VS
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 and 1975 BMW R90/6 are both iconic 1970s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 from Japan was powered by a 1286cc DOHC inline-6 producing 120hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 297.0kg (655 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1975 BMW R90/6, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 898cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 60hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 Kawasaki KZ1300 from Japan was powered by a 1286cc DOHC inline-6 producing 120hp at 8000rpm. Weighing 297.0kg (655 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1975 BMW R90/6, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 898cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 60hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 200.0kg (441 lbs) with a top speed of 190km/h (118 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 Kawasaki KZ1300 | 1975 BMW R90/6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1286 cc | 898 cc |
| Power | 120 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 108.0 Nm | 62.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 6 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/h | 190 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 297.0 kg | 200.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 327.0 kg | 215.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1580 mm | 1465 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 27.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 has the edge thanks to more power (120hp vs 60hp) and a higher top speed. The 1975 BMW R90/6, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority and offers a lighter package. Parts availability is moderate for the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 and good for the 1975 BMW R90/6 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300
Born in 1979, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 is a 1286cc six-cylinder touring motorcycle producing 120hp from Kawasaki.
Full 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 Profile →About the 1975 BMW R90/6
The 1975 1975 BMW R90/6 is a 898cc twin-cylinder touring motorcycle that became one of BMW's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1975 BMW R90/6 Profile →