1980 KZ440

[nlaao03]

Hello all, here is a 1980 kz440 I came across. I actually purchased it off a member to these boards so it might look familiar. I am going to try to finish it the way it has been going. I like the idea about the single carb set-up so I will see if I can get it to work too. Im open to ideas and suggestions. Im going to be taking the KZ650 disk break and forks off and put the original fork and wheel back on. With that being said There is going to be a KZ650 front forks and disk wheel/tire for sale or trade for other KZ440 parts.
This will be a slow project mainly because of money. I usually buy/sell/trade things to fund projects. This is what it looked like when I brought it home.





This is what it looks like as of right now. I really wanted to check compression before I started on the project. It had great compression and I also got it started while I was messing with everything today. Hearing it start gives me better confidence in vesting a little into it.

[tpierce]

Always great to hear them run. Hopefully someone out there can help you with the parts you need. Forsyth has their annual motorcycle show and swap meet Sept. 27th. Never know - you might find something there!
I was at 60 West Salvage last week and saw a couple of Kaw. twins also.
West 60 Cycle Salvage 417-451-0871
Good luck.

[Tim-WT]

Hearing it run is a great motivator!

Look forward to seeing this build come to life. Lot's of KZ and small UJM parts in all our garages. Tell us what you need as you go.

Thanks for posting!

[nlaao03]

I have a triple tree and some other small nuts, bolts, spacers on the way. As soon as it comes in I can hopefully get the front end back together. Il post pics as it comes together.

[Tim-WT]

Great!

[nlaao03]

Little update: I received my triple tree in the mail. I put it on and finally got the original front forks and wheel on. That is when the next problem occurred. I am missing the brake cable for it. I am also a little confused on the the brake handle is supposed to connect to because I am also missing that with the handlebar switches. Is there a front brake switch on this bike? I guess what Im asking, is there anyone out there that can give me a close up pic of the handle bar area of a kz with drum front brake? Does anyone have a front brake cable for a drum style front brake?

[Tim-WT]

Yes there should be a little "push" switch to activate the break light. Should be in the lever.

[nlaao03]

Update: I ended up selling the bike. I came across another project I like more and only have timid and room for one project. Thanks for any and all advice on the build that never really took off.

[Tim-WT]

Look forward to your new build!