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The 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin and 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
The 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin from Japan was powered by a 745cc DOHC twin producing 55hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 223.0kg (492 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 KZ750 Twin from Japan was powered by a 745cc DOHC twin producing 55hp at 7500rpm. Weighing 223.0kg (492 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 KZ750 Twin | 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 745 cc | 1015 cc |
| Power | 55 hp | 90 hp |
| Torque | 58.0 Nm | 82.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 223.0 kg | 240.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 240.0 kg | 260.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1470 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 KZ750 Twin laid the groundwork with 55hp, 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. Parts availability is moderate for the 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin and good for the 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 →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 →