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The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 and 1974 BMW R60/6 are both iconic 1970s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 from Japan was powered by a 1286cc DOHC inline-6 producing 120hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 297.0kg (655 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1974 BMW R60/6, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 599cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 40hp at 6400rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 from Japan was powered by a 1286cc DOHC inline-6 producing 120hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 297.0kg (655 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1974 BMW R60/6, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 599cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 40hp at 6400rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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
| 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 | 1974 BMW R60/6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1286 cc | 599 cc |
| Power | 120 hp | 40 hp |
| Torque | 108.0 Nm | 44.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 6 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 297.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 327.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1580 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 27.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 has the edge thanks to more power (120hp vs 40hp) and a higher top speed. The 1974 BMW R60/6, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority and offers a lighter package. For collectors, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 commands more attention with a 7/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is moderate for the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 and good for the 1974 BMW R60/6 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300
Born in 1979, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 is a 1286cc six-cylinder touring motorcycle producing 120hp from Kawasaki.
Full 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 Profile →About the 1974 BMW R60/6
A touring motorcycle from 1974, the 1974 BMW R60/6 delivers 40hp from its 599cc OHV flat-twin engine.
Full 1974 BMW R60/6 Profile →