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The 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 and 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 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 KZ900 by contrast offered 903cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 81hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 237.0kg (522 lbs) with a top speed of 205km/h (127 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 KZ900 by contrast offered 903cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 81hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 237.0kg (522 lbs) with a top speed of 205km/h (127 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 KZ900 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 398 cc | 903 cc |
| Power | 36 hp | 81 hp |
| Torque | 32.0 Nm | 73.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/h | 205 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 177.0 kg | 237.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 192.0 kg | 255.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 820 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 18.0 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 KZ900 pushed output to 81hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 holds the edge with a 6/10 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 KZ900
The 1976 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 is a 903cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 Profile →