1978 KAWASAKI KZ200
SOLD
THIS UNIT HAS SOLD AND IS NO LONGER AVAILABLE.
Description
1978 Kawasaki KZ200
Mint Original Survivor, Only Fully 5,374 Original Miles
Fully Serviced, Tuned & Rotisserie Detailed
If you're looking for maximum fun in a lightweight, vintage package, this 1978 Kawasaki KZ200 delivers in a big way. Powered by a bulletproof 198cc single-cylinder “thumper”, this bike is as simple, reliable, and enjoyable as it gets. It’s the kind of machine that makes every ride feel like an event—whether you're cruising town, hitting back roads, or just enjoying a Sunday rip.
Why This KZ200 Stands Out
-
Ultra-low original miles: 5,374 miles
-
Highly original survivor: Original tank paint, chrome, and seat
-
Fully serviced & detailed by Kaplan Cycles
-
Lightweight, nimble, and incredibly fun to ride
-
Rare in the U.S. – most are long gone 48 years ago!
-
Classic styling inspired by the legendary Kawasaki Z1/KZ900 series
This is the smallest KZ model Kawasaki offered, but don’t let the size fool you—it’s quick, responsive, and will absolutely put a smile on your face. Think of it as a street-legal trail bike with vintage superbike styling.
Mechanical Condition & Service Highlights
This bike just received a comprehensive 40-hour service and preservation detail, totaling over $6,600 invested in labor, parts, and paintwork.
Engine & Fuel System:
-
Cylinder, piston, and bore inspected via borescope – excellent condition
-
Carburetor removed, cleaned, and rebuilt
-
Fuel tank cleaned with EvapoRust treatment
-
Fuel petcock serviced
-
New fuel lines & drain lines
-
Fresh VP94 ethanol-free fuel
-
New spark plug & air filter
-
Oil changed with new crush washer
Electrical & Charging:
-
New battery installed
-
Charging system tested – strong 14V output
-
New horn and rear turn signals
Drive & Chassis:
-
New gold chain installed
-
Clutch and transmission are tight and responsive (5-speed)
-
New Dual-sport tires (2.75x18 front / 3.25x17 rear) – great for road or light trail use
Full Rotisserie Detail (31.5 Hours)
This wasn’t a quick cleanup—this was a frame-level, top-to-bottom detail:
-
Frame rails, swingarm, kickstand, and center stand refinished & Repainted
-
Wheels removed, hubs vapor honed, chrome polished
-
Rear wheel & brake hub restored and detailed
-
Chain guard restored and coated
-
Front forks polished to a chrome-like finish
-
Engine covers polished to a mirror finish
-
Front brake caliper refinished
-
Tank professionally polished (3-stage) and waxed
-
Side covers professionally repainted original factory red
Result: A bike that presents Like new, while retaining its original character.
Performance & Ride Experience
-
Sounds & Runs Excellent With 19 horsepower
-
Lightweight, narrow chassis
-
Incredible fuel economy (60+ MPG estimated)
-
Easy to ride, easy to maintain
-
Wheelie-capable and surprisingly powerful
This is the perfect bike for:
-
Around-town cruising
-
Pit bike duty at events
-
Vintage collections
-
Beginner riders or seasoned collectors
Additional Highlights
-
Center stand (great for storage/display)
-
Passenger pegs & grab rails
-
Unique 4-spring kickstand setup
-
Original styling in stunning red/orange pinstripe finish
Auction Details
We have over $6,600 invested in this bike’s service and preservation.
The reserve is set BELOW our investment.
Buy the work—we’re practically giving you the bike.
Financing & Shipping Available
-
In-house financing available
-
Nationwide door-to-door shipping
-
Licensed, insured transport partners
-
We handle everything start to finish
Call to Action
This is a one-of-a-kind, fully sorted KZ200—you won’t find another like it.
Call Kaplan Cycles today to secure it before the auction ends.
We’re happy to answer questions, provide videos, or help arrange shipping.
Kaplan Cycles – New England’s Premier Vintage Motorcycle Dealer
We don’t just sell bikes—we restore, preserve, and stand behind every machine we offer.
Buy with confidence. Ride with pride.
God Bless America
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, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
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.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• 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 do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
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 on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• 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
1978 Kawasaki KZ200
Mint Original Survivor, Only Fully 5,374 Original Miles
Fully Serviced, Tuned & Rotisserie Detailed
If you're looking for maximum fun in a lightweight, vintage package, this 1978 Kawasaki KZ200 delivers in a big way. Powered by a bulletproof 198cc single-cylinder “thumper”, this bike is as simple, reliable, and enjoyable as it gets. It’s the kind of machine that makes every ride feel like an event—whether you're cruising town, hitting back roads, or just enjoying a Sunday rip.
