A Golden Era
The story of how Kawasaki superbikes appeared on the stage and evolved over almost two decades is presented by Stefan R. Oehl in 8 volumes.
The code name for the Z1 project “New York Steak” was already invented in 1971. Designed in accordance with the secret “The three S Styling Concept” (“Slim, Sleek and Sexy”), it would be the beginning of a legendary superbike series. Initially the major market for the Z1 was the USA and so the first road tests with the latest prototype versions (“V-bikes”) took place on US highways and raceways in early and mid 1972. To keep the project a secret, the engineers painted the motorcycles in Honda blue and installed Honda badges on the tank.
Kawasaki presented its first four cylinder four stroke superbike the 900 Super Four Z1 to the public in 1972 on the bicycle and motorcycle exhibition IFMA in Cologne Germany.
About the author
From completing an Electronic Technician apprenticeship and serving 15 months compulsory military service as a radar technician in the German Air Force, to his lengthy service in various technical departments for Lufthansa, my father has always had a passion and keen eye for the Kawasaki motorcycle, which never left him, even as he embarked on the adventure of a lifetime.
After starting a family, Stefan moved himself, his wife and two daughters to the Land Down Under, settling in Brisbane, Australia. Here he experienced the managerial side of things, working for Virgin Australia Airlines in its technical departments, to which his meticulous mind was perfectly suited.
With his expertise, Stefan went on to provide his services to Skywest Airlines, however was made redundant some time later.
Not letting himself be defeated, Stefan continued his work as an independent Aviation Consultant and Author, and immersed himself in contributing to the Kawasaki community, bringing you Code Zed.
Sabrina Elizabeth Oehl
