If you ride, restore, or collect vintage Kawasaki motorcycles—especially the legendary KZ1000—you know it’s all about the details. That unmistakable sound, the classic silhouette, and of course, the iconic Vance & Hines exhaust system that gave the KZ series its street cred. But there’s a small, often overlooked piece that completes the look: the Vance & Hines badge—the slim, stylish plate riveted to the muffler. And here’s the problem: Vance & Hines doesn’t make them anymore.
At one time, every Vance & Hines system proudly wore its nameplate like a badge of honor. But in recent years, sourcing an original has become next to impossible. Whether due to changes in manufacturing, branding updates, or a shift to laser-etched logos on newer systems, the classic raised metal plates have quietly disappeared. For KZ1000 fans trying to restore a bike to factory-style glory, that missing badge is more than cosmetic—it’s like a band t-shirt without the logo.
As vintage Kawasaki KZ models—particularly the KZ1000—gain popularity among collectors and custom builders, demand for authentic restoration parts has never been higher. Yet, despite the growing need, Vance & Hines has shown no interest in producing replacement badges for their original systems. Riders are left scavenging eBay, hoarding junkyard finds, or resorting to makeshift stickers. Until now.
That’s where we come in. At Custom Laser Engraving in South Florida, we specialize in custom fabrication and precision engraving for all kinds of niche projects—and we heard the call loud and clear from the KZ community.
We’ve created a laser-engraved Vance & Hines-style exhaust plate designed specifically for the KZ1000 enthusiast who refuses to settle. Our plates match the size, layout, and visual feel of the original—but with one key difference: they’re flat, not bubbled.
While they don’t have the original domed shape, they do feature:
Let’s be real—KZ1000 owners don’t cut corners. Whether you’re restoring a ‘78 LTD, building a police replica, or modding a drag-style sleeper, the badge on your exhaust is part of your bike’s identity. It’s more than metal—it’s a nod to an era when performance and style went hand in hand.
Restoring your exhaust without the badge feels incomplete. Adding one—even if it's custom—shows that you care about every inch of your ride. Plus, for shows, meets, or online listings, that little touch of authenticity can make your bike stand out.
We’ve made it easy. Just head to our Custom Laser Engraving website, click on the “V&H Plate Replacement”page, and upload your info. You can even attach a photo of your current exhaust to ensure a perfect match. Not sure which year or model system you have? Reach out—chances are, we’ve seen it.
Every plate is made to order, and we’re proud to serve the growing KZ rider and restorer community with fast turnaround, clear communication, and attention to detail that matches your own.
If you’re part of the Kawasaki KZ1000 community, you know how rare it is to find someone who understands what you’re building. We’re not a giant parts warehouse—we’re a small, hands-on shop that geeks out over laser precision and vintage performance.
So no, this isn’t an official Vance & Hines product. But it is a high-quality tribute that gets the job done—and looks damn good doing it.
There’s something special about the KZ1000. It's more than a motorcycle—it's a statement. And whether you’re chasing trophies or carving corners, your build should reflect your standards. With our custom laser-engraved Vance & Hines-style plates, you don’t have to compromise.
Your badge is back.
Ready to complete your KZ1000? Click here to order your plate or contact us at jg@customlaserengraving.io.
Custom Laser Engraving is based in South Florida and ships nationwide. We serve Kawasaki fans, vintage builders, motorcycle collectors, and anyone who believes the little details make the biggest difference.
