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The 1975 Kawasaki KH500 and 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 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 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 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 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
| 1975 Kawasaki KH500 | 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 903 cc |
| Power | 52 hp | 81 hp |
| Torque | 46.0 Nm | 73.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 3 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 205 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 183.0 kg | 237.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 198.0 kg | 255.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 820 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1395 mm | 1490 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 18.0 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 KZ900 pushed output to 81hp. Both share equal collector appeal at 6/10. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection. Parts availability is moderate for the 1975 Kawasaki KH500 and good for the 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 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 →