First Turbo – 1979 Kawasaki Z1R-TC

In Japan, Sport by Abhi2 Comments

Post-Listing Update: This Kawasaki Z1R-TC got up to $17,200 but did not meet reserve.

The Kawasaki Z1R-TC 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 push 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.

Kawasaki Z1R-TC - Left Side

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 Z1R-TC 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.

Kawasaki Z1R-TC - Cockpit

This specific Kawasaki Z1R-TC (VIN: KZT00D-001417) is a peach with just 9,905 miles It’s claimed to be in excellent original condition, and the only flaw is that the fuel gauge does not work. It has been with the seller since January of 2009 and comes with the original TC registration, owners handbook, Turbo supplement book, and tool pouch.

Kawasaki Z1R-TC - Front Left

Find this Kawasaki Z1R-TC for sale in Austin, Texas with bidding up to $15,000 and the reserve not yet met