This Z1000 special does away with that bone of contention, while its clever paint job evokes images of the mighty Z1, Kawasaki's first four-stroke superbike in 1973. A pair of more classically shaped Leo Vince mufflers cleaned up the styling dramatically, as did removal of the plastic radiator shrouds, the under-engine cladding and the rear subfender. Next came the metallic paint scheme with orange panels, reminiscent of the first-year Z1, right down to the screw-on tank badges. After spraying the wheels solid silver, the painter then used the same accent orange to highlight the brake calipers and rotor carriers. Final touch was a variety of chrome and silver-painted engine covers, bringing out the inline-four's shape much better than did the stock all-black treatment. The bike is offered in excellent condition throughout. Unmarked paint to scuff-free wheels, the bike is superb. Mechanically, it is as good as it looks with excellent power, clutch and stopping power through the multi-pot Nissin brakes. With only 2500 miles from new, the bike is practically new! Dynamically the Z1000's all-round goodness remains in this special, it's just that now that competence is wrapped in a much more attractive package.