disc, 1-piston caliper
  • Dry weight: 297 kg (710 lbs)
  • Seat height: 810 mm
  • Wheelbase: 1580 mm
  • Fuel tank capacity: 21 - 27 litres (model dependent)
  • Fuel consumption: 35mpg

 

The KZ1300 was introduced at the Cologne (Köln) September 1978 bike show. Then, it was introduced to the press in November the same year in Malta for the European press, and Death Valley California for the American press.

The Z1300 series was produced from 1978 until 1989. They first came out as carburated models and named KZ1300. The 1983 model was given digital fuel injection (D.F.I.) and called ZG1300. With this change the big six got a little more horsepower and torque. Also the same year, in March, Kawasaki introduced the Voyager and called it ZN1300. It featured full fairing's, bags, and digital dashboard.

Between the first and last year on the market (1979 and 1989), there had been 20,000 Z1300's and 4,500 Voyagers produced. The last 200 models, built in the USA in 1989, have been called "Legendary Six". They were equipped with a special commemorating logo on the fuel tank.

 

Kawasaki KZ1300 model time line

1978 - Prototype.

1979 KZ1300-A1 Frame number starting: KZT30A-000101
The first model available only in starlight blue with gold pin stripe.  

1980 KZ1300-A2 Frame number starting: KZT30A-006201
The A2 was offered again only in ruby red. The A2 was an improvement over the A1. Bigger sump and oil capacity increased.

1981 KZ1300-A3 Frame number starting: JKAKZAA15BA-011501
Available in two colors: holy green and ebony. Fitted chrome plated grab rail. The engine cases and air filter covers were also chromed. The electronic ignition was modified and rear air shocks fitted. The A3 was being built in Lincoln, USA.

1980 KZ1300-B2 Touring Frame number starting: KZT30B-000001
This is a US model. It was basically a KZ1300 A equipped with fairings, and luggage compartments. 0ffered in royal dark red.

1982 KZ1300-A4 Frame number starting: KZT30A-014101
0ffered in two colors passion red and ebony. Equipped with extra charger and different CDI pickups.

1983 KZ1300-A5 Frame number starting: KZT30A-015901


0ffered in passion red and ebony.