This bike was introduced to the press in '72 and took honors as the fastest production bike in the world. The engine is easily distinguishable, as this is the only year with the black colored block. This engine lived on in various forms until the '85 GPZ1100. This bike created the stereotype of Kawis having too much horsepower for too little chassis. Name change to Z900, altered fuel tank, tail section, and rear light, smaller 26mm carbs, and for North America, optional dual discs at front.
New exhaust baffles with a new part number.
Locking gas caps mandated by US government. Rear disc brakes, starter lockout switch, and a new paint scheme. Europe got triple discs, we in the US made do with only one at the front and rear and called it the KZ1000. 1978 Graphics, front brake caliper, master cylinder, carb settings, and other small changes. The front wheel goes to cast and from 19 to 18 inches, making rubber choice much easier.