1980 kz440

hello, I have come across a 1980 kz440. it will sart, but it is very hard to do so, also it back fires and struggles to get to third gear. I have put new points and condenser and set the timimg to factory specs, and have overhauled both carbs. i would like to pose to questions to the forum. first all i can find is information about point timeing, nothing about engine timeing ( there must be a chain that connects the cam to the crank) can any body help.
Second on the fork it tells me that it is a 1980 kz440 but the timing advancer reads kz400 could this be the problem?
i would like it very much if sombody could help me with this querry, be kind if i have broken any rules of the forum, this is my first forum ever, and my first motorcycle restoration ever thankyou in advance for all who choose to help

Check with the finest single model motorcycle website on the planet, www.kz400.com/

An amazing KZ400/440 resource!

Welcome aboard, please post pics of your ride, we love pics;)

The timing advance on my bike ('79 KZ400) has a "KZ400" stamped on it too. Just checked the kawasaki website and the 1979 KZ400 timing advance (or breaker governor depending on who you ask) is the same one used on the 1980 KZ440 series A,B, and D (part # 21148-1002). Don't know which is yours, but it's a good chance its the right one.

I'm pretty much a newbie too so I can't help out much with your other questions. Good Luck!