June 2016
In memory of Mike Barouch who has passed away since this article was written.
This modified 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 belongs to Mike Barouch from the USA.
This motorcycle started out as a 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000. The bike has a 1976 KZ900 motor punched out
to 1015cc. The motor is fitted with a KZ1000 cylinder head and J.E. pistons and has a 10.5:1 compression
ratio. It has Mikuni VM28SS carburettors from a Z1R.
Please note the top photograph shows the motorcycle with earlier carburettors.
Dyna S ignition is used. The ignition and light switches have been relocated towards the back of the
left side panel. There are several other modifications such as a Corbin seat and Marving
exhaust.
The fuel tank is KZ900 with pin striping similar to Z1B graphics.
Passenger footrest brackets and center stand tabs have been removed. A shortened side stand is
used.
The headlight is from a Harley Davidson Sportster and the tail light from a Kawasaki ZX12.
The steering is raked by 6 degrees using custom fork trees (yokes). The handlebars are from a Harley Davidson
Sportster and are fitted to the trees with one inch risers. The swing arm is from a KZ1000 LTD. These are longer
than standard KZ1000 items. Shortened 11 inch rear shocks are fitted. The front forks are from a KZ1000
CSR.
The wheels are from a KZ1000 LTD. Tires are 100-90-19 front and 150-80-16 rear.
The front fender has been drilled to fit closer to the tire. The rear fender has been removed.
The bike has no tachometer or speedometer. This is legal in Las Vegas where Mike lives.