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The 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 and 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 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 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 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 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 KZ900 | 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 903 cc | 1286 cc |
| Power | 81 hp | 120 hp |
| Torque | 73.0 Nm | 108.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 6 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/h | 220 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 237.0 kg | 297.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 255.0 kg | 327.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 810 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1580 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 27.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 laid the groundwork with 81hp, 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 KZ900 and moderate for the 1979 Kawasaki KZ1300 — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 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 →