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The 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 and 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R represent two chapters in Kawasaki's storied history.
The 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 from Japan was powered by a 903cc DOHC inline-4 producing 81hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 237.0kg (522 lbs) and with a seat height of 820mm, 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 KZ900 from Japan was powered by a 903cc DOHC inline-4 producing 81hp at 8500rpm. Weighing 237.0kg (522 lbs) and with a seat height of 820mm, 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 KZ900 | 1978 Kawasaki Z1-R | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 903 cc | 1015 cc |
| Power | 81 hp | 90 hp |
| Torque | 73.0 Nm | 82.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/h | 215 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 237.0 kg | 240.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 255.0 kg | 260.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1505 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 19.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 laid the groundwork with 81hp, 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 KZ900
The 1976 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 is a 903cc four-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Kawasaki's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 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 →