It has been close to fifty years since Kawasaki motorcycles started to roll off of the production line. The first Kawasaki motorcycle engine was designed by the knowledge gained through the development and production of aircraft engines. Kawasaki motorcycles entry into the industry with the mission statement to constantly develop new technologies. Over the years Kawasaki motorcycles have released numerous new models that have helped shape the market, and in the process, created many enduring legends based on speed and power. In 1996, Kawasaki motorcycles produced our 10 millionth vehicle, a testament to Kawasaki’s ability to meet the needs of a wide range of riders. Let’s take a quick look back at Kawasaki history:

In 1961 Kawasaki motorcycles started sales of the Kawasaki brand motorcycles with production the Kawasaki Pet and Kawasaki 125B7. In 1966 Kawasaki Motorcycles gained world-wide recognition with the W1 (650cc) (650W1 in Japan) in the US as a big bike manufacturer.

In 1968 sales of the H1 (500cc) (500SS Mach-III in Japan) commenced. The air-cooled 2-stroke triple cylinder is the fastest machine in its class with a top speed of 200km/h. Nicknamed "Bronco", the H1 marked the beginning of Kawasaki’s Speed King Legend.

In 1972 Kawasaki motorcycle overseas sales of the Z1 (900cc) started. Sales of the domestic version, the Z2 (750cc), started the following year. The Z1, with the world’s first air-cooled, DOHC, In-Line Four cylinder engine and other impressive specs, became the world’s most powerful motorcycle. Code-named "New York Steak" during its five-year development, the mouth-watering motorcycle was a huge hit from the moment of its release. The domestic Z2 enjoyed tremendous popularity in Japan.

In 1977 sales of the Z1-R (1000cc) commenced. It was a real-style café racer and the Z1-R’s stylish appearance received great praise overseas. In 1980, Kawasaki motorcycle started overseas sales of the Z1100GP. It was the first model in the supersport GP line-up to feature DFI (Direct Fuel Injection) and an oil cooler.

In 1983 the Z750 Turbo was released. Often referred to as "the pinnacle of air-cooled machines" at Fuji Speedway and a like, this model was Kawasaki’s first turbo-charged supersport. In the same year the GPz900R "Ninja" (US naming) was released in Monterey, California at a press introduction and test riding session. The following year the Ninja was named "Bike of the Year". The Kawasaki Ninja rewrote the motorcycle record books and took the top spot as the world’s fastest bike.

In 1984 Kawasaki motorcycles started sales of the Vulcan 750, Kawasaki’s first V-Twin American-style Cruiser.