VS
The 1973 Kawasaki F9 350 and 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
The 1973 Kawasaki F9 350 from Japan was powered by a 346cc 2-stroke single producing 36hp at 6500rpm. Weighing 140.0kg (309 lbs) and with a seat height of 850mm, it was aimed at enduro riders.
The 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 by contrast offered 652cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 64hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 215.0kg (474 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 1973 Kawasaki F9 350 from Japan was powered by a 346cc 2-stroke single producing 36hp at 6500rpm. Weighing 140.0kg (309 lbs) and with a seat height of 850mm, it was aimed at enduro riders.
The 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 by contrast offered 652cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 64hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 215.0kg (474 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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
| 1973 Kawasaki F9 350 | 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 346 cc | 652 cc |
| Power | 36 hp | 64 hp |
| Torque | 35.0 Nm | 54.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 1 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 140.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 152.0 kg | 232.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 850 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 11.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1973 Kawasaki F9 350 laid the groundwork with 36hp, while the later 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 pushed output to 64hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 holds the edge with a 5/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection. Parts availability is difficult for the 1973 Kawasaki F9 350 and good for the 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1973 Kawasaki F9 350
The 1973 1973 Kawasaki F9 350 packs a 346cc 2-stroke single engine with 36hp into a dual-sport package from Kawasaki.
Full 1973 Kawasaki F9 350 Profile →About the 1976 Kawasaki KZ650
A standard motorcycle from 1976, the 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 delivers 64hp from its 652cc DOHC inline-4 engine.
Full 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 Profile →