VS
The 1972 Honda CB350 Four and 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 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 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 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 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
| 1972 Honda CB350 Four | 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 347 cc | 652 cc |
| Power | 34 hp | 64 hp |
| Torque | 28.0 Nm | 54.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 172.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 185.0 kg | 232.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1375 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 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 34hp) and a higher top speed. The 1972 Honda CB350 Four, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority.
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 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 →