Greetings,
Here is the 1978 KZ1000 Spirit Bike preview I mentioned in my previous post. My father Tom was among the approx 150 Kawasaki dealers that took part the very special event. Dealers from around the country traveled to Lincoln, Nebraska, toured the factory, and took possession of uniquely numbered, specially painted and customized KZ1000 motorcycles. A large decal was on the top of the fuel tank like the image above. In case, you are unaware, Kawasaki opened a massive manufacturing facility in Lincoln in the mid 1970s. This particular motorcycle and millions of others along with Jet Skis, ATVs, Mules, and side-by-sides/UTVs been built there in the 50+ years since.
Above: Our first picture shows the Spirit Bike in front of what I believe is the Nebraska Capitol building (confirmation from Penny pending).
Above: All 200 units were specially painted white with red, white, and blue patriotic decals and striping. They were based on the 1978 KZ1000-A2 and fitted with a Vetter fairing and saddlebags. It also appears to have a seat from the KZ1000-B LTD.
Above: Once he returned to the dealership, the previous photo was featured in the local newspaper. Our dealership had number '134 of 200' per his notes.
A future Spirit Bike post will include more event photos, personal photos, newspaper articles, a magazine article, and hopefully, some memories of the event from my father Tom, one of the riders. Posted when time permits.
Thanks for looking. Gary / kawasaki-yama-zuki
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