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The 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 and 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin 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 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 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 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 Kawasaki KZ400 | 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 398 cc | 745 cc |
| Power | 36 hp | 55 hp |
| Torque | 32.0 Nm | 58.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 177.0 kg | 223.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 192.0 kg | 240.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1370 mm | 1470 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 KZ750 Twin pushed output to 55hp. Both share equal collector appeal at 4/10. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection. Parts availability is good for the 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 and moderate for the 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 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 →