Classic and Classy Motorcycles Ltd

Vintage and Classic Motorcycle Importers

1970s Kawasaki Z650 Valuation Report

Date: August 2025

Historical Overview

The Kawasaki Z650, introduced in 1976, was known as the “mini Z1.” With a 652 cc four-cylinder engine, it offered excellent performance at an affordable price and became a UK favourite. It remains highly collectible today as a classic middleweight superbike.

UK Valuation Summary (by condition)

Condition	Estimated Value (GBP)	Example External Source
Project / Restoration Non-runner or tired import needing work.	£1,500 – £2,500	MoreBikes UK – project Z650s start from ~£1,500; rough imports up to £2,500.
Roadworthy / Presentable Running, tidy, usable machine.	£3,800 – £5,500	Car & Classic – live UK listings between £3,750 and £6,995.
Restored / Excellent High-quality restoration or superb original condition.	£6,000 – £8,000	Iconic Auctioneers – 1979 Z650 sold for £3,825 (well presented but not concours). UK classifieds asking £6,500–£7,000 for top examples.

Notes: Prices are based on current UK auctions and classifieds. The market for Z650s is strong, with rider-quality bikes commanding £4k+ and restored examples heading toward £7k.

Value Influencing Factors

Originality: Stock exhausts, paint schemes, clocks and chrome add value.
Mechanical condition: Engine rebuilds, carburation, brakes and suspension upgrades impact desirability.
Documentation: UK registration, history files and receipts boost buyer confidence.
Variants: Early Z650B models slightly more desirable than later C/D models.
Presentation: Clean examples with period-correct detailing sell faster and higher.

Conclusion

In today’s UK market, Kawasaki Z650s trade around £1.5k–£2.5k for projects, £3.8k–£5.5k for roadworthy examples, and £6k–£8k for restored or excellent bikes. Exceptional early Z650Bs in concours condition may exceed £8k.

Sources (plain text):
MoreBikes UK – “Cost Effective Classics: Kawasaki Z650” (project pricing baseline).
Car & Classic – Z650 UK listings ranging £3,750–£6,995.
Iconic Auctioneers – 1979 Kawasaki Z650 sold for £3,825 (July 2021).