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The 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 and 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
The 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 from Japan was powered by a 652cc DOHC inline-4 producing 64hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 215.0kg (474 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R by contrast offered 1015cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 90hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 240.0kg (529 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 from Japan was powered by a 652cc DOHC inline-4 producing 64hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 215.0kg (474 lbs) and with a seat height of 810mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R by contrast offered 1015cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 90hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 240.0kg (529 lbs) with a top speed of 215km/h (134 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
| 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 | 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 652 cc | 1015 cc |
| Power | 64 hp | 90 hp |
| Torque | 54.0 Nm | 82.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 215.0 kg | 240.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 232.0 kg | 260.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1505 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 19.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 laid the groundwork with 64hp, while the later 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R pushed output to 90hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R holds the edge with a 8/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection.
About the 1976 Kawasaki KZ650
A standard motorcycle from 1976, the 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 delivers 64hp from its 652cc DOHC inline-4 engine.
Full 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 Profile →About the 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R
Kawasaki released the 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R in 1978 with a 1015cc DOHC inline-4 powerplant making 90hp — a definitive cafe racer.
Full 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R Profile →