VS
The 1972 Honda CB350 Four and 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 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 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 by contrast offered 1015cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 83hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 245.0kg (540 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 by contrast offered 1015cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 83hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 245.0kg (540 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 | 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 347 cc | 1015 cc |
| Power | 34 hp | 83 hp |
| Torque | 28.0 Nm | 80.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 172.0 kg | 245.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 185.0 kg | 265.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 820 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1375 mm | 1510 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 13.0 L | 19.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 has the edge thanks to more power (83hp 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 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000
Kawasaki released the 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 in 1977 with a 1015cc DOHC inline-4 powerplant making 83hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 Profile →