If you’re one of those motorcyclists who love to live on the edge and have a bank account capable of supporting some whims, this news is for you: 10 Kawasaki Z1-R TC, the iconic turbo motorcycle from the late 70s, are for sale. And the most surprising part? Some of these relics have never even been used.
But what makes the Z1-R TC so special? To understand, we need to go back in time. In 1978, Kawasaki USA, in collaboration with Turbo Cycle Corporation, decided that the already powerful Z1-R could – and should – go further. The solution? Equip it with a turbo, and not just any turbo.
The Birth of a Turbo Legend
The original model received a Rajay 310 turbo, a 38mm Bendix carburetor, and a “log header” manifold, which raised the power from the original 82 horsepower to an impressive 130 hp. Depending on the turbo pressure, adjustable between 6 and 10 psi, the bike could generate between 105 and 145 hp. It was a true beast on wheels, in an era when turbo technology was more about adrenaline than reliability.
Of course, such power came with risks. Therefore, those who bought the Z1-R TC had to sign a document exempting Kawasaki and Turbo Cycle from any responsibility in case of accident. After all, we were talking about a machine that could redefine the limits of acceleration and, consequently, those of prudence.
The first 250 units of the Z1-R TC came with a “Stardust Metallic” paint scheme, a grayish blue that didn’t hide the bike’s dangerous character. Later, Rollin “Molly” Sanders, a designer known for his work on hot rods, gave the bike a new visual life. Thus was born the “Molly Edition,” with black paint decorated with yellow, orange, and red stripes that ran across the tank, fairing, and seat. This model, also called TC2, featured a larger turbo (Rajay 370) and a “spider header” manifold, which improved gas flow.
Sales Failure and Subsequent Rise as a Classic
Despite all its impact, the Z1-R TC wasn’t a sales success. The lack of warranty and competition from bikes like the Honda CBX 1000 and Yamaha XS1100, which offered similar performance without the risks associated with turbo, drove many buyers away. Many Z1-R TCs ended up on drag racing tracks, where they didn’t resist wear and less careful maintenance.
Of the 519 units produced between 1978 and 1979, it’s estimated that only about 90 have survived to this day. These bikes have become true collector’s pieces, desired by enthusiasts who value their history and rarity.
A Unique Opportunity
Now, a collector is putting up for sale an impressive collection of 10 Kawasaki Z1-R TC. Eight of them are original, one is a faithful replica, and another was modified to include a supercharger instead of the classic turbo. All are in impeccable condition, and some have never even been used.
The price for the complete lot is 352,500 euros, which comes to about 35,250 euros per bike if you prefer to negotiate one separately. It’s undoubtedly a high value, but how do you put a price on an opportunity to own one of the most iconic bikes in history?
If you’re in the United States or can arrange transportation, you can contact the seller through the advertisement. For classic enthusiasts, this is a rare chance to bring home a piece of motorcycling history.
Source: eBay