autoevolution
 

Modified 1978 Kawasaki KZ400 Crafted By La Corona Is Fit for a True Gentleman

A clutter-free aesthetic seems to be the name of the game for this one-off KZ400.
Kawasaki KZ400 6 photos
Photo: La Corona
Kawasaki KZ400Kawasaki KZ400Kawasaki KZ400Kawasaki KZ400Kawasaki KZ400
In our day and age, this workshop’s name is rather unfortunate, but the same can’t be said about their portfolio. Over the years, the Spanish moto artists over at Barcelona’s La Corona have amassed an outstanding lineup, hosting some of the juiciest custom two-wheelers you’ll come across.

For a clear demonstration of the team’s abilities, we’ll proceed with a thorough analysis of their achievements on a 1978 Kawasaki KZ400. Although this donor bike may not exactly be what you’d call a beast, it still performs like a gem on the tarmac and looks good while doing it.

Within its double-cradle frame, the 1978 KZ400 houses an air-cooled SOHC parallel-twin powerplant, with two valves per cylinder and a displacement of 398cc. At approximately 8,500 rpm, this engine is fully capable of producing up to 36 hp along with 24 pound-feet (32 Nm) of crushing twist at 7,500 revs.

A five-speed transmission hands the engine’s oomph over to the rear wheel by means of a chain final drive. Ultimately, this whole ordeal allows the KZ400 to reach a healthy top speed of 94 mph (151 kph). All things considered, this bad boy is one competent machine.

La Corona kicked things off by removing most of the bike’s beefy factory items, such as the stock saddle, side panels, and handlebars. On the other hand, its original gas tank, swingarm, and 18-inch hoops have all been retained. To replace the discarded components, the crew went about installing a custom leather saddle and motocross-style handlebars.

Additionally, the electrical units have been relocated underneath the new seat, while the stock lighting modules have been disposed of to make room for a selection of aftermarket counterparts. In terms of performance upgrades, the parallel-twin mill was treated to a set of retuned carbs with pod filters, as well as a bespoke exhaust system that manages to look the business.

To top it all off, the KZ400’s bodywork was enveloped in a handsome color scheme incorporating silver and black, with the fresh paintwork complemented by a classy brown finish on the frame. Now, to call this machine a showstopper would be an understatement, don't you think?
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
About the author: Silvian Secara
Silvian Secara profile photo

A bit of an artist himself, Silvian sees two- and four-wheeled machines as a form of art, especially restomods and custom rides. Oh, and if you come across a cafe racer article on our website, it’s most likely his doing.
Full profile

 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories