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The 1971 Honda CB500 Four and 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin 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 KZ750 Twin by contrast offered 745cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 55hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 223.0kg (492 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 KZ750 Twin by contrast offered 745cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 55hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 223.0kg (492 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 KZ750 Twin | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 745 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 55 hp |
| Torque | 40.0 Nm | 58.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 185.0 kg | 223.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 200.0 kg | 240.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1405 mm | 1470 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two standards are remarkably well-matched. With 50hp versus 55hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference. For collectors, the 1971 Honda CB500 Four commands more attention with a 6/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is good for the 1971 Honda CB500 Four and moderate for the 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 KZ750 Twin
The 1976 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin packs a 745cc DOHC twin engine with 55hp into a standard motorcycle package from Kawasaki.
Full 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin Profile →