A Tribute to Analog Motorcycling: Kawasaki ZEPHYR1100 Custom by K-FACTORY

K-FACTORY's ZEPHYR1100

The basic form of a motorcycle, known as the naked bike, was categorized along with the Zephyr series, which included the 1989 Kawasaki Zephyr (400), the 1990 Zephyr 750, and the 1993 Zephyr 1100. Both the engine and the intake/exhaust systems, as well as the twin rear shocks, are visible from the outside, expressing the essence of a motorcycle. It embodies a versatility that allows owners to customize it to their liking. In reality, naked bikes have been used in various ways, from street riding to racing.

This K-FACTORY Zephyr 1100 is a machine that expresses the sensations of its active days. It features a K-FACTORY full titanium 4-1 exhaust and an FCRφ41mm carburetor. It brings back the nostalgic feeling of operating a motorcycle with analog mechanical movements, unlike today's fuel-injected engines. The sensation of operating the engine while paying close attention to the engine warm up and temperature gives the bike that nostalgic taste. The engine is a stock 1052cc, with various K-FACTORY parts such as meticulously machined covers, including a round-shaped cam cover, which enhances its overall aesthetics. The chassis also features a K-FACTORY swingarm, machined triple tree, Hyper Pro front and rear shocks, and 17-inch forged wheels that work perfectly with the engine and intake/exhaust system. It incorporates features that racers used to enjoy, such as a wide range of setup options, improved shock absorption, and traction enhancement, which are now available for the street. The finishing touch is a full paint job that enhances the overall appearance of the bike. With these parts, you can discover new aspects and ways to enjoy riding a motorcycle. This Zephyr 1100 subtly embodies this philosophy of K-FACTORY.

Handle

The handlebars are made of carbon by Magical Racing. The front brake and clutch master cylinders are equipped with GALE SPEED from ACTIVE. The machined lever guards are K-FACTORY originals. The exterior paint, featuring a fireball pattern, was all done by Arataka Design.

Bodyworks

You can use the small item storage, license plate light, and turn signals as they are in their stock state. The titanium license plate holder with heat coloring is also made by K-FACTORY.

Engine

The clutch cover on both sides of the engine, the generator cover, pulsing cover, crank end cover, engine mount, and the cover plates near the swingarm pivot are all original aluminum machined products from K-FACTORY. You can see a significant increase in ruggedness.

The cover for the cylinder head cam plugs (adding a round cover to the standard square head cover), which gives the engine a design reminiscent of the Zephyr's roots, the 'Z' style, is one of K-FACTORY's most popular products. The chosen carburetor is the FCR with a diameter of φ41mm.

Intake & Exhaust

K-FACTORY Titanium Exhaust, designed with meticulous attention to detail to consolidate the merge section at the engine's lower center. The oil pan is also a dedicated part. While the oil capacity decreases, it takes into account the oil circulation path and heat dissipation, so you can use the stock oil lines without any issues.

Chassis

The K-FACTORY triple tree is configured to reduce the front fork offset by 10mm compared to the standard setting (from 40mm to 30mm), which can be further adjusted to 28mm or 32mm with optional collars. Additionally, it facilitates the conversion of the front wheel from 18 inches to 17 inches. The front fork is a HYPERPRO φ43mm model. The braking system is comprised of Nissin 6-piston calipers and Sunstar discs, and the front fender is equipped with a carbon fiber one from Magical Racing.

In the rear, a Brembo 2-piston caliper is mounted. Both the front and rear wheels are made of forged aluminum and have a size of 3.50-17/6.00-17.

The swingarm is also manufactured by K-FACTORY using reinforced aluminum. When the adjuster is set to the frontmost position it matches the same length as the stock swingarm. The rear shock is a HYPERPRO, and the riding step positions differ from the stock as follows: 1) 45mm back and 40mm up, 2) 45mm back and 50mm up, 3) 55mm back and 40mm up, and 4) 45mm back and 50mm up. A 530 size drive chain is also installed.

Gallery

Specifications

About K-FACTORY

K-Factory is a brand specialized in stainless and titanium hand bending mufflers. They first released well-known full titanium exhaust Quattro silencer and has been developing innovative and original exhaust system.

K-FACTORY brand page

Original Source of this Article

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