1985 KAWASAKI KZ700

– CLASSIC 698cc DOHC INLINE FOUR – ORIGINAL PAINT – 27,202 MILES 

CLASSIC KAWASAKI KZ700! ORIGINAL BLACK FACTORY PAINT, FOUR-CYLINDER DOHC ENGINE, PERIOD FOUR-INTO-ONE EXHAUST & EXCELLENT RESTORATION POTENTIAL!

Up for sale is this classic 1985 Kawasaki KZ700, a fantastic example of Kawasaki's legendary 1980s air-cooled, four-cylinder street motorcycles. Finished in its striking factory black paint with dark orange accent stripes and original factory graphics, this KZ700 has the aggressive styling and unmistakable presence that made these Kawasaki machines so popular.

Powered by Kawasaki's 698cc, dual-overhead-cam, 16-valve inline four-cylinder engine, featuring four carburetors and classic air-cooled performance, the KZ700 represents an exciting era of Japanese motorcycle engineering.

With its muscular fuel tank, timeless styling, factory alloy wheels, and period aftermarket four-into-one exhaust system, this Kawasaki has all the right ingredients for an outstanding vintage restoration.

Showing just 27,202 miles on the odometer!

MOTORCYCLE HIGHLIGHTS

• Year: 1985

• Make: Kawasaki

• Model: KZ700

• Engine: 698cc air-cooled inline four-cylinder

• Valve Train: Dual overhead camshafts, 16 valves

• Fuel System: Four carburetors

• Transmission: 5-speed manual

• Mileage: 27,202 miles showing

• Color: Factory black with dark orange graphics

• Paint: Appears to retain original factory paint and decals

• Exhaust: Period aftermarket four-into-one header and exhaust system; manufacturer unconfirmed

• Condition: Non-running restoration project

• Sale Condition: Sold as-is

PART OF A PRIVATE MOTORCYCLE COLLECTION

This beautiful classic Kawasaki came from the estate of our friend Mike, a dedicated Connecticut motorcycle enthusiast who spent years collecting vintage Japanese motorcycles.

Sadly, Mike recently passed away, and we purchased his collection of 23 classic motorcycles from his brother, Pete.

Mike had accumulated an impressive collection of vintage Hondas, Yamahas, and Kawasakis, many of which he intended to restore.

This KZ700 was among those machines.

Here at Kaplan Cycles, we currently have approximately 240 motorcycles awaiting restoration and service. With such an extensive backlog, we've decided to offer several of these recently acquired classics directly to enthusiasts rather than have them sit waiting for restoration.

That creates an excellent opportunity for someone looking for an authentic 1980s Kawasaki project!

CONDITION & RESTORATION POTENTIAL

This Kawasaki appears to be a remarkably complete, largely original survivor.

The black factory paintwork with dark orange stripes gives the motorcycle a distinctive period-correct appearance. The original factory graphics remain in place, and the bodywork retains the classic KZ styling.

The motorcycle appears largely stock and original.

The KZ700 has the essential components that make it an attractive starting point for a restoration.

Please note: This motorcycle is being sold as a non-running project. We have not completed a mechanical restoration or recommissioning.

We recommend that the purchaser perform a thorough mechanical inspection and service, including:

• Cleaning, rebuilding, and synchronizing the four carburetors as necessary

• Inspecting and servicing the fuel delivery system

• Inspecting the engine and completing all necessary maintenance

• Replacing aged tires

• Inspecting and servicing the front and rear braking systems

• Inspecting and rebuilding hydraulic components as necessary

• Checking the electrical and charging systems

• Replacing fluids and inspecting rubber components

• Performing any additional work required before returning the bike to safe road use

With the proper attention, this could become a fantastic vintage Kawasaki rider, an attractive collector motorcycle, or an excellent candidate for a comprehensive restoration.

The KZ700's aggressive styling, distinctive factory colors, and classic four-cylinder engine make it a worthy addition to any vintage Japanese motorcycle collection.

SECOND KAWASAKI KZ700 AVAILABLE SEPARATELY!

Here's another interesting opportunity for the serious Kawasaki collector or restorer.

We also acquired a second Kawasaki KZ700 from the same collection, and it is available for purchase separately.

That motorcycle shows only 3,287 miles on its odometer and features individual pod-style air filters and a four-into-two exhaust system.

It is being offered separately as a parts or restoration project.

For someone interested in restoring a KZ700, purchasing both motorcycles could provide a valuable assortment of original components, spare parts, and restoration possibilities.

INTERESTED IN BUYING BOTH KAWASAKIS? CONTACT US TO DISCUSS A PACKAGE DEAL!

WHY BUY FROM KAPLAN CYCLES?

At Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum in Rockville, Connecticut, vintage motorcycles are our passion.

We specialize in the preservation, restoration, and sale of classic motorcycles, and we've handled thousands of vintage machines over the years.

We're offering this KZ700 exactly as described, allowing the next owner to take on the restoration and enjoy bringing another classic Kawasaki back to life.

Whether you're a Kawasaki collector, an experienced vintage motorcycle mechanic, or simply looking for a rewarding winter restoration project, this KZ700 deserves a close look.

IMPORTANT SALE INFORMATION

This is a vintage motorcycle being sold AS-IS, in non-running condition, as a restoration project.

No representation is made that the motorcycle is currently roadworthy. It will require mechanical inspection, servicing, and potentially additional repairs or replacement parts before being ridden.

Please carefully review all photographs and the accompanying walkaround video to evaluate its cosmetic condition, completeness, and restoration requirements.

