VS
The 1978 Honda CX500 and 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900 are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1978 Honda CX500 from Japan was powered by a 497cc OHV V-twin producing 50hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 205.0kg (452 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 1978 Honda CX500 from Japan was powered by a 497cc OHV V-twin producing 50hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 205.0kg (452 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
| 1978 Honda CX500 | 1972 Kawasaki Z1 900 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 497 cc | 903 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 82 hp |
| Torque | 42.0 Nm | 73.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 170 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 205.0 kg | 230.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 222.0 kg | 250.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 820 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 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 1978 Honda CX500, 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 1978 Honda CX500
The 1978 1978 Honda CX500 packs a 497cc OHV V-twin engine with 50hp into a standard motorcycle package from Honda.
Full 1978 Honda CX500 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 →