Which year was the best

Looking at a '79 KZ1300. I've had two of these bikes, a 1985 Voyager 1300 and an earlier model custom job with a turbo. I was just wondering since they were made for 10 years in so many different flavors which year model would be considered the best.

The one you like most

Having owned 3 79's I've always been partial to 79 myself (still own 2) however I'm sure we all favour the year of bike we own the best...

In all honesty, apart from a few small detail changes, these bikes never really differed that much over the years. True, some prefer the larger oil sump and second (left side) stator of the later models, but it's nothing that affected performance too much. Ignition pickup location is the only other big change I know about, and it, to me, is rather arbitrary as well.

Basically, if it's in good shape, you can't go too wrong, no matter what year it is.

The first production year seems to be desirable to many. As far as improvements go, Kawasaki sorted out most of the serious issues with the 1300's by 1982.

Early 1979 models have poorly fit pistons from out-of-found cylinders and had oil consumption problems.

1979 to 80 with shallow oil sumps are known for crankshaft and rod bearing failure.

1981 solved the lubrication issues, but used a new ignition system that is notorious for failure and impossible to find some parts for.

After 82 these problems were all behind the 1300. So I would say from a mechanical standpoint 1982 is the best year, or anything made after...