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The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1974 Honda CB550 Four from Japan was powered by a 544cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin by contrast offered 745cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 55hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 223.0kg (492 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 1974 Honda CB550 Four from Japan was powered by a 544cc SOHC inline-4 producing 50hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin by contrast offered 745cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 55hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 223.0kg (492 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
| 1974 Honda CB550 Four | 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 745 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 55 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 58.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 223.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 240.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1974 Honda CB550 Four has the edge thanks to a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority. For collectors, the 1974 Honda CB550 Four commands more attention with a 6/10 collectibility rating. Parts availability is good for the 1974 Honda CB550 Four and moderate for the 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1974 Honda CB550 Four
Honda released the 1974 Honda CB550 Four in 1974 with a 544cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 50hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1974 Honda CB550 Four Profile →About the 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin
The 1976 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin packs a 745cc DOHC twin engine with 55hp into a standard motorcycle package from Kawasaki.
Full 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin Profile →