When Kawasaki Z1 for the first time
appeared on the 1972 IFMA show in
Cologne, it made a lasting
impression on visitors, who could
hardly have been more impressed.
The model marked Kawasaki's entry
into the market for large
multi-cylinder four-stroke bikes and
has since consolidated Kawasaki's
position as one of the world's
leading manufacturer of high
performance motorcycles.Hoofddorp, April 13, 2012 - As the first motorcycle in the Z-series 40-year history, the 903 cc version of the Z1 was a real motorcycle icon and, for many enthusiasts and industry experts, a motorcycle of great historical importance. The combination of advanced technologies and timeless design makes the Z1 to one of the most sought-after collectors' items in the motorcycle world.
Inspiring and innovative, as best described the four-cylinder sport touring machine, which led to a series of successful Z-models, and with his engineering and design also inspired many later Kawasaki models in the Z series, including the highly topical Z750R and " Ztreetfightern "Z1000.
Z1 had a great influence in the overall design of the first liquid-cooled Z1000, which launched in 2003. Many design details,
including muffler with four exhaust and the characteristic bakkåporna comes from the original Z-machine, which was designed by Gyoichi 'Ben' Inamura and his team of enthusiastic engineers in the early 70's.
Now celebrating it's 40th anniversary of the Z-series made its European debut in 1972 with the legendary Z1. Kawasaki is planning a series of activities around the anniversary in 2012, culminating in an exhibition with the Z-bikes on the German Intermot show in October.
With an enthusiasm that extends 40 years represent 60-year-old Franz Volkman in Speyer, Germany is one of the motorcycle enthusiasts who bought the first Z-model as soon as it became available in Europe in the early 70's.
"As soon as I saw the first Z1-ball on the IFMA show in Cologne in September '72, I wanted it, so I hit directly. It became one of the very early Z1 that was delivered in March '73. I asked Kawasaki dealer to give me a call as soon as he had the bike at home. He called me at work and I took the day off!
What was it that was so amazing with the Z1? In addition to great design was all about the powerful engine with 82 hp, which made the Z1 to the most powerful bike! Nothing came even close to the Z1. Everything felt right, as if every little detail was designed and constructed the world's best technologies. "
Yasushi Kawakami, president of Kawasaki Europe, hoping that the celebration will be appreciated by many Z enthusiasts: "We think it is great that both old and new customers are interested in our heritage, whether they are modern or historic motorcycles. Now we are all forward with excitement! By showing the Z-series 40-year history, will celebrate the present and future Kawasaki rider. With so enthusiastic and loyal customers, I am sure that interest in the Z1 anniversary is going to be big! "
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