The Z1000R Lawson limited edition was released in commemoration of Eddy Lawson’s AMA superbike world champion title in 1981. In the following year, he not only became AMA superbike world champion again but also won the world endurance championship. Launched in 1982, the Z1000R1 soon evolved into the Z1000R2 in 1983, and finally to the Z1100R in 1984 and 1985.
Looking askance at other companies releasing motorcycles with four valves, Kawasaki Heavy Industries’ design philosophy that “2 valves are the best for air-cooled engines” was proven by accomplishing a feat of consecutive wins.
After the launch of the ZI, Kawasaki continued taking the world by storm with its four-cylinder air-cooled motorcycles. Made as a compilation of their knowledge, the Z1000R still has a lot of fans due to its easy-to-handle, durable engine, docile handling, and distinctive style which still shines these days, letting us experience something modern bikes lost along the way.
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