VS
The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 and 1973 BMW R90S both compete in the sportbike segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 from Japan was powered by a 553cc DOHC inline-4 producing 58hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 194.0kg (428 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1973 BMW R90S, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 898cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 67hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 200km/h (124 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 from Japan was powered by a 553cc DOHC inline-4 producing 58hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 194.0kg (428 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1973 BMW R90S, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 898cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 67hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 200km/h (124 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 | 1973 BMW R90S | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 553 cc | 898 cc |
| Power | 58 hp | 67 hp |
| Torque | 47.0 Nm | 68.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/h | 200 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 194.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 210.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1430 mm | 1465 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1973 BMW R90S has the edge thanks to more power (67hp vs 58hp) and a higher top speed. The 1981 Kawasaki GPz550, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority. For collectors, the 1973 BMW R90S commands more attention with a 9/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1981 Kawasaki GPz550
The 1981 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 is a 553cc four-cylinder sport bike that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 Profile →About the 1973 BMW R90S
The 1973 1973 BMW R90S packs a 898cc OHV flat-twin engine with 67hp into a sport bike package from BMW.
Full 1973 BMW R90S Profile →