The Kawasaki Z1RTC has the distinction of being the ‘first’ of many things. Most importantly, it was the first turbocharged bike released into the market, kicking off the 80’s turbo bike rush which included bikes like the Yamaha Seca Turbo and the Honda CX650 Turbo. In addition, this was the first Japanese sport bike with a handlebar fairing.
Only about 500 of these bikes were produced worldwide, (250 in the United States) – and they were actually sold without a warranty. Built through a partnership with Turbo Cycle Corporation, the Z1RTC was sold in limited numbers through Kawasaki dealerships. Want to learn more? Motorcycle Classics has a wonderful write-up on this bike available to read here.
This specific Kawasaki Z1RTC (VIN: KZT00D-005639) has 6,235 miles. The seller has had the bike since 1980, when the bike had just 50 miles. It had a $11,000 rebuild with a 1,250cc engine (original included) and was then put into storage. The original boost gauge was replaced with an OEM unit, and 2 aftermarket items have been added – bolt-on fender braces and a Cal-Fab swingarm which is 3.5 inches longer than the original piece.
Find this Kawasaki Z1RTC for sale in Saugus, Massachusetts with bidding up to $11,100 and the reserve not yet met