The Story of Kelvin Jones’ 1978 Kawasaki KZ1000

Although the KZ1000 was born and introduced to the world in 1977, the release of the A2 models a year later might have had the more noteworthy debut.

The Americanization of Kawasaki in June of 1978 had commenced with 200 personalized KZ1000’s for their dealers to ride in convoy from Lincoln to a celebratory reception in St.Louis. After that, the 200 riders went their separate ways to bring these new gems back to their respective dealerships.

Z1 Enterprises customer Kelvin Jones (Lakeland, FL) restored this classic bike with a few personal touches.

“The bike was purchased in Winston Salem, NC in June 2012”, Jones recalls. “I finished the final touches in January 2021.”

This KZ1000A2 was in good, running condition when Jones purchased it. The old seat cover was replaced with a red and black cover, which matches the red (with gold flake) paint job. The stock mag wheels were swapped out in favor of Invader 5-spoke chrome rims.

“This is actually my second build”, explains Jones. “The first was a ’79 LTD, built back in 1982”.

Excellent build, Kelvin, and thanks for choosing Z1 Enterprises to assist in the resurrection of this classic Kaw!

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