This comprehensive book provides the full background and history of the groundbreaking Kawasaki Z1. The author describes how 'King Zed' became a sensation after its launch in 1972, combining incredible performance with convenience, reliability and practicality. Although pipped to the post as the first four-cylinder 'superbike' by the 1969 Honda CB750, Kawasaki riposted with extra power and a top speed of 135mph, knocking the opposition into second place. The fastest production motorcycle of its time, the Z1 received rave reviews in the motorcycle press. Rod Ker describes the various makeovers that the model received later in production, and how it was given a new lease of life as the fuel-injected GPZ1100. Finally superseded in 1984 by lighter and more efficient models like the all-new water-cooled GPZ900R, the Z1 had already become established as a classic and an appreciating asset.