Kawasaki Z1 (1972)

About

The Kawasaki Z1, introduced in 1972, is a pioneering high-performance motorcycle that significantly impacted the superbike category. It features a powerful 903 cc, air-cooled, four-cylinder inline engine with double overhead camshafts and four 28mm Mikuni carburetors. This configuration produced 82 horsepower, making it the most powerful Japanese production bike of its time. The Z1 was known for its smooth power delivery and impressive acceleration, achieving a top speed of around 130 mph. The Z1's design includes a steel tubular frame with dual rear shocks and a single disc brake at the front. It was praised for its straight-line stability and linear acceleration, though its handling was less refined due to the limitations of its chassis. The bike was awarded 'Machine of the Year' by Motorcycle News from 1973 to 1976. Its influence on the motorcycle industry was profound, setting new standards for power and performance in production bikes.