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The 1973 Kawasaki Z1-900 RS and 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 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 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 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 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 Z1-900 RS | 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 903 cc | 652 cc |
| Power | 82 hp | 64 hp |
| Torque | 73.0 Nm | 54.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 230.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 250.0 kg | 232.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1973 Kawasaki Z1-900 RS laid the groundwork with 82hp, while the later 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 pushed output to 64hp. 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. Parts availability is moderate for the 1973 Kawasaki Z1-900 RS and good for the 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 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 →