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The 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin and 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 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 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 by contrast offered 553cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 58hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 194.0kg (428 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 by contrast offered 553cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 58hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 194.0kg (428 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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 | 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 745 cc | 553 cc |
| Power | 55 hp | 58 hp |
| Torque | 58.0 Nm | 47.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 223.0 kg | 194.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 240.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 810 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -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 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 pushed output to 58hp. Both share equal collector appeal at 4/10. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Kawasaki collection. Parts availability is moderate for the 1976 Kawasaki KZ750 Twin and good for the 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 — 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 1981 Kawasaki GPz550
The 1981 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 is a 553cc four-cylinder sport bike that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 Profile →