Yes, I know trying to figure out what a strange noise is over the internet is tough, so please don't post if thats all you have to say.
Sorry, had to get that outa the way.
Here's the deal, I finally got my kz1000 up and running fairly smoothly, and went to take a test ride to test out the transmission. As I was engaging the clutch the engine had almost zero power, at near half throttle it would still die on me. I know the timing chain being worn can cause a "lethargic" engine, but to that degree? Compression is 140 psi +- 10 on all four.
Part two, there was a strange sound coming from the left side of the engine. To describe as best as possible: if you've ever noticed a slight click right as the starter engages, as everything meshes, keep that sound in your head. Now imagine it louder, but every 15-20 seconds as the engine is running.
Only thing I can think of is that little starter gear is sliding on and off its axis and remeshing with the crank gear. Any other ideas?