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The 1976 Kawasaki KZ900 and 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 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 KZ1100 by contrast offered 1089cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 108hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 250.0kg (551 lbs) with a top speed of 225km/h (140 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 KZ1100 by contrast offered 1089cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 108hp at 8500rpm. Tipping the scales at 250.0kg (551 lbs) with a top speed of 225km/h (140 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 KZ1100 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 903 cc | 1089 cc |
| Power | 81 hp | 108 hp |
| Torque | 73.0 Nm | 92.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/h | 225 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 237.0 kg | 250.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 255.0 kg | 270.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 820 mm | 820 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1490 mm | 1530 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 20.0 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 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 pushed output to 108hp. 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 KZ1100
Introduced in 1981, the 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 features a 1089cc DOHC inline-4 engine producing 108hp, establishing itself as a notable standard motorcycle.
Full 1981 Kawasaki KZ1100 Profile →