Meet the “Little Nugget,” a powerhouse of a 1981 Kawasaki KZ440 that was built for a big rider with a big personality and a penchant for hard riding, especially in dirt, where it can go head-to-head with the big boys on their CR500 Honda roost machines. Find out how this twin-cylinder milk-runner turned into a dirt ripper at the hands of Pritchett and Sons Moto.
The Milk Maidens Maiden Voyager
The Little Nugget’s journey began as a humble 1981 Kawasaki KZ440, purchased from a sweet little old lady who used it for her daily errands down a dirt road to buy milk and bread. The bike’s original form, complete with its adorable purple mini ape hanger bars and comfy mini king queen seat, is a far cry from what it is today.
Built for the Dust Hustle
The owner of this remarkable machine had a unique vision—to take on the Dust Hustle event on a flat tracker-style bike, even though all they had was a solid block of aluminum. Their first time at the event and the first year that allowed a tabletop jump, it took just five minutes for the owner to proclaim confidently that they were going to clear it. Later, there were photos of daring jumps and heart-racing landings, all accompanied by a grin that spoke volumes.
A Style of Its Own
The goal for this build was to give the bike a flat tracker look while infusing it with a distinctive style. The curves and aesthetics of the Little Nugget took shape after studying the frame’s structure and the quirky tank design. The asymmetrical shape, with its unique intake and exhaust layout, adds a sense of balance and complements the aluminum bodywork beautifully. Aluminum was chosen due to its resilience to impacts, a wise choice considering this bike was destined to take a few hits.
Engineering Ingenuity
One of the most impressive feats of this transformation was the modification of the rear wheel. The original 16-inch wheel didn’t align with the desired geometry, tire choices, or the bike’s overall aesthetics. Pritchett and Sons Moto ingeniously utilized a front wheel in the rear, employing extensive machining and welding to create a more suitable setup that’s both functional and visually appealing.
Unleashing the Nugget
Despite the Little Nugget’s compact size, it doesn’t shy away from the thrill of dirt racing. While there may not be major performance upgrades, the addition of upgraded carbs and a carefully chosen pipe ensures it can hold its own in the heat of competition.
This transformation of the 1981 Kawasaki KZ440 into the “Little Nugget” took more that a little elbow grease. It took Pritchett and Sons Moto’s creativity and engineering prowess. It’s a bike that embodies the spirit of going against the odds and daring to stand out in the world of custom motorcycle builds. Whether it’s taking on tabletop jumps or turning heads with its unique style, the Little Nugget is a shining example of what can be achieved when passion and craftsmanship come together.