The `78 KZ1000 LTD is just what you've heard: a screaming engine that delivers more power than can usually be utilized by a fairly scant chassis. If you're considering a `78, let me suggest the following:
1. Plan to lay down some cash for a decent set of tires. Most of the 1000s I've come...
read more
The `78 KZ1000 LTD is just what you've heard: a screaming engine that delivers more power than can usually be utilized by a fairly scant chassis. If you're considering a `78, let me suggest the following:
1. Plan to lay down some cash for a decent set of tires. Most of the 1000s I've come across either in lots or in somebody's front yard have old, balding tires that are not suitable for riding further than the nearest bike shop.
2. Parts for older Kawis aren't hard to come by, but can be very expensive (considering what a fairly complete bike might cost). don't buy a bike thinking side covers, chain/sprockets, mirrors etc come cheap. They don't.
3. The KZ1000 is not (yet) considered a collectible bike, unlike its older, 900cc cousins. While the 1000 has begun to appreciate in recent years, it is still not nearly as desirable (or expensive) as an early Z-1 or stock 900.
Which brings me to my final point: there are a lot of features on the `78 1000 that were not available on earlier models, like dual front disks. The `78 LTD is a fun ride because it is fast, reliable (if properly maintained) and handles as well in town as it does on the freeway at ninety mph. If you're used to bikes that have a heavier, more solid feel on the road, the speed and slightly unforgiving suspension of the LTD 1000 might well scare the pants off you (or at least scare you back onto your clunky old Honda). If not, you might enjoy riding the fastest production bike of 1978, manufactured just a few years before the Ninja came along and made plastic "hip" again.
Show less
