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The 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin and 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 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 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 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 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 KZ750 Twin | 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 745 cc | 1286 cc |
| Power | 55 hp | 120 hp |
| Torque | 58.0 Nm | 108.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 6 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 220 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 223.0 kg | 297.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 240.0 kg | 327.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1470 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 KZ750 Twin laid the groundwork with 55hp, 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.
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 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 →