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 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 by contrast offered 1015cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 83hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 245.0kg (540 lbs) with a top speed of 210km/h (130 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 | 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 498 cc | 1015 cc |
| Power | 52 hp | 83 hp |
| Torque | 46.0 Nm | 80.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 3 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 210 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 183.0 kg | 245.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 198.0 kg | 265.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 820 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1395 mm | 1510 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 19.0 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 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 pushed output to 83hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 holds the edge with a 7/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection. Parts availability is moderate for the 1975 Kawasaki KH500 and good for the 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 — 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 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000
Kawasaki released the 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 in 1977 with a 1015cc DOHC inline-4 powerplant making 83hp — a definitive standard motorcycle.
Full 1977 Kawasaki KZ1000 Profile →