Kawasaki B1s

[Havana]

Seen a few beautiful old B1s around Taiwan, I already have a nifty scooter but fancied something for the weekends to head up into the mountains on. Any ideas on how much it would cost to pick one up?? Are they a gas guzzler too or are they better than scooters?

[jamie]

The Kawasaki B1 is a classic Taiwan motorcycle and represents much of Taiwan's working history and more traditional times. The B1 used to be an integral part of many people's working lives a few decades ago and has become a bit of a local icon in the motorcycle circle. Prices for this old two stroke can be quite high compared to other bikes of similar function and quality can vary quite a bit, especially as we are talking classic here. A typical reconditioned Kawasaki B1 might go for anywhere from NT$40,000~NT$75,000 depending on the style and level and quality. Do be aware that any two stroke may not be very strong in the economy department, although should provide good torque, low speed motoring. Four stroke engines have since replaced many two stroke motors in the past as they are cleaner and more efficient. The Kawasaki B1 was fazed out almost twenty years ago now and so many parts may no longer be available. This has caused the bike to become even more of a collectors item and may soon become more scarce on the streets.

[flamenco]

What is this bike? It sounds interesting.

[jamie]

Here's a picture of one for you.

[edlithgow]

Here's another one, from a slightly less anal angle.

These (BI or BII, not sure) machines (though tarted up) are in more original trim. The previous pic's example has a non-standard seat. Perhaps it was converted from a short-seat machine that had done gas-cylinder transport duty, which is their common working role. It also has a non-original half (assed) chain cover.



The other common manifestation of these machines is as the front half of a three-wheel light truck. Had some pics of those but I seem to have lost them when Yahoo briefcase shut down, though I thought I'd got them out. Bugger.

[jamie]

As you noted about the seat. I believe that is quite possibly an original fitment. At least I have seen those rear racks up close and they certainly seem factory pressed to match that bike precisely. The chain guard is certainly off another bike though. I wonder if the B1 came in a commercial version and commuter version like some of the more modern 4 strokes.

That one you posted has been changed quite a lot too.
It has had seat, front mud guard, battery box, rear light, rear mud guard, fuel tank and indicators changed from original paint and spec by the looks of it.
Its certainly difficult to find a really nice one in original condition. I've always loved the things. I would hope one day I could afford the money and space to find a near perfect example and store it until days like the beautiful weather we are having recently when I could take a day off and go for a ride.