Packed with good advice on choosing the right Kawasaki, with a comprehensive inspection guide and in-depth analysis of strengths and weaknesses, this book covers desirable upgrades, modifications to avoid, valuation and predicting which models will become collectable (if they aren’t already). Illustrated throughout with photos of key areas to check and foibles to be aware of, and featuring details ranging from the Kawasaki community, to whether a Kawasaki Z1 or Z900 will suit you and your lifestyle, this is the complete guide to choosing, assessing, and buying the Kawasaki of your dreams.

Reprinted articles from Modern Cycle, Cycle World, Motorcyclist and other magazines deal specifically with the Kawasaki Z1 900. Filled with road tests, specs, model introductions, performance data, long term reports, and engine rebuilds on Kawasaki's Z1, Z1-A, Z900, KZ900 LTD, and Dunstall Kawasaki.

Just as Kawasaki was about to green-light the world's first mass-produced across-the-frame four-cylinder motorcycle, Honda pulled the rug out from under them, unveiling the CB750-4 at the Tokyo Show in 1968. It lit the fuse for what was to become motorcycling's most explosive decade. In never before published interviews, with the men responsible for the bike code-named 'New York Steak,' Dave Sheehan relates the story behind the Z1's development; the secret US testing programme in which a team including Imola-race winner Paul Smart rode pre-production bikes disguised as Hondas coast-to-coast across America. The Kawasaki Z1 Story examines the myth, truth and legend surrounding the Z1's first race win - of which even Kawasaki knew nothing. Here, too, is the full story of the epic three days at Florida's legendary Daytona Speedway when a trio of Z1s broke more than 50 speed endurance records.

After its introduction in 1972, Kawasaki's 903cc Z1 shot to the top of its class, surpassing even the Honda CB750 in sales and performance. All subsequent installments in the Z series are covered through to 1976, with design explanations and examinations of engines, transmissions, frames, performance, and more. Precise information is equally indispensable to buyers, restorers, and enthusiasts alike. Extraordinary, specially commissioned all-color photographs accompany a minutely researched text.

The full story of one of the first Japanese superbikes.

The Larrikin Kiwi Biker tells his story. In 1979 Graeme Crosby arrived in Britain with his worldly possessions in a carry-bag. His racing suit draped over his left shoulder, a scratched helmet in his right hand and just £150 in his wallet, he was ready to take on the world. I lifted up my cracked UV visor with my thumb. 'Which way does the track go and what's the lap record?' I called out over the noise of the valve gear rattling and clanging between my legs. the flag marshal's eyebrows raised in disbelief. I could see him muttering, 'And who the hell do you think you are - Mike Hailwood?'Four years later 'Croz', as he is affectionately known to millions of fans, walked away from the glamour of world championship Grand Prix racing, taking with him a bag full of trophies and his ever-present sense of humour. In that short time he had achieved more than most riders could ever hope for in a lifetime of racing.Become his pillion passenger as he takes you on a fast and furious journey from the grassroots of New Zealand motorcycle racing through Australia, Japan, the UK and Europe. Experience with him the crashes, the pain, the elation of winning and the international controversies. While the politics, boycotts and tragic fatalities make enthralling reading, the common thread is his determination to enjoy life and have fun. And win a few world championships.

As the costs associated with buying and owning collectible American and European motorcycles continue to rise, enthusiasts are turning in greater numbers to motorcycles produced by Japanese manufacturers from the 1960s to the early 1980s. The prolific production of Japanese motorcycles during this period today translates to consumer-friendly market values for collectors. This buyer's guide divides the world of classic Japanese motorcycles by the four major manufacturers -- Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Suzuki -- while emphasizing such landmark models as the Kawasaki Z-1 and Honda CB750, and featuring a chapter of less common models from secondary marques like Bridgestone. Photographs of the motorcycles are accompanied by complete descriptions of specification, components, paint codes, and serial numbers. A five-star rating system grades the bikes on collectibility, parts availability, two-up touring, reliability, and power, while the author highlights common repair and restoration needs, and suggests sources for collectible models.