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The 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic and 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic from Japan was powered by a 736cc SOHC inline-4 producing 47hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 232.0kg (511 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 by contrast offered 398cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 36hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 177.0kg (390 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 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic from Japan was powered by a 736cc SOHC inline-4 producing 47hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 232.0kg (511 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 by contrast offered 398cc of DOHC twin power, delivering 36hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 177.0kg (390 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
| 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic | 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 736 cc | 398 cc |
| Power | 47 hp | 36 hp |
| Torque | 52.0 Nm | 32.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 165 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 232.0 kg | 177.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 248.0 kg | 192.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1480 mm | 1370 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 2 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic has the edge thanks to more power (47hp vs 36hp) and a higher top speed. The 1974 Kawasaki KZ400, however, excels when all-round versatility and everyday riding is the priority and offers a lighter package. Parts availability is moderate for the 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic and good for the 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic
Honda released the 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic in 1976 with a 736cc SOHC inline-4 powerplant making 47hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1976 Honda CB750A Hondamatic Profile →About the 1974 Kawasaki KZ400
The 1974 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 is a 398cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 Profile →