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The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 and 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo are both iconic 1970s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 from Japan was powered by a 1286cc DOHC inline-6 producing 120hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 297.0kg (655 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo by contrast offered 738cc of 2-stroke triple power, delivering 67hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 235.0kg (518 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 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 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 from Japan was powered by a 1286cc DOHC inline-6 producing 120hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 297.0kg (655 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo by contrast offered 738cc of 2-stroke triple power, delivering 67hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 235.0kg (518 lbs) with a top speed of 180km/h (112 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
| 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 | 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1286 cc | 738 cc |
| Power | 120 hp | 67 hp |
| Torque | 108.0 Nm | 72.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 6 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/h | 180 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 297.0 kg | 235.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 327.0 kg | 255.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1580 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 27.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 has the edge thanks to more power (120hp vs 67hp) and a higher top speed. The 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority and offers a lighter package.
About the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300
Born in 1979, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 is a 1286cc six-cylinder touring motorcycle producing 120hp from Kawasaki.
Full 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 Profile →About the 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo
The 1971 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo packs a 738cc 2-stroke triple engine with 67hp into a touring motorcycle package from Suzuki.
Full 1971 Suzuki GT750 Water Buffalo Profile →