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The 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 and 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 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 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 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 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 KZ900 | 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 903 cc | 553 cc |
| Power | 81 hp | 58 hp |
| Torque | 73.0 Nm | 47.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 237.0 kg | 194.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 255.0 kg | 210.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1430 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Kawasaki machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 laid the groundwork with 81hp, while the later 1981 Kawasaki GPz550 pushed output to 58hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 holds the edge with a 6/10 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 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 →