TOPIC:

Hello,
I just picked up a 78 650B this past weekend for a project, and I'm not sure how to tell which "B" model it is. I'm fairly new to the KZ's (other than my 1000LTD) so any help would be appreciated.

there should be a plate somewere on the neck. Get the number and see iff anybody here can help you. For an example mine is KZ650B502139

Fairly easy. In 78 thhere was 3 choices
Frame numbers are as follows:

KZ650Bxxxxxx is the basic KZ650
KZ650Cxxxxxx is the KZ650 Custom
KZ650Dxxxxxx is the KZ650 SR

the 650's engine will have KZ650Bxxxxxx for the basic and Custom while the SR will have engine ID KZ650Dxxxxxx

I do have a "B" model based on the frame tag, but I thought there was a B2, and a B3?

The number after the B is simply the model year. B1 is 1977, B2 is 1978. B2A is late production 1978, B3 is 1979. So if you have a 1978 it's a B2 or B2A.

Thanks guys for your help.

I think the B model had a rear drum brake. I know the C has a rear disk, because that was my starter bike. Can't remember about the D though.

The B normally has spoked wheels and the C has cast but again the D stumps me. I'm sure some 650 owner will correct me if I'm wrong. Gringo?

Later, Doug

Post edited by: StreetfighterKz, at: 2007/08/15 15:59

Post edited by: StreetfighterKz, at: 2007/08/15 15:59

You are correct on everything you said Doug. The D model was the SR and like the C model it came with triple disc brakes and mag wheels but the D used a 16" mag on the rear while the C's had 18" wheels. The D's also had painted fenders, a longer seat and no ducktail in the rear and the gas tank was different, sort of a semi coffin style look with a non hinged locking cap that was removeable. The SR's also had the crossover exhaust pipes.

hey Ron wasn't the 1978 B2A the California emmission model? that was the impression i was under.

flht1997 wrote:

hey Ron wasn't the 1978 B2A the California emmission model? that was the impression i was under.

I don't think it was just CA, I believe it was the entire USA late production model in 1978. I think it was mostly emissions related though. I have 2 1978 KZ650Bs, one of which is the B2A, both bought new in Colorado. The B2 was made 9/77, B2A 6/78.

So it is safe to say that mine is a 78 B with a 3/77 production date? I have the spoked rims(no rust)rear drum brake, and no emissions crap like what is on my 79 1000. I was totally surprised on how good of shape this was for what I paid. It really just needs a seat cover, and some side covers, and a new paint job. Has what seemed to be good compression when I turned it over. I took the carbs off to clean them so I don't know if it will run or not. But for what I paid, I figure I can't really lose on this one. Thanks for all the info on the I/D stuff.
OK, not sure now if this is 77 or 78?

Post edited by: rdgrnr, at: 2007/08/16 07:37

From your description you have a B model from the production date it would be a 77. One way to tell for sure is look at the stator cover, the 77's have 3 allen head screws going thru the cover. The charging system was unique to this model year, they changed starting in 78. Don't be surprised if you soon need to buy a rectifier, 30 years seems to be the lifespan on these there have been several members here, myself included, that have needed to buy one this year.