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The 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 and 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 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 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 by contrast offered 1286cc of DOHC inline-6 power, delivering 120hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 297.0kg (655 lbs) with a top speed of 220km/h (137 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 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 by contrast offered 1286cc of DOHC inline-6 power, delivering 120hp at 8000rpm. Tipping the scales at 297.0kg (655 lbs) with a top speed of 220km/h (137 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 | 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 652 cc | 1286 cc |
| Power | 64 hp | 120 hp |
| Torque | 54.0 Nm | 108.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 6 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 220 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 215.0 kg | 297.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 232.0 kg | 327.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1580 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 27.0 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 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 pushed output to 120hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 holds the edge with a 7/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection. Parts availability is good for the 1976 Kawasaki KZ650 and moderate for the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 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 →