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The 1975 Kawasaki KH500 and 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
The 1975 Kawasaki KH500 from Japan was powered by a 498cc 2-stroke triple producing 52hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 183.0kg (403 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, 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 1975 Kawasaki KH500 from Japan was powered by a 498cc 2-stroke triple producing 52hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 183.0kg (403 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, 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
| 1975 Kawasaki KH500 | 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 745 cc |
| Power | 52 hp | 55 hp |
| Torque | 46.0 Nm | 58.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 3 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 183.0 kg | 223.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 198.0 kg | 240.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1395 mm | 1470 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1975 Kawasaki KH500 laid the groundwork with 52hp, while the later 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin pushed output to 55hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1975 Kawasaki KH500 holds the edge with a 6/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection.
About the 1975 Kawasaki KH500
The 1975 1975 Kawasaki KH500 is a 498cc triple-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1975 Kawasaki KH500 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 →