Kawasaki KR-1/KR-1S

In 1988, Kawasaki produced a road racing replica motorcycle. The initial models were the B1, B2 series of the KR-1. In 1989, due to the sales success and updated models of competing manufacturers (RGV, NSR, TZR) the KR-1 (B series) evolved into the KR-1S and KR-1R (C, D series). The C1, C2, C3 and D1, D2 models shared the same engine (minor updates) and bodywork (different colour schemes) of the previous KR-1. The S and R models differed slightly in construction of frame, wheels, brakes, and colour schemes.

The engine for all KR-1 models was a two-cylinder, reed valve induction two-stroke motor of 249 cc (15.2 cu in) (somewhat based on the previous Yamaha TZ/TZR configurations). The 180° firing parallel twin configuration featured a crank driven balance shaft. The power delivery was broadened with the use of the Kawasaki Integrated Powervalve System (K.I.P.S.) arrangement shared by other Kawasaki two-strokes.

Total production of all models in KR-1 (B/C/D) series was less than 10,000 units worldwide. The low production numbers has increased collectibility. Worldwide markets for sales were Japan, United Kingdom, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa (excluded USA due to emissions restrictions). Considered to be least successful of the four Japanese 250 two-stroke race replicas (in terms of sales), the KR-1 series was notable for excellent handling, due to its light weight and steering geometry and least difficult to modify and increase the power output of the engine. Proven to be fastest of all 250 cc models (Suzuki RGV250, Yamaha TZR250, Honda NSR250R, Aprilia RS250) with a top speed of 139 mph (225 km/h) - tested by Performance Bikes Magazine and subsequently at Bonneville Speedway (World's Fastest Production 250 cc).

Unlike the competing TZR, NSR, and RGV ranges, the KR-1 was not inspired by a Kawasaki production race bike. Kawasaki conceived the KR-1 to tap the incredibly competitive quarter-liter two-stroke market; the most important JDM motorcycle class in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Kawasaki was the first of the Japanese 'big four' to cease production of its road-going 250 two-stroke, when it closed manufacturing the KR-1 in 1992.

They were also the only manufacturer not to eventually produce a V-twin for this class, the KR-1 retaining its parallel twin throughout its short production. The bike never received a major update.

The KR-1 was touted as the fastest in class,[1] as well as the easiest to tune, making it a highly popular race bike.

Its dicey, prone to head-shake handling and unreliability were somewhat overlooked or rather fixed.

Given the above, KR-1s in good condition have become exceedingly rare, with the KR-1R easily the rarest of all the road-going 250cc two-strokes.

The KR-1R (D1,D2 models) was intended to compete with the more racetrack oriented 'SP' 250 two stroke models being produced by competing Japanese factories Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki. It was sold only within the Japanese domestic market and retailed for some 599,000yen (559,000yen for S model). The 'R' featured larger 35mm carburetors, a close ratio gearbox, improved internal suspension components, different wheel rims, and came only in an Ebony/Green(Black/Green) color scheme - unique to the R. Total production is estimated at around 180 units and subsequently they are extremely collectible.

In New Zealand, specifically for production racing, the Sports Production (SP/C3A) variant of the S model was produced. In very limited numbers, (less than 12 units) the SP was the based on a 'S' model and fitted with the 35 mm carburetors from the R model, and modified cylinder porting and compression ratio.

Lime Green/Polar White (B1, B2)
Firecracker Red/Polar White (B2)
Ebony/Metallic Zeus Blue (C1)
Ebony/Lime Green (C1, C2)
Lime Green/Blue 24/Pearl Alpine White (C3/C3A)
Firecracker Red/Pearl Gentry Gray (C3)
Lime Green/Pearl Alpine White (C3)
Ebony/Lime Green (D1, D2)

• Online forum for the KR-1, KR-1S
• KR Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/kawasaki.kr1/