Japan’s AC Sanctuary can be considered a sort of modern-day temple for the 70s and 80s four-cylinder motorcycles, a place where old Japanese bikes can find a new life through a significant upgrade – in accordance with the standards of modern technology – that would not affect their original charm.
This workshop was founded by Mr.
Hiroyuki Nakamura in 1995 in Edogawa, eastern Tokyo, and now they have six branches scattered throughout Japan.
One of the latest creations is this awesome Kawasaki Z1, which has been labeled RCM-242 (where RCM stands for Real Complete Machine).
The 900 cc Kawasaki Z1 was launched in 1972 at the Intermot Motor Show of Cologne, Germany, and was produced until 1977, when it got replaced by the Z1000.
It was powered by a 903 cc in-line-4 (with a pair of 28 mm Mikuni carbs) producing a maximum power of 82 hp at 8,500 rpm and a top speed of over 210 km/h (130 mph).
The engine was completely disassembled and then rebuilt with some serious upgrades such as a new balanced crankshaft and bigger valves.
Then we got a stronger chain, a clutch borrowed from a Z1000 of the Police, 36 mm Mikuni TMR carburettors and a cool ‘4-in-1′ exhaust system courtesy of Nitro Racing.
The chassis has been revised as well: there’s a Daytona handlebar lifted from a ZRX 1200 (which donated the front mudguard as well) a pair of Öhlins shock absorbers at the rear, similar to those fitted as standard on the Yamaha XJR 1300.
The brakes are provided by Italian masters Brembo, while the 17″ wheels are mated to Dunlop Qualifier II tires.
