TOPIC:

Europe got the 'Z' & elsewhere got the 'KZ' ...anyone know why?

I believe Marketing and given the slight variation in the two models.

I was told a long time ago it was mainly for recognition purposes.

There are a lot of KZ models that are also Z in Europe.

There are also a lot of differences between the KZ & Z models.

Pete F

I can explain: the short-term "KZ" stands in German for "Konzentrationslager" which means concentration camp. Yes, those the Nazi's had in WWII where they killed approx. 6 Mio people.

Guess they did not want to promote a modell that relates to these incidents in history.

I learnt though that the difference between the Zs and the KZs are minor.

regards,

Holger

As far as I have seen the differences between the Euro Z & The USA KZ are mainly:-

Right hand handlebar switch. Throttle cables UNDER on KZ (ontop on Z).
Handlebars. Higher on KZ.
Longer clutch & throttle cables on KZ due to higher handlebars.
Speedo 140mph on Euro model (55mph on KZ).
Lights permanently ON with ignition (KZ) not on Z.
Extra warning light on KZ dash for bulb blown (white).
Cam cover with reed valves on KZ (not on Z).
Ridiculous "fart" emission valve linked from cam cover reed valves to airbox on KZ (not on Z).
Flashers permanently ON with KZ (only on with indicator switch on Z).
Small petrol tank on KZ (large 27 litre on Z).
Smaller chrome badge mounts on KZ tank (larger on Z).
Amber side reflectors on radiator side rubbers on KZ (not on Z).
Short rear fender on KZ (longer on Z).......for English rain !!
Amber side reflectors in short rear fender on KZ (Red on Z).
Red reflector under license plate on Z not on KZ.
Side panel badges KZ USA & Z Euro.

KZ obviously LEFT HAND DRIVE.............Z RIGHT HAND DRIVE !!!!..haha.

Pete F

I recentl ylearned that the side-cover fro the German models has been different to all other, in addition to the Z1300-letters it did carry a small German-flag.

Anyone notice that yet ?

regards,

Holger