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The 1974 Kawasaki Z1-A and 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 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 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 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 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 Z1-A | 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 903 cc | 903 cc |
| Power | 82 hp | 81 hp |
| Torque | 73.0 Nm | 73.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 205 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 230.0 kg | 237.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 250.0 kg | 255.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 820 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1490 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1974 Kawasaki Z1-A laid the groundwork with 82hp, while the later 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 pushed output to 81hp. 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.
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 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 →