I have them on my Z1-B. Even with cutting the chain guard I got some chain to spring contact. I just spaced out the shock a little with flat washers. I also did the lowering mod by cutting off the preload adjustment tabs utilizing the upper casting as the new tabs.

They are the best shocks I've ever used. Had them on both 82 LTD and 76 KZ 900. They bolt right up however I had chain guard clearance issues on both. A little cutting of the chain guard and they fit fine.

I am uncertain of a direct bolt on application. I know some forum members have used ZRX shocks and a ZRX swing arm with slight modification to either the upper mount spacing and/or swing arm pivot. I would do a search like this >>>> www.kzrider.com/forum/search?query=ZRX%20shocks&childforums=1 OR, search under the Chassis section for more info.

I own a KZ 650 and a ZRX 1200R. I am no expert on the ZRX shocks bolting on to a stock KZ swing arm. If it turns out to be a hassle and you do not wish to replace the swing arm, some shock manufacturers will work with you to provide a shock that will fit your KZ 1000. Works Performance makes shocks in this manner I replaced the stock shocks on my KZ 650 with new steel tracker units. For you new bolt on shocks made for your bikes specs could be an option for a comparable cost of used ZRX shocks and swing arm. New shocks with the piggy back reservoir are substantially more $$$ than a non reservoir dual rate shock from Works. If it all about looks you may be able to find some used ZRX shocks. The piggy back reservoir on new shocks are typically made for higher performance applications such as racing, track days, etc. The stock ZRX units are not high performance and if you buy, I suggest servicing them. They have been known to lose their nitrogen charge in the reservoir. Here is a link >>> www.worksperformance.com/html/street.html
Also, Bitubo makes some nice piggy back reservoir shocks but not sure of availability for your KZ. And, suspension company like Traxxion Dynamics can rebuild the ZRX shocks as well as provide Bitubos. Wish you the best with sorting your suspension needs.

I really like the look of the ZRX shocks. Quick question, will they fit my KZ1000 without modification?

I wouldn't bother with frame bracing, the stock GPz750 frame is pretty stout. If you already have the 810 kit I would buy a full set of piston rings and have your cylinders bored and honed for the pistons. Can't comment on the 18" front tire I run stock 19". I have ridden my 82 GPZ750 track days very aggressively. It has the stock frame and is powered by a highly modded 82 GPZ1100 engine. It handles really well and the only changes I have made to the suspension is a ZRX swingarm and shocks and the front end off a n 82 GPz1100. The thing is ungodly fast and handles really well.

Just a bit more info: I have Works Performance Shocks on my KZ 650. They are the Steel Trackers with dual rate springs. I added these after like you I upgraded the fok springs and emulators from Race Tech. The tail used to wag the dog if you know what I mean. However, after adding the Works Performance shocks I am rock solid in fast sweepers and have a plush ride overall. The dual rate springs contrary to what you may think are quite forgiving. This is the true nature of dual rates. Works Performance will construct the shocks to your bike's specific specs and your riding weight plus riding style. I paid in the $400 range and they are worth every penny. Small price to pay for custom made shocks and access to knowledgable sales staff and direct contact with the engineers themselves. Here is a link. >>> www.worksperformance.com/html/street.html

One other option may be to look at twin shocks from more recent Kawasakis such as the ZRX 1100/1200 models offered in this country between 1999-2005. They are KYB units with piggy back reservoirs. They have both compression & rebound damping along with spring preload adjustment.

Has anyone looked at using FZ1 forks for a front end swap? They appear that they would be longer than the usual sport bike donors. I am brainstorming an upgrade for my 1982 gpz 1100. I would like to give it more of a sport bike stance and handling but don't want to too radically change the geometry. Any help is appreciated. I am looking at using a zrx swing arm and shocks for the rear. It is just the front end that i am still uncertain about.

Stretching a stock swingarm would be free if you can fab it, but would be a little costly if you had to pay someone to do it. A GS1100E swingarm is a popular swap. You can use your stock wheel, it is aluminum, and it gives you about 2" of stretch. You will have to switch to different shocks though. But since it's still popular, they tend to sell for more than a swinger off a new bike. There's one on Ebay now for 150. I bought a GPZ 750 swingarm for 20 bucks, but I bet it'll cost me more than the GS would by the time I finally fit it.

No idea on what might fit direct, but a seat from a ZR1100 or ZRX would keep the KZ look while updating it a little.


And for your enjoyment, KZ from Biker Boyz.

Were I you, I'd go ahead and get the ZRX wheels, brakes, fork, and shocks.

sHere is a 99 ZRX1100 swaingarm and shocks on my 82 GPZ750 framed ELR. It fit pretty easy with some minor modifications to the pivot. I also had to space out the upper shock mounts to line up with the swingarm. It came out really clean and looks factory.