1976 Kawasaki KZ400
Only 1 in stock
CALL OR TEXT JR. (860) 471-0192
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Description
1976 Kawasaki KZ400
– Classic Vintage Motorcycle – 17,700 Miles – Restoration Project – Estate Collection
1976 KAWASAKI KZ400 | CLASSIC JAPANESE TWIN | 17,700 MILES | GREAT RESTORATION CANDIDATE!
NO TITLE / ASK ABOUT OUR TITLE PROGRAM
DOES NOT RUN / SOLD AS IS
Check out this classic 1976 Kawasaki KZ400! This vintage Japanese twin is part of a recently acquired 23-motorcycle estate collection belonging to our late friend Mike, a longtime Connecticut motorcycle enthusiast and collector. We purchased the entire collection from his estate, including five classic Kawasakis, and we're offering this KZ400 for sale as an affordable restoration project or potential parts bike.
If you've followed Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum over the years, you know we're big fans of these classic Kawasaki twins. We've restored at least half a dozen KZ400s over the years, along with several KZ440s, and they're fantastic motorcycles!
Search "Kaplan KZ400" on YouTube to see some of our previous restorations and hear how great these vintage Kawasaki twins sound!
MOTORCYCLE HIGHLIGHTS
-
Year: 1976
-
Make: Kawasaki
-
Model: KZ400
-
Engine: 398cc Air-Cooled, Four-Stroke Parallel Twin
-
Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
-
Mileage: 17,700 Miles Showing on Odometer
-
Condition: Non-Running Restoration Project
-
Engine: Turns Over Freely – Not Seized
-
Exhaust: Original Factory Exhaust, Painted Black
-
Rear Suspension: Upgraded Mahalin Shocks
-
Seat: Custom Jack Specialties King & Queen Seat
-
Wheels: Classic Chrome Spoke Wheels
-
Fenders: Original-Style Chrome Fenders
-
Sale Condition: As-Is, Parts or Restoration Project
CLASSIC KAWASAKI STYLE WITH PERIOD UPGRADES
One of the great things about these vintage Kawasaki KZ400s is their timeless styling. The classic fuel tank, chrome fenders, chrome spoked wheels, and compact parallel-twin engine give these motorcycles the unmistakable look of a 1970s Japanese classic.
This particular example retains much of its original equipment, with a couple of interesting period-style upgrades.
The rear suspension has upgraded shocks, and the motorcycle is equipped with a Drag Specialties King & Queen seat, giving it a distinctive old-school custom look.
The original factory exhaust system is still installed, although the mufflers have been painted black. They initially appeared to be aftermarket MAC megaphone mufflers, but upon closer inspection, they are the factory exhaust.
These original components make this motorcycle an excellent foundation for someone looking to preserve a vintage Kawasaki or restore it to its former glory.
MECHANICAL CONDITION – RESTORATION PROJECT
This KZ400 was stored indoors in Mike's warehouse for decades and has not been recommissioned.
The engine turns over and is not seized, which is an encouraging starting point for a restoration.
The motorcycle is currently not running, and we have not performed a mechanical restoration or comprehensive inspection.
The airbox-to-carburetor intake boots are missing. We believe Mike may have been planning to rebuild the carburetors before he passed away, but that work was never completed.
The motorcycle will require a complete mechanical inspection and recommissioning before being put back into service. This may include fuel system cleaning, carburetor service, replacement of missing intake boots, brake system inspection, tires, fluids, battery, electrical inspection, and any additional repairs found necessary.
The fuel tank has a visible dent on one side, as shown in the photos and video.
Overall, this is a good, substantially complete vintage Kawasaki with plenty of restoration potential.
WHY WE LOVE THE KAWASAKI KZ400
Having personally ridden and restored numerous KZ400 and KZ440 motorcycles over the years, I can tell you firsthand that these are some of the most enjoyable classic Japanese motorcycles to own.
They're lightweight, have a relatively low seat height, and are exceptionally easy to handle. The parallel-twin engine offers a great balance of performance, simplicity, and classic motorcycle character.
These bikes have an excellent power-to-weight ratio for their class, and they're fun around town, on back roads, or just cruising on a beautiful summer afternoon.
We've built some really nice KZ400s here at Kaplan Cycles, and they sound absolutely fantastic with the right exhaust system!
Personally, I would restore this motorcycle rather than part it out. It's a classic Kawasaki with character, good bones, and a lot of potential.
