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The 1973 Kawasaki Z1-900 RS and 1975 Kawasaki KH500 represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
The 1973 Kawasaki Z1-900 RS 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 1975 Kawasaki KH500 by contrast offered 498cc of 2-stroke triple power, delivering 52hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 183.0kg (403 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 Z1-900 RS 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 1975 Kawasaki KH500 by contrast offered 498cc of 2-stroke triple power, delivering 52hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 183.0kg (403 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 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 Z1-900 RS | 1975 Kawasaki KH500 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 903 cc | 498 cc |
| Power | 82 hp | 52 hp |
| Torque | 73.0 Nm | 46.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 3 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 230.0 kg | 183.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 250.0 kg | 198.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1395 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 15.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1973 Kawasaki Z1-900 RS laid the groundwork with 82hp, while the later 1975 Kawasaki KH500 pushed output to 52hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1973 Kawasaki Z1-900 RS holds the edge with a 8/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection.
About the 1973 Kawasaki Z1-900 RS
Kawasaki released the 1973 Kawasaki Z1-900 RS in 1973 with a 903cc DOHC inline-4 powerplant making 82hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1973 Kawasaki Z1-900 RS Profile →About the 1975 Kawasaki KH500
The 1975 1975 Kawasaki KH500 is a 498cc triple-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1975 Kawasaki KH500 Profile →