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The 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 and 1975 Ducati 860GT 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 Ducati 860GT, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin power, delivering 65hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 210.0kg (463 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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 Ducati 860GT, hailing from Italy, by contrast offered 864cc of SOHC L-twin power, delivering 65hp at 7000rpm. Tipping the scales at 210.0kg (463 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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 Ducati 860GT | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1286 cc | 864 cc |
| Power | 120 hp | 65 hp |
| Torque | 108.0 Nm | 62.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 6 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 297.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 327.0 kg | 226.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1580 mm | 1460 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 27.0 L | 18.0 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 65hp) and a higher top speed. The 1975 Ducati 860GT, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority and offers a lighter package. For collectors, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 commands more attention with a 7/10 collectibility rating.
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 Ducati 860GT
The 1975 1975 Ducati 860GT is a 864cc twin-cylinder touring motorcycle that became one of Ducati's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1975 Ducati 860GT Profile →