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The 1979 Honda CB750K and 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 are both iconic 1970s standards that defined their respective markets.
The 1979 Honda CB750K from Japan was powered by a 748cc SOHC inline-4 producing 73hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 230.0kg (507 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 1979 Honda CB750K from Japan was powered by a 748cc SOHC inline-4 producing 73hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 230.0kg (507 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
| 1979 Honda CB750K | 1974 Kawasaki KZ400 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 748 cc | 398 cc |
| Power | 73 hp | 36 hp |
| Torque | 59.0 Nm | 32.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 230.0 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 | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure standard performance, the 1979 Honda CB750K has the edge thanks to more power (73hp 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.
About the 1979 Honda CB750K
Born in 1979, the 1979 Honda CB750K is a 748cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle producing 73hp from Honda.
Full 1979 Honda CB750K 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 →