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The 1971 Honda CB500 Four and 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1971 Honda CB500 Four from Japan was powered by a 498cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 by contrast offered 652cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 64hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 215.0kg (474 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
The 1971 Honda CB500 Four from Japan was powered by a 498cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 185.0kg (408 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 by contrast offered 652cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 64hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 215.0kg (474 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1971 Honda CB500 Four | 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 652 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 64 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 54.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 232.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 has the edge thanks to more power (64hp vs 50hp) and a higher top speed. The 1971 Honda CB500 Four, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority.
About the 1971 Honda CB500 Four
The 1971 1971 Honda CB500 Four is a 498cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Honda's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1971 Honda CB500 Four Profile →About the 1976 Kawasaki KZ650
A standard motorcycle from 1976, the 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 delivers 64hp from its 652cc DOHC inline-4 engine.
Full 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 Profile →