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The 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900 and 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
The 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900 from Japan was powered by a 903cc DOHC inline-4 producing 82hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 230.0kg (507 lbs) and with a seat height of 820mm, 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 Kawasaki Z1 900 from Japan was powered by a 903cc DOHC inline-4 producing 82hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 230.0kg (507 lbs) and with a seat height of 820mm, 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 Kawasaki Z1 900 | 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 903 cc | 398 cc |
| Power | 82 hp | 36 hp |
| Torque | 73.0 Nm | 32.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 230.0 kg | 177.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 250.0 kg | 192.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900 laid the groundwork with 82hp, while the later 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 pushed output to 36hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900 holds the edge with a 9/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection.
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 →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 →