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The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900 are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four from Japan was powered by a 544cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900 by contrast offered 903cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 82hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 230.0kg (507 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 1974 Honda CB550 Four from Japan was powered by a 544cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900 by contrast offered 903cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 82hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 230.0kg (507 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
| 1974 Honda CB550 Four | 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 903 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 82 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 73.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 230.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 250.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 820 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1490 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900 has the edge thanks to more power (82hp vs 50hp) and a higher top speed. The 1974 Honda CB550 Four, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. For collectors, the 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900 commands more attention with a 9/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1974 Honda CB550 Four
Honda released the 1974 Honda CB550 Four in 1974 with a 544cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 50hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1974 Honda CB550 Four Profile →About the 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900
The 1972 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900 is a 903cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900 Profile →