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The 1974 Kawasaki Z1-A and 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
The 1974 Kawasaki Z1-A from Japan was powered by a 903cc DOHC inline-4 producing 82hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 230.0kg (507 lbs) and with a seat height of 820mm, 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 Z1-A from Japan was powered by a 903cc DOHC inline-4 producing 82hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 230.0kg (507 lbs) and with a seat height of 820mm, 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 Z1-A | 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 903 cc | 745 cc |
| Power | 82 hp | 55 hp |
| Torque | 73.0 Nm | 58.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 230.0 kg | 223.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 250.0 kg | 240.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1974 Kawasaki Z1-A laid the groundwork with 82hp, while the later 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin pushed output to 55hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1974 Kawasaki Z1-A holds the edge with a 8/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection. Parts availability is good for the 1974 Kawasaki Z1-A and moderate for the 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1974 Kawasaki Z1-A
A standard motorcycle from 1974, the 1974 Kawasaki Z1-A delivers 82hp from its 903cc DOHC inline-4 engine.
Full 1974 Kawasaki Z1-A 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 →