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The 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 and 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
The 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 from Japan was powered by a 398cc DOHC twin producing 36hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 177.0kg (390 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, 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 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 from Japan was powered by a 398cc DOHC twin producing 36hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 177.0kg (390 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, 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
| 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 | 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 398 cc | 652 cc |
| Power | 36 hp | 64 hp |
| Torque | 32.0 Nm | 54.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 177.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 192.0 kg | 232.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 laid the groundwork with 36hp, while the later 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 pushed output to 64hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 holds the edge with a 5/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection.
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 →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 →