Why This KZ200 Stands Out
-
Ultra-low original miles: 5,374 miles
-
Highly original survivor: Original tank paint, chrome, and seat
-
Fully serviced & detailed by Kaplan Cycles
-
Lightweight, nimble, and incredibly fun to ride
-
Rare in the U.S. – most are long gone 48 years ago!
-
Classic styling inspired by the legendary Kawasaki Z1/KZ900 series
This is the smallest KZ model Kawasaki offered, but don’t let the size fool you—it’s quick, responsive, and will absolutely put a smile on your face. Think of it as a street-legal trail bike with vintage superbike styling.
Mechanical Condition & Service Highlights
This bike just received a comprehensive 40-hour service and preservation detail, totaling over $6,600 invested in labor, parts, and paintwork.
Engine & Fuel System:
-
Cylinder, piston, and bore inspected via borescope – excellent condition
-
Carburetor removed, cleaned, and rebuilt
-
Fuel tank cleaned with EvapoRust treatment
-
Fuel petcock serviced
-
New fuel lines & drain lines
-
Fresh VP94 ethanol-free fuel
-
New spark plug & air filter
-
Oil changed with new crush washer
Electrical & Charging:
-
New battery installed
-
Charging system tested – strong 14V output
-
New horn and rear turn signals
Drive & Chassis:
-
New gold chain installed
-
Clutch and transmission are tight and responsive (5-speed)
-
New Dual-sport tires (2.75x18 front / 3.25x17 rear) – great for road or light trail use
Full Rotisserie Detail (31.5 Hours)
This wasn’t a quick cleanup—this was a frame-level, top-to-bottom detail:
-
Frame rails, swingarm, kickstand, and center stand refinished & Repainted
-
Wheels removed, hubs vapor honed, chrome polished
-
Rear wheel & brake hub restored and detailed
-
Chain guard restored and coated
-
Front forks polished to a chrome-like finish
-
Engine covers polished to a mirror finish
-
Front brake caliper refinished
-
Tank professionally polished (3-stage) and waxed
-
Side covers professionally repainted original factory red
Result: A bike that presents Like new, while retaining its original character.
Performance & Ride Experience
-
Sounds & Runs Excellent With 19 horsepower
-
Lightweight, narrow chassis
-
Incredible fuel economy (60+ MPG estimated)
-
Easy to ride, easy to maintain
-
Wheelie-capable and surprisingly powerful
This is the perfect bike for:
-
Around-town cruising
-
Pit bike duty at events
-
Vintage collections
-
Beginner riders or seasoned collectors
Additional Highlights
-
Center stand (great for storage/display)
-
Passenger pegs & grab rails
-
Unique 4-spring kickstand setup
-
Original styling in stunning red/orange pinstripe finish
Auction Details
We have over $6,600 invested in this bike’s service and preservation.
The reserve is set BELOW our investment.
Buy the work—we’re practically giving you the bike.
Financing & Shipping Available
-
In-house financing available
-
Nationwide door-to-door shipping
-
Licensed, insured transport partners
-
We handle everything start to finish
Call to Action
This is a one-of-a-kind, fully sorted KZ200—you won’t find another like it.
Call Kaplan Cycles today to secure it before the auction ends.
We’re happy to answer questions, provide videos, or help arrange shipping.
Kaplan Cycles – New England’s Premier Vintage Motorcycle Dealer
We don’t just sell bikes—we restore, preserve, and stand behind every machine we offer.
Buy with confidence. Ride with pride.
God Bless America
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, serviced, and supported by our team, and we stand behind it after the sale. You’re not on your own — we back what we build and what we sell.
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.
With every bike we curate you get:
• museum-level inspection & preservation services
• every machine is professionally evaluated, serviced, & rotisserie detailed
• all critical systems are checked, adjusted, or renewed
• you get professional setup, tuning, and delivery prep
• done by the best experts in the industry — we ride and restore every day
• you get post-sale phone support
• 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 do not service bikes purchased elsewhere.
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 on weekends, and we will help make it right.
Auction platforms = listing only. No support. No accountability.
Kaplan Cycles = we stand behind what we sell.
You are buying museum-curated provenance. That means:
• expert evaluation
• 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.
