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The 1972 Honda CB350 Four and 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1972 Honda CB350 Four from Japan was powered by a 347cc SOHC inline-4 producing 34hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 by contrast offered 398cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 36hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 177.0kg (390 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 1972 Honda CB350 Four from Japan was powered by a 347cc SOHC inline-4 producing 34hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 172.0kg (379 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 by contrast offered 398cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 36hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 177.0kg (390 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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
| 1972 Honda CB350 Four | 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 347 cc | 398 cc |
| Power | 34 hp | 36 hp |
| Torque | 28.0 Nm | 32.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 172.0 kg | 177.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 185.0 kg | 192.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1375 mm | 1370 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two standards are remarkably well-matched. With 34hp versus 36hp, the performance difference is marginal. The choice between them comes down to brand loyalty, aesthetics, and riding preference. For collectors, the 1972 Honda CB350 Four commands more attention with a 6/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1972 Honda CB350 Four
Honda released the 1972 Honda CB350 Four in 1972 with a 347cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 34hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1972 Honda CB350 Four Profile →About the 1974 Kawasaki KZ400
The 1974 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 is a 398cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 Profile →