PART OF A 23-MOTORCYCLE ESTATE COLLECTION
This motorcycle came from the estate of our late friend Mike, a dedicated Connecticut motorcycle enthusiast who spent years collecting vintage Japanese motorcycles.
His collection included 23 motorcycles, featuring classic Hondas, Yamahas, Kawasakis, and other vintage machines.
After Mike's passing, his family contacted us about purchasing the collection. We acquired the motorcycles and are now offering several of them to collectors and enthusiasts who can bring them back to life.
With approximately 240 motorcycles already in our restoration backlog at Kaplan Cycles, we simply don't have the time to restore every motorcycle that comes through our doors.
Instead, we're offering this KZ400 in its current condition so another enthusiast can take on the project and enjoy bringing a classic Kawasaki back to the road.
IMPORTANT SALE INFORMATION
THIS MOTORCYCLE IS BEING SOLD AS-IS, AS A NON-RUNNING RESTORATION PROJECT OR PARTS BIKE.
SOLD ON BILL OF SALE ONLY / ASK ABOUT OUR TITLE PROGRAM.
The engine turns over but has not been started or road-tested. Mechanical condition is unknown beyond what is specifically described.
The motorcycle has been sitting in storage for many years and will require inspection, servicing, and repairs before operation.
The airbox-to-carburetor boots are missing, and the fuel tank has a dent.
Please carefully review all photographs and the accompanying video to evaluate the condition and completeness of the motorcycle.
OWN A PIECE OF KAWASAKI HISTORY!
The 1976 Kawasaki KZ400 represents a great era of Japanese motorcycle manufacturing, when manufacturers were building simple, durable, affordable motorcycles that enthusiasts could ride, maintain, and enjoy for decades.
Whether you're looking for a winter restoration project, a classic Japanese motorcycle to add to your collection, or a vintage Kawasaki to customize, this KZ400 is well worth considering.
Don't miss your opportunity to bring this nearly 50-year-old Kawasaki classic back to life!
For additional information, please contact Kaplan Cycles / New England Motorcycle Museum in Rockville, Connecticut.
We encourage interested buyers to contact us with any questions before bidding or purchasing.
Thanks for looking, and as always—
God Bless America!
— Ken Kaplan Sr.
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.
Wheels
1976 Kawasaki KZ400
– Classic Vintage Motorcycle – 17,700 Miles – Restoration Project – Estate Collection
1976 KAWASAKI KZ400 | CLASSIC JAPANESE TWIN | 17,700 MILES | GREAT RESTORATION CANDIDATE!
NO TITLE / ASK ABOUT OUR TITLE PROGRAM
DOES NOT RUN / SOLD AS IS
Check out this classic 1976 Kawasaki KZ400! This vintage Japanese twin is part of a recently acquired 23-motorcycle estate collection belonging to our late friend Mike, a longtime Connecticut motorcycle enthusiast and collector. We purchased the entire collection from his estate, including five classic Kawasakis, and we're offering this KZ400 for sale as an affordable restoration project or potential parts bike.
If you've followed Kaplan Cycles and the New England Motorcycle Museum over the years, you know we're big fans of these classic Kawasaki twins. We've restored at least half a dozen KZ400s over the years, along with several KZ440s, and they're fantastic motorcycles!
Search "Kaplan KZ400" on YouTube to see some of our previous restorations and hear how great these vintage Kawasaki twins sound!
MOTORCYCLE HIGHLIGHTS
-
Year: 1976
-
Make: Kawasaki
-
Model: KZ400
-
Engine: 398cc Air-Cooled, Four-Stroke Parallel Twin
-
Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
-
Mileage: 17,700 Miles Showing on Odometer
-
Condition: Non-Running Restoration Project
-
Engine: Turns Over Freely – Not Seized
-
Exhaust: Original Factory Exhaust, Painted Black
-
Rear Suspension: Upgraded Mahalin Shocks
-
Seat: Custom Jack Specialties King & Queen Seat
-
Wheels: Classic Chrome Spoke Wheels
-
Fenders: Original-Style Chrome Fenders
-
Sale Condition: As-Is, Parts or Restoration Project
CLASSIC KAWASAKI STYLE WITH PERIOD UPGRADES
One of the great things about these vintage Kawasaki KZ400s is their timeless styling. The classic fuel tank, chrome fenders, chrome spoked wheels, and compact parallel-twin engine give these motorcycles the unmistakable look of a 1970s Japanese classic.