Contact Kaplan Cycles with any questions or to discuss purchasing both KZ700 motorcycles.

Don't miss your opportunity to own a classic Kawasaki from one of the most exciting eras in Japanese motorcycle history!

1985 KAWASAKI KZ700 – 698cc DOHC FOUR-CYLINDER – ORIGINAL FACTORY COLORS – CLASSIC 1980s PERFORMANCE – GREAT WINTER RESTORATION PROJECT!

Thanks for looking, and as always...

GOD BLESS AMERICA!

KAPLAN CYCLES

NEW ENGLAND MOTORCYCLE MUSEUM

Rockville, Connecticut

WHY SHOULD YOU BUY FROM KAPLAN? WHAT DO YOU GET?

“You are buying from the Kaplan Cycles Family. We are not just another big auction house. We are family-owned and operated and have been buying, servicing, and selling motorcycles since 1975. You will work directly with Ken Jr., Ken Sr., and/or one of the 30+ experts on our team. We provide museum-quality, white-glove concierge service from start to finish. Every motorcycle we sell is inspected by our team.

With over 17,000 units sold and still 100% positive feedback, we are the best stress-free buying experience you can have. From the first call to delivery at your door, we will handle it all — because vintage motorcycles deserve support, and so do you.

• you get white-glove, insured, always-enclosed shipping to your door anywhere in the country

You’re buying from Kaplan Cycles at the New England Motorcycle Museum, one of the largest vintage motorcycle collections in North America. Free museum tours and tickets are included with every bike sold. With every bike you purchase, a portion of the proceeds is used to support, continue, and improve the 501(c)(3) nonprofit New England Motorcycle Museum.

You don’t just win an auction — YOU are creating & helping to preserve motorcycle history, and you become part of our family, a Kaplan Cycles client for life.

We do not take new clients off the street.
We only take new exclusive clients who purchase a motorcycle from us.

You get a guided purchase experience with, and from, the experts who care about the bike as much as you do. If there’s a problem, you don’t get ghosted. You call us — you will have our cell phone numbers — we will answer your call, and we will help make it right.

Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.

 That means:
• documented condition
• professional presentation
• long-term preservation mindset

You’re not just buying a motorcycle — you’re buying a curated piece of motorcycling history.

From the #1 family in this business — Kaplan Cycles & the New England Motorcycle Museum.

Sincerely,

Ken Kaplan Sr.
12/28/2025”

AUCTION TERMS:

All motorcycles & vehicles are sold as-is where-is.

Kaplan Cycles guarantees all motorcycles are as-described. Please read the entire description and watch the entire video before bidding.

A non-refundable deposit is due immediately on purchase. PayPal or Credit Card is accepted for the deposit.

Cash (In-Person), Card (+3% fee), or Wire Transfer are our only accepted forms of final payment.

Full payment must be made within 7 days of auction close.

Your motorcycle must be picked up within 30 days of auction close. 

Exceptions are made only for international buyers OR buyers who have ALREADY made transport arrangements with a third party.

If a motorcycle is purchased and left here for longer than 30 days without written permission from Kaplan Cycles it will be resold. In the case of a re-sale, the owner will be entitled to a refund less storage fees ($25/ day beginning 30 days from auction close) ONLY if the motorcycle was paid in full on-time within the auction terms.

We always describe our motorcycles as accurately as possible.

You are purchasing a classic motorcycle. Even in cases where a bike may be in good running/ operating condition, new problems & idiosyncrasies can arise over-time from sitting or regular use.

If you have an issue with the motorcycle you’ve received, contact us within 24 hours of delivery and before leaving feedback so that we can address your concerns.

It is important you have at least a basic mechanical knowledge before purchasing and operating a classic motorcycle.

Due to our backlog, we cannot perform any additional service work or modifications on your motorcycle after the sale (ie; adding a light kit, different tires, etc.)

We respond quickly between the hours of 9am and 5pm EST, Monday - Friday

For our fastest service please call Ken Kaplan Jr directly at 860-471-0192

We will not charge out-of-state buyers sales tax.
Out of state residents will pay sales tax with their DMV. 

We are not a registering dealership. You will receive only the documents required to register your vehicle in your state.

In our listings, title status is always listed directly below the main description.

In some cases we will sell motorcycles without title or registration. In these cases we guarantee all motorcycles sold are free and clear. We will always provide a route to obtaining title. Generally in these cases, the motorcycle will be sold at a discount to accommodate expenses involved.

Documents are mailed via USPS priority mail with a tracking number. Please allow up to 14 days after payment in full for your documents to be processed and mailed.

Keys will be shipped with the motorcycle.

Warranty:

All Motorcycles sold "as is, where is" and Kaplan Cycles does not warranty any motorcycle sold. No express warranty and/or implied warranty are made by Kaplan Cycles. No statements by us give an implied warranty.

SHIPPING:

SEND US YOUR ZIP FOR A SHIPPING QUOTE!
WE WILL MAKE ALL ARRANGEMENTS!

We have the best shipping contacts in the nation who will provide the FASTEST transport times, have a perfect track record, and are always insured and ENCLOSED! All motorcycles are shipped WHOLE (roll-on, roll-off). We do not offer a pallet or crate service.

International shipping specialist contacts are available! They will assist in ground freight, customs clearance, and ocean freight to your country. International buyers will be required to work directly with our third party shipping contacts.

We strongly recommend you insure your motorcycle at the time of purchase.

PICKUP:

We require a 24 hour notice prior to pick-up. Please call us at 860-454-7024 during office hours Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm EST.

We will provide ramps, a dock for loading, and assistance to load for free.