This replica Bimota is 1970s overload

This replica Bimota is 1970s overload

For a brand as iconic as Bimota it’s surprisingly hard to find good images of their motorcycles. And this isn’t a real Bimota KB1—it’s a replica created using parts from the Japanese Doremi Collection custom outfitter. The original Bimota fairing is obviously gone but the underlying aesthetics are just … right.

The KB1 was based on Kawasaki’s Z1 which first appeared in late 1972. The Z1 was one of the first true superbikes but like most of its ilk a bit of a handful on the limit. Bimota came late to the party only launching its KB1 derivative in 1978 but the Bimota formula was tried-and-tested: lose weight and improve handling. The chassis was radically revised including being shortened by 2.5 inches and given new suspension components and steering geometry.

The modifications were remarkably effective: if the four-cylinder DOHC motor was left stock top speed of the Bimota was around 144mph as opposed to the Z1’s 125mph. And the KB1 would run rings around a stock Z1 in the twisties. Most remarkable of all Bimota’s extensive modifications would set you back only about 17% more than the price of a regular K1. Not surprisingly the KB1 was one of Bimota’s most popular bikes with over 300 sold between 1978 and 1981.

I can just imagine blasting across France on one of these on a warm autumn evening heading to Circuit Paul Ricard for the Bol d’Or. The image below is the real deal.

Source: Bike Exif