1978 Kawasaki Z1-R and Z1-R TC Pictures

The 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R was the first street bike to turn sub-12-second quarter-miles, and with an aftermarket turbo kit installed, became the even-quicker version dubbed the Kawasaki Z1-R TC.

1978 kawasaki z1-r and z1-tc motorcycle side view
The 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R was the first motorcycle
with a factory-installed four-into-one
exhaust-header system.

1978 kawasaki z1-r and z1-tc motorcycle instrument panel
The Z1-R's instrument panel was integrated nicely
with the
bike's aerodynamic bikini fairing.

1978 kawasaki z1-r and z1-tc motorcycle side view
An aftermarket turbo kit turned the Z1-R into a Z1-R
TC, the quickest bike of its day.

1978 kawasaki z1-r and z1-tc motorcycle engine
Extensive exhaust plumbing was required to route
gases to the TC's turbo.

1978 kawasaki z1-r and z1-tc motorcycle gauge
A boost gauge helped keep tabs on
internal pressures.


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