Launched in 2001 because the successor to the ZRX1100, the Kawasaki ZRX1200R was impressed by the KZ1000R ridden by legendary racer Eddie Lawson. Beneath its nostalgic exterior, the ZRX1200R was a contemporary powerhouse, outfitted with a 1,165cc inline-four engine that delivered robust low-end torque and spectacular mid-range energy. The ZRX1200R stayed in manufacturing till 2005, throughout which era it developed a cult following amongst riders. At this time, the ZRX1200R stays a favourite amongst customized builders and classic bike lovers.
This modified 2001 Kawasaki ZRX1200R by Alpha Moto was constructed for Dan Cardenas, who on the time, was a buyer and is now one among Alpha Moto’s enterprise companions. Dan tasked the Alpha workforce with remodeling into a complete different beast and so they delivered.
“He had a imaginative and prescient of one thing way more exhilarating,” says CMRA Street Racer and Alpha Moto founder, Carlos Lopez. “Dan needed a race-inspired construct that paid homage to the Nineteen Eighties AMA Superbikes—particularly the legendary Honda CB750 race bikes.”
It could not seem to be probably the most logical transformation, turning a race-inspired Kawasaki right into a Honda racer homage, however Carlos prides himself on having an ‘outdoors the field’ method to constructing bikes. So the inexperienced, white, and purple livery of this ZRX1200R is gone, together with the cumbersome muscle bike physique in favor of a extra streamlined, spartan look and a laundry record of purposeful upgrades.
The transformation started with a brand new tail and seat styled after the CB750F ridden by “Quick Freddie” Spencer within the early eighties. Handcrafted from fiberglass, the tail unit hosts a wealthy crimson Alcantara and black diamond sew seat by Bexar Customized Upholstery. Just like Spencer’s Honda, the svelte tail unit contains a duck invoice kick on the rear however Carlos has opted for a pair of built-in spherical LED tail lights somewhat than a big boxy unit. The gas tank is the unique ZRX1200R unit however it’s been upgraded with a Pingel Energy-Flo gas valve. And the entrance finish has taken on a unadorned look with the removing of the bikini fairing and the transfer to a spherical headlight versus the ZRX rectangular model.
To raise the bike’s dealing with, the entrance finish has been swapped out for a setup from a ’94 ZX7R, whereas new brake and clutch masters had been borrowed from a ZX10R paired with chrome steel brake strains and efficiency rotors. The final touch on the controls comes within the type of PSR levers, and a DOMINO throttle. On the rear, the suspension upgrades proceed with Ohlins shocks whereas black Sato Racing rear units present model and substance.
Feeding the hefty 1165cc transverse 4 powering this beast is a quartet of FCR39 KEIHIN carbs. The remainder of the 120hp engine stays primarily inventory, however it obtained an intensive service and facelift earlier than being dropped again within the body. Rounding out the ability upgrades is a Vandemon muffler which hangs from a titanium bracket.
Talking of titanium, it was the steel of alternative when creating most of the customized elements for this undertaking. It’s been used to manufacture the entrance fender, and the brackets holding it in place. The brand new LED headlight from Cognito Moto can also be suspended by titanium brackets and this ZRX now sits on a titanium kickstand. For different elements the place titanium didn’t swimsuit the aim, such because the coolant reservoir tank, prime triple clamp, and the speedo bracket, Alpha’s opted for aluminum.
To make sure hassle-free operation for years to come back, the electronics at the moment are powered by a Motogadget M-unit Blue that’s been paired with a Motogadget Motoscope Traditional Speedometer. Using an Antigravity battery sheds a couple of kilos and has been cleverly tucked beneath the gas tank, leaving the rear of the body clutter-free. Customized 17-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli Diablo slicks spherical out the adjustments, however relaxation assured they’ll be swapped out for a extra sensible tread sooner or later.
This ZRX1200R, already a thrill to trip in its inventory kind, has been reworked right into a efficiency powerhouse. The undertaking took a few yr of on-and-off work, with the fiberglass tail seat and titanium work presenting the largest challenges. However the end result was price it and Dan was clearly impressed with the end result seeing as he’s since joined the Alpha household.
Pictures by Jason Farias
