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The 1974 Honda CB550 Four and 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 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 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 by contrast offered 1015cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 83hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 245.0kg (540 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 by contrast offered 1015cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 83hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 245.0kg (540 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 | 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 544 cc | 1015 cc |
| Power | 50 hp | 83 hp |
| Torque | 43.0 Nm | 80.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 245.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 211.0 kg | 265.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 820 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 19.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 has the edge thanks to more power (83hp vs 50hp) and a higher top speed. The 1974 Honda CB550 Four, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority.
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 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000
Kawasaki released the 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 in 1977 with a 1015cc DOHC inline-4 powerplant making 83hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 Profile →