Rocket ship: An 80s-style Z800 from Smoked Garage

The Kawasaki Z800 flew under the radar in most countries. It’s good rather than great: a solid, slightly buzzy streetfighter that’s carrying a few too many pounds. It ended up being overshadowed by Yamaha’s all-conquering MT-09. But once you strip off the jagged plastics, there’s a very good base for customization. We’re betting the Z800 will soon be a popular bike for remodeling—not least because it’s packing a hefty 113 hp. And this 2015 model from Indonesia’s Smoked Garage is one of the first cabs off the rank. When Smoked’s client arrived with his Z800, he asked for all the...