Clarion Book Review
Accessible to beginners as well as experienced engineers, Kawasaki Superbikes: 900 Super Four Z1 is a thorough reference text to the components and unique qualities of the classic motorbike.
Stefan R. Oehl’s book Kawasaki Superbikes: 900 Super Four Z1 is a comprehensive restorer’s guide to the Z series bikes of the 1970s. More than a manual, the book includes exhaustive details on the history of the Z series, the variations between each model, and when and why variations were brought in (for example, the original chain showed excessive wear and was exchanged for an autodrive chain oiler instead). Besides giving a detailed build guide in sequential order with part numbers, extensive diagrams, and photographs, it also addresses the modifications that can be made to correct some of the faults in the original design. Accessible to beginners as well as experienced engineers, the book covers the purpose of parts like the alternator alongside interesting details regarding aspects of the Japanese language. Pictorial examples appear throughout; there is no point at which it’s impossible to visualize the concepts explained. For example, in covering the fuel tank, the book depicts the difference between two different models by the positioning of the weld seam, shown with a photograph and an arrow. And for each section of the buildup, there are tables showing parts with their names, sizes, and serial numbers so that they can be tracked down where needed. Composed with the authority of extensive experience, the book points out possible errors in rebuilds as well, thus saving time and money wastage on the part of the user. For example, it notes that it’s imperative to use the correct size of bulb for the front lamp and indicators because if it’s too long, the glass body of the bulb will melt the plastic insert over time. It also details how to correct faults in the original design, as with the front fork, which has a tendency to twist during rides. Extensive details are included about what makes the bikes unique—for example, the cylinders breathe out via a four[1]into-four exhaust system. There are also practical notes about how to achieve certain tasks, like replacing the plastic inserts below the ignition lock by pushing a blade into the gap between the metal plate and the body to create separation. Kawasaki Superbikes: 900 Super Four Z1 is a comprehensive enthusiast’s manual covering a plenitude of aspects of the build and design of Kawasaki Z series bikes.
SARAH FRIDESWIDE (June 24, 2024)
900 Super Four Z1: Book Review by Sarah Frideswide (Clarion)
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Posted: July 1, 2024 by Stefan R. Oehl
Clarion Book Review
Accessible to beginners as well as experienced engineers, Kawasaki Superbikes: 900 Super Four Z1 is a thorough reference text to the components and unique qualities of the classic motorbike.
Stefan R. Oehl’s book Kawasaki Superbikes: 900 Super Four Z1 is a comprehensive restorer’s guide to the Z series bikes of the 1970s. More than a manual, the book includes exhaustive details on the history of the Z series, the variations between each model, and when and why variations were brought in (for example, the original chain showed excessive wear and was exchanged for an autodrive chain oiler instead). Besides giving a detailed build guide in sequential order with part numbers, extensive diagrams, and photographs, it also addresses the modifications that can be made to correct some of the faults in the original design. Accessible to beginners as well as experienced engineers, the book covers the purpose of parts like the alternator alongside interesting details regarding aspects of the Japanese language. Pictorial examples appear throughout; there is no point at which it’s impossible to visualize the concepts explained. For example, in covering the fuel tank, the book depicts the difference between two different models by the positioning of the weld seam, shown with a photograph and an arrow. And for each section of the buildup, there are tables showing parts with their names, sizes, and serial numbers so that they can be tracked down where needed. Composed with the authority of extensive experience, the book points out possible errors in rebuilds as well, thus saving time and money wastage on the part of the user. For example, it notes that it’s imperative to use the correct size of bulb for the front lamp and indicators because if it’s too long, the glass body of the bulb will melt the plastic insert over time. It also details how to correct faults in the original design, as with the front fork, which has a tendency to twist during rides. Extensive details are included about what makes the bikes unique—for example, the cylinders breathe out via a four[1]into-four exhaust system. There are also practical notes about how to achieve certain tasks, like replacing the plastic inserts below the ignition lock by pushing a blade into the gap between the metal plate and the body to create separation. Kawasaki Superbikes: 900 Super Four Z1 is a comprehensive enthusiast’s manual covering a plenitude of aspects of the build and design of Kawasaki Z series bikes.
SARAH FRIDESWIDE (June 24, 2024)
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