possible 550 owner

New to KZ's and new to motorcycles and all things mechanical in general. Been looking for an older bike for my initiation into the world of hands on mechanical work. Ive been looking for either a Maxim XJ650, KZ440 or a comparable CB because of reliability, style and those being good first bikes. So Ive come across a 1980 KZ550 LTD for $800 that Im seriously considering. austin.craigslist.org/mcy/232731412.html . All my research about KZs has been on 440s or 400s. Im basically looking for something that runs, drives and with work can stay on the road for years without costing me a bundle. All opinions and advice are appreciated. This seems like a really great source and if I buy this or another KZ I certainly will be around here often learning. Thanks.

Paul

welcome to z-jungle;)

the first link i posted doesnt work

austin.craigslist.org/mcy/232731412.html

thats the one

thats better,it dont look too bad;)

They are a great bike. Peppy, miserly on the gas with the 6th overdrive gear. A very nice beginners bike too. But you'll want to keep it a long time. looks like he put some lower handlebars on her. Just make sure she don't smoke and shifts good. This place will help you straighten her out in no time. Get ready for a love affair! Welcome to "Wiremans" Z jungle! As much fun as it is useful!

If you are planning on riding a bike on the freeways, then I wouldn't go any smaller than 550. You want to be able to get out of traffic pockets, and a 400 just wouldn't cut it. Maybe for just around town, but not for the highway. Save and look for a good GPz550. Just my own opinion.



Post edited by: CoreyClough, at: 2006/11/26 15:54

If the price is right, then go get it.

Post edited by: CoreyClough, at: 2006/11/26 15:56

If you like it buy it.Welcome!

Welcome aboard. A Kaw 550 LTD would be an excellent choice for a first bike. It looks stock except for the bars, mirrors and sissy bar as Gris said. If it runs well and has decent tires then the asking price is not out of line. Enjoy!

That appears to be an 81 from the pictures. That is a good thing as they had the electronic ignition where the 80's used points. I too agree the 550 is a great little bike, plenty of punch in a small, lightweight package. Go for it, you will have alot more fun with that than a 440.

The Gringo wrote:

That appears to be an 81 from the pictures. That is a good thing as they had the electronic ignition where the 80's used points. I too agree the 550 is a great little bike, plenty of punch in a small, lightweight package. Go for it, you will have alot more fun with that than a 440.

Exactly!
I've been on the 550 and for a smaller bike,I was totally impressed with it!
Very nimble,and easy to handle,and yes...lots of get-up and go!
And that's not a bad price,because that bike LOOKS to be in pretty nice shape.
I say go for it.

thanks for the warm reception yall, i appreciate it. the guy finally got back to me and im gonna go check it out tomorrow morning. Gringo, what tipped you off that it was an 81 rather than an 80?