This particular example retains much of its original equipment, with a couple of interesting period-style upgrades.
The rear suspension has upgraded shocks, and the motorcycle is equipped with a Drag Specialties King & Queen seat, giving it a distinctive old-school custom look.
The original factory exhaust system is still installed, although the mufflers have been painted black. They initially appeared to be aftermarket MAC megaphone mufflers, but upon closer inspection, they are the factory exhaust.
These original components make this motorcycle an excellent foundation for someone looking to preserve a vintage Kawasaki or restore it to its former glory.
MECHANICAL CONDITION – RESTORATION PROJECT
This KZ400 was stored indoors in Mike's warehouse for decades and has not been recommissioned.
The engine turns over and is not seized, which is an encouraging starting point for a restoration.
The motorcycle is currently not running, and we have not performed a mechanical restoration or comprehensive inspection.
The airbox-to-carburetor intake boots are missing. We believe Mike may have been planning to rebuild the carburetors before he passed away, but that work was never completed.
The motorcycle will require a complete mechanical inspection and recommissioning before being put back into service. This may include fuel system cleaning, carburetor service, replacement of missing intake boots, brake system inspection, tires, fluids, battery, electrical inspection, and any additional repairs found necessary.
The fuel tank has a visible dent on one side, as shown in the photos and video.
Overall, this is a good, substantially complete vintage Kawasaki with plenty of restoration potential.
WHY WE LOVE THE KAWASAKI KZ400
Having personally ridden and restored numerous KZ400 and KZ440 motorcycles over the years, I can tell you firsthand that these are some of the most enjoyable classic Japanese motorcycles to own.
They're lightweight, have a relatively low seat height, and are exceptionally easy to handle. The parallel-twin engine offers a great balance of performance, simplicity, and classic motorcycle character.
These bikes have an excellent power-to-weight ratio for their class, and they're fun around town, on back roads, or just cruising on a beautiful summer afternoon.
We've built some really nice KZ400s here at Kaplan Cycles, and they sound absolutely fantastic with the right exhaust system!
Personally, I would restore this motorcycle rather than part it out. It's a classic Kawasaki with character, good bones, and a lot of potential.
PART OF A 23-MOTORCYCLE ESTATE COLLECTION
This motorcycle came from the estate of our late friend Mike, a dedicated Connecticut motorcycle enthusiast who spent years collecting vintage Japanese motorcycles.
His collection included 23 motorcycles, featuring classic Hondas, Yamahas, Kawasakis, and other vintage machines.
After Mike's passing, his family contacted us about purchasing the collection. We acquired the motorcycles and are now offering several of them to collectors and enthusiasts who can bring them back to life.
With approximately 240 motorcycles already in our restoration backlog at Kaplan Cycles, we simply don't have the time to restore every motorcycle that comes through our doors.
Instead, we're offering this KZ400 in its current condition so another enthusiast can take on the project and enjoy bringing a classic Kawasaki back to the road.
IMPORTANT SALE INFORMATION
THIS MOTORCYCLE IS BEING SOLD AS-IS, AS A NON-RUNNING RESTORATION PROJECT OR PARTS BIKE.
SOLD ON BILL OF SALE ONLY / ASK ABOUT OUR TITLE PROGRAM.
The engine turns over but has not been started or road-tested. Mechanical condition is unknown beyond what is specifically described.
The motorcycle has been sitting in storage for many years and will require inspection, servicing, and repairs before operation.
The airbox-to-carburetor boots are missing, and the fuel tank has a dent.
Please carefully review all photographs and the accompanying video to evaluate the condition and completeness of the motorcycle.
OWN A PIECE OF KAWASAKI HISTORY!
The 1976 Kawasaki KZ400 represents a great era of Japanese motorcycle manufacturing, when manufacturers were building simple, durable, affordable motorcycles that enthusiasts could ride, maintain, and enjoy for decades.
Whether you're looking for a winter restoration project, a classic Japanese motorcycle to add to your collection, or a vintage Kawasaki to customize, this KZ400 is well worth considering.
Don't miss your opportunity to bring this nearly 50-year-old Kawasaki classic back to life!
For additional information, please contact Kaplan Cycles / New England Motorcycle Museum in Rockville, Connecticut.
We encourage interested buyers to contact us with any questions before bidding or purchasing.
Thanks for looking, and as always—
God Bless America!
— Ken Kaplan Sr.
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.
