Today we’re back to basics. Slovenia located Krakenhead Customs rebuilt this beautiful retro Kawasaki KZ1000 J model from 1981 into a restomodded beauty. This build is definitely a vision above sticking to the rules or complying with any segment rules. It’s not a clean cafe racer… It’s a very tasteful mix of styles. I kind of like this raw metal – polished, dark look with a candy red tank as a contrast.
So what we have here?
The suspension is upgraded – on the front, we have a USD conversion made with Kayaba shocks. On the rear end – Showa mono shock with a custom made swingarm (which also accommodates the battery). You can see how long the whole thing is!
Brakes were also upgraded – we have Tokico and Brembo calipers (front and rear) with Brembo master cylinders – only top quality stuff.
These beautiful spoked wheels are by BEHR 3.5” front and 5.5” rear. Obviously, a lot of soda blasting and cleaning was made as the motorcycle was found neglected. It’s quite surprising that the engine and gearbox were not fully restored. As after inspection – they turned out to be in good shape. And I especially appreciate that the heart is still original. The carbs are stock with K&N filters. The chain was converted to a 520.
The fuel tank is one of the most beautiful and characteristic tanks in history. Only Kawasaki made them this cool. It’s from a KZ1000A. Electrics were restored completely, integrated mini switches, led lighting and electronic speedo integrated into the headlamp.
And on top of these performance upgrades… they put these retro looking exhaust pipes. How cool is that!
Source: Krakenhead Customs
